Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water: 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
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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 Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water?

Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water is a gentle, water based distillate collected from the leaves of the persimmon tree, scientifically known as Diospyros kaki. The steam distillation process captures water soluble molecules such as flavonoids, tannins and trace minerals that give the ingredient its skin friendly properties.

The persimmon tree has long been valued in East Asian cultures for both its fruit and its soothing leaf infusions. As Korean and Japanese beauty formulas gained global attention, manufacturers began incorporating leaf extracts into topical products for their calming and protective effects. Refining the material into a clear distillate made it easier to blend into modern lotions, serums and sprays without altering texture or scent.

Production starts with harvesting young, healthy leaves which are then gently steamed. The vapor carries the active compounds into a condenser where it cools and returns to liquid form. The resulting leaf water is filtered and standardized for consistent quality before being bottled or added to cosmetic bases.

You will most often see Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water in hydrating toners, facial mists, sheet masks, after sun gels, lightweight moisturizers and deodorant sprays where a mild plant derived boost is desired.

Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This leaf water brings several helpful functions to personal care formulas:

  • Antioxidant: The natural flavonoids help neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution, supporting healthier looking skin and helping to maintain product stability
  • Deodorant: Tannins in the distillate can limit odor causing bacteria on the skin, making it a useful addition to body sprays and underarm products
  • Skin Conditioning: Its lightweight hydration and soothing plant compounds leave the skin feeling soft, refreshed and balanced

Who Can Use Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water

This gentle distillate is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive complexions thanks to its lightweight texture and low risk of irritation. Those with extremely reactive or eczema-prone skin may wish to monitor how their skin feels because naturally occurring tannins could be a little astringent in rare cases.

Because the ingredient is derived entirely from persimmon leaves and processed without animal by-products it meets vegan and vegetarian standards.

No specific contraindications have been noted for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Nevertheless this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should review any new skincare item with a qualified healthcare provider first.

Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water is not known to trigger photosensitivity so daytime use alongside sunscreen is considered safe. It also carries a very low risk of clogging pores making it a comfortable option for acne-prone users.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to topical Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water vary. The points below outline potential though uncommon reactions. When the ingredient is correctly formulated most users will not experience negative effects.

  • Mild stinging or burning on application, especially on compromised or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Temporary redness or flushing in very sensitive individuals
  • Allergic contact dermatitis presenting as itching, rash or swelling
  • Dryness or tight feeling if used in high concentrations on already dehydrated skin

If any irritation or discomfort develops discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0

Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water is almost entirely composed of water plus trace amounts of flavonoids and tannins which are water soluble and do not linger in pores. It contains no heavy oils or fatty acids that typically contribute to congestion so it is considered non comedogenic.

This makes the ingredient well suited for acne prone or easily congested skin.

No additional concerns regarding pore clogging have been reported even at higher usage levels in toners or mists.

Summary

Diospyros Kaki Leaf Water works as an antioxidant deodorant and skin conditioning agent by supplying lightweight hydration along with plant derived flavonoids that fight free radicals and tannins that curb odor causing bacteria. Its soothing profile also leaves skin feeling calm and refreshed.

While not as famous as green tea or rose water this persimmon leaf distillate has gained steady traction in K beauty toners sheet masks and after sun gels thanks to its gentle nature and multitasking benefits.

Overall safety is high with very low rates of irritation or pore clogging reported. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to perform a quick patch test before full face or body use.

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