What Is Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract?
Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract comes from the fruits and leaves of the common hawthorn, a small tree belonging to the rose family. Traditionally valued in Europe for its bright red berries, hawthorn has long been used in folk preparations. Modern cosmetic labs recognized that these berries and leaves carry natural sugars, flavonoids, and mild organic acids that can soften and soothe skin, which led to their inclusion in skincare.
The extract is usually produced by drying the plant material, grinding it into a fine powder, then steeping it in a skin-safe solvent like water or glycerin. This process pulls out the beneficial compounds, after which the liquid is filtered and concentrated before being blended into cosmetic bases.
You will most often spot Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract in moisturizers, soothing masks, toners, eye creams and gentle anti-aging serums aimed at delivering light hydration and comfort to sensitive or mature skin.
Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In formulas, this botanical focuses on one key task: skin conditioning. By adding a dose of plant-based sugars and antioxidants, it helps products leave skin feeling softer, smoother and more supple while supporting a healthy-looking surface.
Who Can Use Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract
This extract is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive. Its lightweight water-glycerin base does not leave a greasy film, so even acne-prone or easily congested skin can usually tolerate it without trouble. The only group that might need extra caution is anyone with a known allergy to hawthorn or other members of the rose family, as cross-reactivity is possible.
Because the ingredient is entirely plant derived and typically processed without animal by-products, it is suitable for both vegetarians and vegans. Those following a strictly cruelty-free lifestyle should still check that the finished product and brand meet their specific ethical standards.
No research shows that topical Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract poses a risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in standard cosmetic amounts. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified healthcare professional just to be safe.
The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used morning or night, although daily sun protection remains important for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product.
- Allergic contact dermatitis marked by redness, itching or swelling
- Mild stinging or burning sensation on sensitive or compromised skin
- Formation of small red bumps or a localized rash
- Rare hives or welts in individuals highly reactive to botanical extracts
If any of these reactions appear, stop using the product immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low)
Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract is water or glycerin based and contains almost no heavy oils or waxes that can clog pores. Its primary components are light sugars, organic acids and flavonoids that rinse cleanly from skin. Because of this it sits at the bottom of the comedogenic scale and is generally unlikely to trigger blackheads or breakouts.
Suitable for acne-prone skin.
One thing to keep in mind is the formula as a whole. If the product also includes richer plant butters or silicones those additional ingredients, not the hawthorn extract itself, could raise the pore-clogging risk.
Summary
Crataegus Monogyna Fruit/Leaf Extract is mainly a skin conditioning agent that lends light hydration, soothing comfort and a touch of antioxidant support. It achieves this through naturally occurring plant sugars that bind water, mild acids that smooth the surface and flavonoids that help neutralize everyday oxidative stress.
You will not find it topping popularity charts like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, yet a growing number of gentle moisturizers and calming toners now tap into its softening perks.
Topically it is considered safe for most users with only rare reports of irritation or allergic response. As with any new cosmetic ingredient it is wise to do a quick patch test before full use, especially if you have sensitive or reactive skin.