Tilia Cordata Flower: What Is It, Cosmetic Uses, Benefits & Side Effects

Curious about this ingredient? In this article we're explaining exactly what it is and why it's used within cosmetic formulations.
Updated on: June 30, 2025
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We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Tilia Cordata Flower?

Tilia Cordata Flower refers to the dried blossoms of the small-leaved linden tree, a species native to Europe and parts of Asia that has long been valued for its soft fragrance and soothing qualities. Chemically the flowers are rich in flavonoids, gentle sugars and trace essential oils, compounds that help attract and hold water at the skin’s surface. Historic records show linden tea and floral baths were popular in medieval spas for calming irritated skin, which eventually led formulators to adapt the extract for creams and lotions. To create the cosmetic ingredient today the harvested flowers are carefully dried, milled and then either steeped in a water-or-glycerin mix or processed into a fine powder. The resulting extract or powder is filtered, standardized for consistent flavonoid content and added to a wide range of leave-on and rinse-off products including moisturizers, sheet masks, anti-aging serums, soothing toners and after-sun gels.

Tilia Cordata Flower’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When used in skin care formulas Tilia Cordata Flower serves one main role: skin conditioning. By supplying natural sugars and flavonoids it helps boost moisture levels, leaving skin softer and more comfortable. Its mild antioxidant properties support the skin’s own barrier, which can enhance the look of smoothness and promote a calm, refreshed complexion.

Who Can Use Tilia Cordata Flower

Tilia Cordata Flower suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive skin because its sugars and flavonoids hydrate without adding oil or strong actives. Oily or acne-prone skin can also tolerate it well since the extract is lightweight and non-greasy, though individuals who know they react to linden pollen should proceed cautiously.

The ingredient is plant sourced with no animal derivatives or by-products so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

No specific data suggest risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when Tilia Cordata Flower is applied topically, yet research is limited. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should ask a healthcare professional before adding new products that contain the extract.

The flower does not increase photosensitivity and can be used day or night. It is also compatible with common actives like niacinamide, ceramides and gentle exfoliating acids.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Tilia Cordata Flower vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur even though they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Redness or flushing
  • Mild itching or stinging
  • Swelling in individuals with linden or pollen allergies

If any of these reactions appear stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 out of 5. Tilia Cordata Flower is typically delivered in water or glycerin based extracts that contain virtually no pore clogging lipids. Its key components are light flavonoids and sugars that dissolve in water rather than oil, so they do not sit inside pores or thicken sebum. Because of this it is generally safe for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. As always the finished product’s overall formula can affect pore clogging potential, but the flower extract itself is considered non-comedogenic.

Summary

Tilia Cordata Flower is mainly used as a skin conditioning agent that hydrates, soothes and offers a gentle antioxidant boost. It does this through naturally occurring sugars that hold water on the skin surface and flavonoids that help calm irritation. While it is not among the trendiest botanical additives, it shows up quietly in a range of moisturizers, toners and after sun products thanks to its mild profile and pleasant heritage.

Topical safety data are favorable, serious reactions are rare and the ingredient rates a zero for comedogenicity. Even so skin can be unpredictable, so performing a small patch test with any new product containing Tilia Cordata Flower is a sensible step.

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