Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture 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
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract?

Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract is obtained from the cultured placental tissue of the cucumber plant. The phytoplacenta, which is the part that nourishes the developing seed, is rich in peptides, amino acids, minerals and natural sugars. When grown under controlled laboratory conditions the tissue produces a concentrated broth packed with these skin-friendly molecules.

The idea of using plant placenta material in beauty care took hold in the early 2000s as brands searched for vegan alternatives to animal placenta extracts. Advances in plant cell culture made it possible to grow small samples in nutrient media, harvest the active compounds without harming the plant and deliver them in a stable cosmetic ingredient.

Manufacturing begins with sterilized slices of cucumber ovary tissue placed in a growth medium. Over several weeks the cells multiply and release bioactive substances into the liquid. The culture is then filtered, purified and sometimes lyophilized to create a powder or fluid extract suitable for formulations.

Because it hydrates, soothes and helps shield the skin this extract appears in a wide range of products such as lightweight moisturizers, anti-aging serums, sheet masks, after-sun gels, eye creams and calming sprays.

Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

When added to a formula this ingredient can support skin health in several ways:

  • Humectant – draws moisture from the environment and binds it to the skin surface helping maintain a plump comfortable feel throughout the day
  • Skin Conditioning – supplies peptides and sugars that soften rough texture improve suppleness and give skin a smoother look
  • Skin Protecting – forms a light shield that reduces moisture loss and helps defend against daily environmental stress keeping the complexion calm and balanced

Who Can Use Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract

This gentle plant derived extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types. Dry and mature skin can benefit from its water binding ability while normal and combination types appreciate the light non greasy feel. Oily or acne prone users usually do fine with it because the ingredient itself is non occlusive and has a very low likelihood of clogging pores, though the overall formula it is blended into still matters. Sensitive skin often welcomes the calming sugars and minerals, but anyone with a known cucumber allergy should steer clear.

Because the material is grown entirely from cucumber cells in a lab environment it contains no animal components, making it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No studies suggest problems for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice so anyone who is expecting or nursing should have their doctor look over the full product ingredient list to stay on the safe side.

The extract is not known to increase photosensitivity and can be worn in daytime routines without special sun precautions beyond the normal recommendation to apply sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract vary from person to person. The issues listed below are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used at typical cosmetic levels and produced under good manufacturing practices.

  • Skin irritation such as mild stinging or burning
  • Transient redness or flushing
  • Itching or a tight uncomfortable feel
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to cucumber or plant proteins
  • Watery eyes if the product migrates too close to the lash line

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

This extract is water based and contains virtually no fats or heavy waxes that could sit in pores so it receives the lowest possible score on the comedogenic scale. Laboratory data and finished product reviews rarely link it to clogged pores or acne flare-ups.

Suitable for people who are prone to breakouts.

Keep in mind that the overall formula also matters. If the extract is blended with rich oils or thick silicones the final product could still feel heavy on very oily skin.

Summary

Cucumis Sativus Phtyoplacenta Culture Extract acts as a humectant skin conditioner and skin protectant. Its natural sugars and amino acids pull moisture into the outer layer while peptides and minerals smooth texture and support the skin barrier. The light film it leaves behind slows water loss which helps the complexion stay soft and calm.

The ingredient sits in a small but growing category of plant cell culture actives. It is not as mainstream as classic cucumber extract yet formulators looking for vegan science-backed options are using it more often in serums masks and soothing gels.

Topical safety is considered very high with only rare reports of irritation in those allergic to cucumber. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to run a quick patch test when trying a fresh product to check for personal sensitivities.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search