Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture 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
Share:
Inside this article:

All information on this page is verified using The Personal Care Products Council's (PCPC) INCI database. Our ingredient analyses are based exclusively on PCPC's technical data to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract?

Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract comes from the chrysanthemum plant, a flower long valued in Asia for its soothing and skin-loving qualities. Instead of harvesting whole plants, scientists take a tiny piece of chrysanthemum tissue and grow it in a sterile lab dish. This mass of undifferentiated cells is called a callus. The callus cells are then encouraged to multiply in a nutrient-rich medium, after which the culture is filtered and concentrated to create the final extract. Producing the ingredient in a lab keeps it free from pesticides and seasonal changes, and it also reduces the environmental footprint since no large fields are needed.

Chemically, the extract is rich in naturally occurring antioxidants such as flavonoids and phenolic acids that help defend the plant from stress in nature and can provide similar protection when applied to skin. You will most often find Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract in products focused on maintaining a youthful, healthy complexion: think lightweight serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks and soothing after-sun gels. It can also appear in eye creams and other targeted treatments where gentle antioxidant support is desired.

Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical ingredient is prized for one clear job that makes a real difference in everyday skincare products.

As an antioxidant, Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV light, pollution and normal metabolism. By curbing these unstable molecules, the extract can limit the look of premature aging such as dullness, fine lines and uneven tone. Including it in a formula supports the stability of other delicate ingredients and can keep the product itself fresher for longer, making it a valuable partner in modern anti-aging and protective skincare.

Who Can Use Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract

This antioxidant fits smoothly into routines for dry, oily, combination and even sensitive skin because it is light, non-greasy and free of common irritants. People with extremely reactive skin or a known allergy to plants in the daisy family should be a little more cautious, but for most users the extract is gentle enough for daily use.

The ingredient is entirely plant derived and grown in a controlled lab environment with no animal inputs, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished product also meets their standards.

No data suggest heightened risk for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically at cosmetic levels. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with their doctor before adding new skincare to their routine.

Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, and it can actually complement daytime formulas by helping to fend off free radicals created by UV exposure.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract vary from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild stinging or redness on application
  • Dry or tight feeling if used in a very high concentration without adequate moisturizers
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to ragweed, daisies or other Asteraceae plants
  • Breakouts in exceptionally acne-prone skin when paired with a comedogenic base formula
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

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

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5. Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract is typically supplied as a water-based solution with virtually no pore-clogging oils, waxes or heavy emollients. Its antioxidant molecules are lightweight and stay on the skin surface rather than building up inside pores, so the risk of blockage is minimal. This makes the extract generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. Only the final formula’s other ingredients are likely to influence comedogenicity.

Summary

Chrysanthemum Indicum Callus Culture Extract delivers plant-powered antioxidant protection that helps neutralise free radicals, supports overall skin resilience and keeps formulas themselves more stable. By growing the cells in a lab the ingredient stays consistent, clean and eco-friendly.

While chrysanthemum teas are common the callus culture extract is still a niche addition in skincare, appearing mainly in forward-thinking serums masks and moisturisers rather than on every drugstore shelf. Its safety profile is strong for most users, with low odds of irritation outside of daisy-family allergies. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with it.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search