Commelina Communis Flower 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 Commelina Communis Flower Extract?

Commelina Communis Flower Extract comes from the bright blue blooms of the Commelina communis plant, also known as the Asiatic dayflower. This small field plant thrives across East Asia where it has been gathered for centuries for natural dye and folk skincare. The flowers are rich in water-binding sugars, gentle flavonoids and small amounts of protective minerals, all of which make the extract friendly to skin.

To create the cosmetic ingredient, freshly picked flowers are steeped in a water-glycerin or water-alcohol bath, then filtered to remove solids. The liquid is concentrated under low heat and carefully refined so the delicate skin-loving molecules stay intact. The result is a clear to pale-blue fluid that slips easily into modern formulations.

Because the extract attracts and holds moisture, brands add it to hydrating masks, dewy facial mists, lightweight lotions, after-sun gels, soothing toners and anti-aging creams that aim to smooth fine lines through plumping hydration.

Commelina Communis Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When included in a formula this flower extract mainly works in two helpful ways:

  • Humectant: Draws water from the environment and the deeper layers of the skin to the surface, boosting instant and long-lasting hydration. This leaves the complexion looking fresher and feeling softer.
  • Skin Conditioning: Softens, soothes and improves the general feel of the skin by topping up moisture and providing a light calming effect, which can make the rest of the product feel more comfortable and luxurious on application.

Who Can Use Commelina Communis Flower Extract

This flower extract is generally suitable for all skin types. Dry and dehydrated complexions gain extra moisture, normal and combination skin enjoy a balanced feel and even oily or blemish-prone skin can benefit because the ingredient is lightweight and non-pore clogging. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to the low irritation profile, though very reactive users should still introduce it gradually.

Because the extract comes entirely from a plant and no animal-derived substances are used in standard production, it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

There is no specific evidence suggesting issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically at common cosmetic concentrations. This is not medical advice, so anyone who is pregnant or nursing should discuss any new skincare product with a qualified healthcare professional to be extra safe.

The extract is not known to increase photosensitivity and can be used in both day and night routines without raising the risk of sun-related irritation.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Commelina Communis Flower Extract can differ. The following points list potential side effects that could occur, though most people will not experience them when using a well-formulated product.

  • Mild redness or warmth
  • Transient stinging on very dry or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in rare cases for those sensitised to the flower or its family
  • Interaction with other actives or preservatives leading to unexpected irritation

If any discomfort, persistent redness or rash develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

Commelina Communis Flower Extract is water based, light and contains mainly small humectant molecules that do not linger in pores or build up on the skin’s surface. It lacks heavy oils, waxes or fatty acids that normally drive comedogenic activity, which is why it earns the lowest possible score.

This makes the extract suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin types. It can be used in leave-on or rinse-off formulas without an added risk of clogged pores.

Formulators often pair it with similarly gentle ingredients like aloe juice or low-weight hyaluronic acid to keep the entire product friendly to congested skin.

Summary

Commelina Communis Flower Extract acts as a humectant and skin-conditioning agent. It pulls moisture into the outer layers of the skin and locks it there, giving a smoother feel and a fresher look. The mild flavonoids inside the flower deliver a soft soothing touch that calms minor tightness.

The ingredient is not yet a headline star but it is quietly gaining traction in hydrating mists, calming toners and lightweight gels, especially in K-beauty and indie plant-forward lines.

Current data and in-market use suggest the extract is safe for all skin types with a very low risk of irritation or pore blockage. As with any new skincare ingredient it is wise to perform a small patch test first to make sure your individual skin agrees with it.

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