What Is Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract?
Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract is a botanical ingredient sourced from the white, springtime blossoms of the common hawthorn tree that grows across Europe, North Africa and Western Asia. The flowers are rich in gentle fruit acids, natural sugars and antioxidant flavonoids like vitexin, which help defend the plant against environmental stress. Traditional herbal practices used hawthorn infusions to soothe and tone the skin, and this age-old use paved the way for its adoption in modern beauty formulas.
The extract is produced by harvesting fresh hawthorn flowers at peak bloom, rinsing them, then macerating them in a water or glycerin-based solvent. This solution draws out the flower’s active compounds over several hours before it is filtered and concentrated. The resulting liquid or powder is standardized for consistent quality and then blended into skin-care bases.
You can find Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract in moisturizers, calming face masks, anti-aging serums, after-sun lotions and products aimed at sensitive or redness-prone skin where a gentle conditioning boost is needed.
Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetics this ingredient acts as a skin-conditioning agent, helping to soften the skin surface, support moisture retention and leave the complexion feeling smooth and comfortable. Its natural antioxidants add a light layer of protection against daily environmental stress, which can make skin look tired or dull.
Who Can Use Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract
This flower extract is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is mild and mainly serves to condition and soothe. Very reactive or allergy-prone users should still approach with care only because any botanical can carry natural allergens.
The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Cruelty-free status will depend on the overall policy of the finished brand.
No data suggests that topical Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in standard cosmetic concentrations. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products just to be safe.
The extract is not known to increase photosensitivity so it can be used day or night though daily sunscreen is always recommended as part of a complete routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential effects but they are uncommon when the ingredient is used correctly in a professionally formulated product.
Skin irritation such as mild redness or stinging
Allergic contact dermatitis marked by itching or rash
Swelling or hives in individuals sensitive to hawthorn or related plants
If any discomfort or visible reaction occurs stop use immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare provider or dermatologist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0-1 out of 5. Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract is a water based botanical with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could lodge in pores. Its main constituents are flavonoids sugars and mild organic acids, all of which rinse away easily and do not form occlusive films, so the risk of clogging is very low.
Generally suitable for acne-prone skin because it is considered non clogging.
Bear in mind that the overall formulation matters; richer oils or silicones paired with the extract could influence how pore friendly the final product is.
Summary
Crataegus Monogyna Flower Extract conditions the skin by delivering a blend of soothing antioxidants, gentle acids and natural sugars that soften, hydrate and offer light environmental protection. It is gaining slow but steady popularity in calming creams serums and masks aimed at sensitive or redness prone complexions.
Safety data supports topical use for most people with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Even so it is wise to patch test any new product that features this ingredient to make sure your skin agrees with it.