Dryopteris Erythrosora 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
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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 Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract?

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract comes from the entire Dryopteris erythrosora plant, a fern that grows in East Asia and parts of North America. The plant is rich in natural sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of organic acids, all of which can help skin feel smooth and comfortable. Traditional folk remedies have long used the fern to soothe minor skin troubles, and this background sparked interest from modern formulators.

To make the extract, harvested ferns are cleaned, dried and then soaked in a mix of water and safe cosmetic solvents. After the plant matter steeps, the liquid is filtered and the solvent is removed, leaving a concentrated extract that can be blended into creams and lotions. Because it is water based, the ingredient fits easily into most standard cosmetic production lines.

You will often see Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract in lightweight moisturizers, calming sheet masks, daily face creams and all-in-one anti-aging products. Brands use it for its gentle feel on the skin and its ability to boost the overall comfort of a formula.

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This fern extract plays a straightforward yet valuable role in skincare.

As a skin conditioning agent, Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin. It supports the skin’s natural moisture balance so products feel hydrating without being heavy. When added to a formula, it can improve the overall texture of the product and leave skin feeling fresh and comfortable after application.

Who Can Use Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract is generally well tolerated by all main skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is mild and water based. Very reactive or highly compromised skin should proceed with caution only because any new botanical can be unpredictable when the skin barrier is already weakened.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. It is also produced without the use of animal testing in modern cosmetic supply chains, which further supports cruelty-free standards.

Current research has not flagged any issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically at the low levels found in finished cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a quick chat with a qualified healthcare provider before adding a new product to their routine.

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and it has no known interactions with UV filters in sunscreen. There are no fragrance components naturally present in the extract, which lowers the chance of scent related irritation.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical application of Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract can vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects but in properly formulated products most users will not experience these issues.

  • Mild redness or warmth: usually short lived and linked to individual sensitivity rather than the extract itself
  • Itching or stinging: more likely on broken or freshly exfoliated skin where the barrier is compromised
  • Allergic contact dermatitis: rare but possible in people with known plant allergies or multiple sensitivities
  • Interaction with other strong actives: layering with highly acidic treatments or strong retinoids may increase the chance of irritation in very reactive skin

If you notice any unwanted reaction stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0–1

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract is water based and contains minimal lipids or heavy waxes that could clog pores. Its primary components are lightweight sugars and flavonoids that sit on the skin surface without forming an occlusive film, so the risk of blocked pores is very low.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

No data suggest the extract interferes with sebum production or bacterial balance, so it is unlikely to aggravate existing blemishes even when used daily.

Summary

Dryopteris Erythrosora Extract conditions skin by delivering a quick touch of hydration and helping smooth rough texture. It relies on naturally occurring sugars to bind water and on antioxidant flavonoids to keep skin feeling calm and comfortable.

While not a spotlight ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it quietly appears in a range of moisturizers and soothing masks because formulators value its mild nature and ease of use.

The extract is considered safe for most users with only rare reports of irritation. As with any new skincare addition it is wise to patch test first to confirm personal tolerance.

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