Dasiphora Fruticosa 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 27, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

We verify all information on this page using publicly available nomenclature standards from The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), the European Commission's CosIng database and documentation provided directly by ingredient manufacturers. Our analysis is based on technical data from these sources to ensure accuracy and reliability.

What Is Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract?

Dasiphora fruticosa, also called shrubby cinquefoil, is a hardy flowering plant from the rose family. The cosmetic ingredient is a whole plant extract taken from its leaves, stems and flowers. The extract is naturally rich in sugars, flavonoids and tannins that offer soothing and protective effects.

The plant has a long folk history for calming minor skin issues in chilly mountain regions. As interest in botanical care grew late in the twentieth century, researchers tested the plant in labs and confirmed that its sugar-based compounds soften skin and hair while its antioxidants guard against daily stress. This led to its formal adoption in cosmetic ingredient lists as Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract.

Manufacturers harvest the aerial parts of cultivated plants, dry them then steep them in a gentle water-solvent mix. After filtering and concentrating the liquid, they obtain a clear brownish extract ready for creams and conditioners.

Today the ingredient appears in soothing face masks, daily moisturizers, anti aging serums, scalp tonics, leave in hair conditioners, after sun gels and sensitive skin lotions where a mild botanical conditioner is needed.

Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking botanical supports both hair and skin care formulas

  • Hair conditioning: The extract forms a light film along the hair shaft that smooths rough cuticles, adds slip for easier detangling and helps hair retain moisture so it feels soft and looks glossy
  • Skin conditioning: Its mix of sugars and antioxidants supports the skin barrier, supplies a hydrated feel and leaves a smooth touch which can enhance the overall sensory experience of creams and gels

Who Can Use Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract

The extract is gentle and water based so it suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination, oily and sensitive. People who know they react to plants in the rose family should approach with caution as cross reactions are possible.

Because the ingredient is plant derived and no animal by-products are used during extraction it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest the extract causes hormonal effects so it is generally viewed as safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women when used in a typical cosmetic dose. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check any skincare with a doctor before use to be safe.

Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity and can be worn during the day without making skin more prone to sunburn. Standard daytime SPF protection remains important for overall skin health.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract differ from person to person. The following list covers potential issues yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is used correctly in a well-formulated product.

  • Allergic irritation mild redness itching or swelling in people sensitive to rose family plants
  • Dryness or tightness if very high percentages are layered with other astringent botanicals
  • Eye stinging temporary discomfort if the product accidentally reaches the eyes
  • Rare contact dermatitis rash or flaking in individuals with highly reactive skin

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract is an almost entirely water-soluble botanical rich in sugars and polyphenols with virtually no heavy oils or waxes that could block pores. Its lightweight film-forming action sits on the surface without trapping sebum or dead skin cells which is why formulators consider it non-comedogenic.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

No reports link this extract to fungal acne flare-ups so users dealing with malassezia issues can generally tolerate it.

Summary

Dasiphora Fruticosa Extract conditions skin and hair by laying down a soft moisture-holding film and providing antioxidant support from its natural flavonoids. These properties help smooth rough cuticles improve slip in hair products and leave skin feeling calm hydrated and protected.

While not as famous as aloe or chamomile this mountain shrub has quietly gained a following in niche soothing masks daily moisturizers and gentle leave-in conditioners where brands want a mild plant-based touch.

Overall safety is high with low irritancy and no known hormonal or photosensitivity issues. As with any new topical ingredient it’s wise to patch test a fresh product first to be on the safe side.

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