Clematis Alpina Callus 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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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 Clematis Alpina Callus Extract?

Clematis Alpina Callus Extract comes from the alpine clematis, a flowering vine native to the mountainous regions of Europe. Instead of harvesting whole plants, scientists take a tiny sample of plant tissue and grow it in a controlled lab environment, forming a mass of undifferentiated cells called a callus. This method is sustainable because it protects wild populations and lets formulators obtain a pure, consistent material year-round.

The callus cells are rich in protective molecules the plant naturally produces to survive strong sunlight, wind and cold. These include phenolic compounds and flavonoids that act as antioxidants. Once the callus has grown, the cells are broken down and the beneficial components are extracted, filtered and standardized for use in skincare.

The ingredient first gained traction in the early 2010s when plant stem cell technology became popular for eco-friendly active ingredients. Because the lab process avoids seasonal changes and soil pollutants, brands quickly adopted Clematis Alpina Callus Extract for high-end anti-aging and soothing formulas.

You will most often find it in serums, moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams and protective day creams aimed at defending skin from environmental stress.

Clematis Alpina Callus Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical active supports skin health in two main ways:

  • Antioxidant: The extract helps neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution. By limiting oxidative stress it can reduce the look of dullness and help maintain a more even, youthful skin tone.
  • Skin protecting: Its blend of protective phytochemicals supports the skin barrier, helping it retain moisture and stay resilient against daily aggressors such as wind or temperature swings. Regular use can leave skin feeling calmer and better hydrated.

Who Can Use Clematis Alpina Callus Extract

This gentle botanical suits most skin types, including dry, combination, oily and sensitive skin, because it is lightweight and non comedogenic. People prone to redness often appreciate its calming nature. Those with extremely reactive or allergy-prone skin should still review the full ingredient list of a finished product to rule out other possible triggers.

The extract is 100% plant derived with no animal byproducts or processing aids, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

No specific concerns have been reported for pregnant or breastfeeding women. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show any skincare product they plan to use to their doctor to be on the safe side.

The ingredient does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. In fact its antioxidant content can help defend against photo damage, though daily sunscreen is still essential.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Clematis Alpina Callus Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that could occur even though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and applied.

  • Temporary redness or warm sensation
  • Mild itching or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to plants in the Ranunculaceae family
  • Interaction with broken or compromised skin that may lead to irritation

If any of these reactions occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1. Clematis Alpina Callus Extract is water soluble and used in very low percentages, so it does not leave an oily residue that could block pores. Current literature and product reports show no link between this extract and increased comedones.

Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.

As with any ingredient, the final product’s full formula matters; heavy oils, waxes or silicones paired with the extract could still cause congestion even though the extract itself is non comedogenic.

Summary

Clematis Alpina Callus Extract delivers two main benefits: it scavenges free radicals thanks to its phenolic and flavonoid content and it supports the skin barrier, helping skin stay calm, hydrated and resilient against environmental stress.

The extract enjoys modest popularity; you will mainly see it in mid to high tier serums, creams and sheet masks that focus on natural actives rather than in mass market lines.

Overall it is considered safe for routine use with only rare reports of irritation or allergy, especially for those sensitive to the Ranunculaceae family. Whenever introducing a new product that contains this extract do a simple patch test first to rule out personal sensitivities.

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