What Is Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract comes from the flowers, leaves and stems of Clematis vitalba, a climbing vine native to Europe and parts of Asia. The plant is rich in natural compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and small amounts of saponins, all of which can help soothe and soften skin. Traditional herbalists once used the vine in topical preparations aimed at calming minor skin discomfort, and this folk use drew the attention of modern formulators looking for gentle botanical ingredients.
To create the extract, freshly harvested plant parts are cleaned, finely milled then soaked in a mixture of water and safe cosmetic solvents. The liquid is filtered to remove solids and the resulting solution is concentrated to produce a stable extract. This careful process keeps the beneficial plant molecules intact while removing unwanted residues.
Today you will most often spot Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract in moisturizing creams, calming face masks, after-sun lotions and anti-aging serums where a soothing plant boost is welcome.
Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
The extract brings a single yet valuable role to a formula.
Skin conditioning: helps skin feel soft, comfortable and balanced by lightly hydrating the surface and supporting a smooth texture, making the overall product more pleasant to apply and wear.
Who Can Use Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
This gentle botanical suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it delivers lightweight hydration without heavy oils or known irritants. It tends to be well tolerated by acne-prone skin too since it does not clog pores or leave a greasy film.
The extract is entirely plant derived so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. No animal by-products are used in the harvesting or extraction process.
Current safety data indicate no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used in a properly formulated topical product, yet this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask a doctor before introducing new skincare just to be safe.
Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract does not contain known photo-sensitising molecules, so it can be worn during the day without increasing sun sensitivity. Of course a broad-spectrum sunscreen remains important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects but most users will experience none of these provided the finished product has been correctly formulated.
- Mild redness or stinging in very reactive skin
- Contact dermatitis in people allergic to plants of the Ranunculaceae family
- Extra irritation if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
- Eye discomfort if the product accidentally gets into the eyes
If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1/5. The extract is largely water based with minimal oils or waxy fractions, so it does not linger inside pores or add to surface oil. Used at low concentrations it absorbs quickly and leaves skin feeling fresh rather than coated.
This low score means the ingredient is considered safe for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
Keep in mind overall formula matters; a thick cream containing the extract plus heavy occlusives could still clog pores even though the extract itself is non-comedogenic.
Summary
Clematis Vitalba Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a gentle botanical skin conditioner that lends light hydration and a softer touch thanks to naturally occurring flavonoids phenolic acids and mild saponins. It works behind the scenes to make finished products feel smoother and more comforting.
While not as famous as hyaluronic acid or vitamin C it has a steady following among brands that prioritize plant based soothing ingredients, so you will see it pop up in targeted calming ranges more than in mass market lines.
Overall safety is high with only occasional irritation in those sensitive to the buttercup family. Still, a quick patch test is the easiest way to confirm personal compatibility before adding any new product to your routine.