Chamomilla Vulgaris 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 24, 2025
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All information on this page is verified using publicly available nomenclature standards and reference materials from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) and the European Commission's CosIng database. Our analyses are based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower?

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower is the dried crushed blossom of Chamomilla vulgaris, a daisy-like plant in the Asteraceae family. The petals and flower heads are packed with soothing essential oils such as bisabolol and chamazulene along with natural sugars and flavonoids that help calm and soften skin. People have brewed chamomile tea for centuries to ease irritation and promote relaxation, and that same gentle reputation led formulators to explore its value in creams and lotions. To create the cosmetic grade ingredient the flowers are harvested at full bloom, air-dried to lock in their active compounds, then milled into a fine powder or steeped to produce an extract that blends smoothly into modern products. Today you will spot Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower in masks, after-sun gels, baby lotions, hydrating serums and any formula aimed at comforting sensitive or stressed skin.

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower brings a single but important benefit to personal care formulas.

As a skin-conditioning agent it helps the surface of the skin feel softer and look more even. The natural oils and sugars coat the outer layer, reducing rough patches and boosting suppleness while the flavonoids offer a mild soothing effect that can take the sting out of dryness or minor redness.

Who Can Use Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower

Because Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower is chiefly a soothing skin conditioner it suits most skin types, from dry and sensitive to balanced and oily. Its lightweight nature means it will not weigh down oil-prone complexions and its calming qualities can bring relief to tight or reactive skin. Those with very rare allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family should proceed with caution since cross-reactivity is possible.

The ingredient is plant derived and typically processed without animal by-products so it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans unless a specific formula contains added animal-based ingredients.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women usually tolerate topical chamomile well but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should discuss new skincare products with a healthcare professional to be safe.

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used in both day and night routines without increasing sun-related risks.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower differ from person to person. The following are potential side effects that could occur in rare cases; most users will experience none of these when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to ragweed or other Asteraceae plants
  • Localized redness or stinging on compromised or highly reactive skin
  • Itchy rash or hives if an immune response is triggered
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any unwanted reaction appears discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower contains mostly water soluble flavonoids, light polysaccharides and very small amounts of essential oil so it does not leave an occlusive film that could trap sebum or debris in pores. Because formulas usually include it at low concentrations as an extract or fine powder the chance of it clogging pores is virtually nil. This makes it suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts. Products that pair Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower with heavier oils or waxes may have a different overall pore clogging risk, but the flower component itself remains non-comedogenic.

Summary

Chamomilla Vulgaris Flower serves mainly as a skin conditioning agent, helping skin feel softer, look smoother and calm minor redness thanks to its blend of bisabolol, chamazulene and natural sugars. It earns steady popularity in after-sun gels, baby lotions and sensitive skin serums where a gentle touch is valued, though it is not as hyped as trend driven botanicals like centella or bakuchiol.

Topical use is generally considered very safe with low irritation potential aside from rare Asteraceae allergies. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is smart to patch test a small area first to rule out personal sensitivities before applying a full-size product to the face or body.

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