Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract: 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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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 Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract?

Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract comes from Chrysanthellum americanum, a small flowering herb in the daisy family that thrives in the savannas of Central and South America. The whole plant is harvested, dried then steeped in a mix of water and gentle solvents to pull out its useful components. Those components include flavonoids and saponins, natural molecules known for helping the skin feel calm and balanced. For centuries local communities used the plant in traditional skin applications, and modern formulators took note of its soothing reputation in the 1990s. Today the extract is filtered, concentrated and standardized to ensure a consistent profile before it is added to products. You will most often spot it in calming face masks, daily moisturizers, after-sun lotions, anti-aging serums and targeted treatments meant to reduce the look of redness.

Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In cosmetics this plant extract serves one main purpose

As a skin-conditioning agent it helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin while supporting a healthy moisture balance. Formulators use it to give products a comforting feel and to help reduce visible signs of stress such as dryness or temporary redness.

Who Can Use Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract

This extract is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its soothing profile makes it particularly attractive to sensitive or redness-prone skin, while the lightweight finish prevents it from feeling heavy on oily complexions. At this time there is no evidence suggesting it is unsuitable for any specific skin type.

Because the ingredient is derived entirely from a plant and no animal derivatives or by-products are involved in its production, it is generally considered appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

Current research does not flag Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract as unsafe for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. That said this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should confirm with a healthcare professional before starting any new skincare product.

The extract does not increase photosensitivity so users do not need to take extra sun precautions beyond the usual daily sunscreen habit.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract can vary from person to person. The following points outline possible side effects, though most people will not encounter them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Temporary dryness or tightness
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to members of the daisy family
  • Rare rash or hives if the user has an existing plant allergy

If any of these reactions occur discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract is primarily made of water-soluble flavonoids and saponins, compounds that do not clog pores. It contains very little oil or wax so the chance of it blocking follicles is low. This makes it generally suitable for people who break out easily. Keep in mind that overall product design matters; if the extract is blended with heavy butters or rich oils the final formula could still feel greasy or pore-clogging.

Summary

Chrysanthellum Americanum Extract is valued for conditioning the skin. Its natural flavonoids and saponins help calm visible redness, soften rough spots and support a balanced moisture feel. While it is not a headline ingredient like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid, it has a quiet following among formulators who focus on soothing products for sensitive skin.

Safety studies and long consumer use show a low risk of irritation or pore clogging in most users, though anyone can react to any plant ingredient. As with any new skincare item, patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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