Commiphora Gileadensis 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 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 Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract?

Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract is derived from the blossoms of the Balm of Gilead tree, a small desert shrub that belongs to the Burseraceae family. The flowers are valued for their aromatic resins and contain a blend of terpenoids, flavonoids and natural oils that lend soothing qualities to skin-care formulas. The tree itself has a long history in perfumery and traditional beauty rituals across the Middle East, where its fragrant resin was prized for skin pampering and wound care. Modern cosmetic labs obtain the extract by gently drying the flowers, then using food-grade solvents or eco-friendly supercritical CO2 to pull out the active compounds. After filtration and standardization the resulting liquid or powdered extract is added to products such as hydrating serums, anti-aging creams, calming masks, after-sun gels and multi-purpose balms.

Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is primarily classified as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps maintain or improve the appearance and feel of skin. When blended into a formula it can soften rough patches, support the skin’s natural barrier, provide a light soothing sensation and leave the surface feeling smooth and supple.

Who Can Use Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract

This extract is generally suitable for most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and mature skin. Its light conditioning profile can also work for sensitive skin because it tends to calm rather than tingle. Very oily or acne-prone users can still try it, yet may prefer formulas where the extract is paired with non-comedogenic carriers to avoid a heavy feel.

Because the ingredient is derived solely from plant flowers and no animal by-products are involved during standard extraction, it fits the needs of both vegetarians and vegans.

Current data show no specific hazards for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used topically in the low concentrations common to cosmetics. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should clear any skincare routine with a qualified health professional first.

Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, so daytime use followed by regular sunscreen should be all that is required. People with a known allergy to balsam or similar aromatic resins may want to be cautious, as cross-reactivity can occur in rare cases.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Skin irritation such as mild redness or tingling
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to resinous botanicals
  • Itchiness or hives triggered by fragrance compounds naturally present in the flower
  • Increased sensitivity if layered with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids

If any of these effects appear stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5. Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract is mostly composed of lightweight aromatics and terpenoid fractions that do not linger in pores or solidify like heavier plant butters. It is typically included at low concentrations for skin conditioning rather than as a major oil phase, which further reduces the chance of clogging. Most acne-prone users should tolerate it well, though product texture and the other lipids in the formula will ultimately sway the pore-clogging potential. If you are especially prone to breakouts choose formulations that pair the extract with non-comedogenic carriers and low occlusive load. No specific data suggest the extract itself drives comedones.

At present there is limited independent research measuring its exact comedogenic index on human subjects, so the rating is based on its chemical profile and reported user experience. Always monitor how your own skin responds, especially if multiple rich ingredients are layered.

Summary

Commiphora Gileadensis Flower Extract acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that softens surface texture, supports the moisture barrier and lends a subtle soothing feel thanks to its blend of terpenoids, flavonoids and natural aromatic oils. While it has centuries of traditional use, it is still a niche ingredient in modern skin care, showing up most often in boutique serums, after-sun gels and artisanal balms rather than mass-market lines.

Current evidence points to a high margin of safety when the extract is used in the low percentages typical of cosmetics, with irritation or allergy remaining rare. As with any new product patch testing on a small area first is a smart step to ensure your skin agrees with the full formula.

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