What Is Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract?
Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract is a plant-based ingredient made from the tiny seeds of the amaranth plant, a flowering annual long valued as a food staple by Mesoamerican cultures. The seeds are naturally rich in proteins, peptides, essential fatty acids like linoleic acid, the lipid squalene, and a variety of polyphenols that act as antioxidants. Interest in these nutrients pushed the beauty industry to explore the seed as a skin-friendly active.
To create the extract, cleaned seeds are usually milled, then soaked in a water- or glycerin-based solution that draws out the beneficial compounds. The liquid is filtered and concentrated, leaving a clear or slightly amber extract that blends easily with water or oil phases in formulas.
Because of its balanced mix of moisture-binders, soothing lipids and protective antioxidants, Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract shows up in masks, anti aging serums, daily moisturizers, after-sun lotions, body butters, hand creams and even hair conditioners that aim to smooth the cuticle and add shine.
Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare and haircare formulas this multitasking extract can perform several helpful roles:
- Antioxidant: Neutralizes environmental free radicals, helping limit the look of premature aging caused by pollution and UV exposure
- Humectant: Attracts water to the skin surface so it feels hydrated, plump and comfortable
- Skin Conditioning: Softens and smooths rough or flaky areas, improving overall texture and suppleness
- Emollient: Supplies lightweight oils that fill tiny gaps between skin cells, boosting elasticity and delivering a soft silky finish
- Skin Protecting: Forms a breathable shield that reduces moisture loss and helps defend against everyday irritants like wind and cleanser residue
Who Can Use Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract
This gentle seed extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types, including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin. Its lightweight lipids and water-binding sugars offer moisture without a greasy feel so even acne-prone or easily clogged skin usually does well with it. Because it is mild and non-sensitizing there are no known groups of skin types that need to avoid it outright.
Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract is completely plant derived, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are used in harvesting or processing the seeds.
Current research shows no specific risks linked to topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a quick chat with a healthcare professional before introducing a new cosmetic product, just to be safe.
The extract does not increase photosensitivity so there is no special need to restrict daytime use. Of course daily sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to any skincare ingredient can vary from person to person. The following are potential, though uncommon, side effects that might occur if a product containing Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract is used improperly or if an individual has an unknown sensitivity. Most users will not experience these issues when the ingredient is formulated and applied as intended.
- Mild redness or itching in those with a seed or grain allergy
- Transient stinging on very compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
- Rare contact dermatitis if combined with other irritants in a formula
If irritation or any other adverse reaction develops discontinue use and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 (low). The extract is mostly made up of small, non-occlusive molecules like peptides, sugars and lightweight lipids such as squalene and linoleic acid. These absorb quickly and leave little residue, so they are unlikely to block pores. Only a trace of heavier waxes is present, keeping the overall clogging potential minimal. Because of this low score, products featuring Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract are generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts. Very oily skins could still react to a formula that pairs the extract with thick butters or silicones, but the seed extract itself is not the culprit.
Summary
Amaranthus Hypochondriacus Seed Extract works as an antioxidant, humectant, skin conditioner, emollient and skin protector. Its polyphenols help neutralize free radicals, the sugars pull in water for lasting hydration, the lightweight oils smooth rough texture, and the natural film it forms slows moisture loss while cushioning the skin surface.
The ingredient is not yet as mainstream as classics like aloe or hyaluronic acid, but its plant-based profile and multitasking benefits are gaining attention in clean beauty circles and premium moisturizers.
Current data points to a very safe topical profile with low irritation and low comedogenicity. As with any new skincare addition, patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.