Crataegus Monogyna Fruit: 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 Crataegus Monogyna Fruit?

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit comes from the common hawthorn, a small tree native to Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. The bright red berries are rich in natural sugars, flavonoids, organic acids and small amounts of vitamins, all of which give the fruit its skin friendly profile. Hawthorn has been part of folk remedies and food traditions for centuries, and its reputation for soothing and protecting skin led formulators to explore it for topical use. To create the cosmetic grade ingredient the ripe berries are harvested, cleaned, and either cold pressed to obtain a concentrate or gently dried and milled into a fine powder. These extracts are then standardized to keep their antioxidant compounds stable before they are blended into products. You will most often spot Crataegus Monogyna Fruit in moisturizers, overnight masks, anti aging serums and calming lotions where a boost of skin comfort is desired.

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit is valued for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps keep skin soft, smooth and comfortable by supporting moisture balance and lending a mild soothing effect.

Who Can Use Crataegus Monogyna Fruit

This fruit extract is gentle enough for nearly all skin types. Dry and normal skin benefit from its moisture supporting qualities while combination and sensitive skin appreciate its calming nature. Oily or acne prone skin can also use it because it does not clog pores and has a light feel. As a plant based ingredient it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians since no animal parts or by products are involved in its harvest or processing.

Current research shows no specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically in standard cosmetic amounts. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should ask their doctor before adding a new product to the routine.

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit does not cause photosensitivity so it can be worn day or night without raising the risk of sun related irritation. It is also odor neutral and has no known interactions with common sunscreen filters, fragrances or colorants, making it easy to layer within most skincare and makeup routines.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Crataegus Monogyna Fruit vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions that could occur, though they are uncommon when the ingredient is formulated correctly and used as directed.

  • Mild redness or irritation
  • Itching or stinging on application
  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Rare swelling or hives in highly sensitive individuals
  • Increased sensitivity when layered with strong exfoliating acids or retinoids

If you notice any of these effects while using a product that contains Crataegus Monogyna Fruit stop use and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit is typically supplied as a water-based extract or a finely milled powder with very low oil content. Because it lacks heavy lipids that can block pores it earns the lowest spot on the comedogenic scale. Its light texture rinses clean, does not form an occlusive film and has no record of worsening blackheads or whiteheads. This makes it a safe choice for people who are prone to acne or regular breakouts.

Formulators often pair the extract with oil-free gels, hydrating serums and calming lotions, so the finished product is unlikely to alter the overall pore-clogging profile of a routine.

Summary

Crataegus Monogyna Fruit works mainly as a skin-conditioning agent. The natural sugars help draw moisture toward the surface, flavonoids deliver mild antioxidant support and organic acids offer a subtle soothing effect that leaves skin feeling soft and comfortable. Together these actions help improve overall smoothness and reduce the look of temporary redness.

Although hawthorn berries are well known in herbal circles the cosmetic-grade extract is still a niche ingredient compared with bigger plant stars like green tea or aloe. You will spot it most often in boutique moisturizers and overnight masks aimed at sensitive or dry skin.

Topical use is considered low risk with only rare reports of irritation. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test before full-face use to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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