Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder: 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 Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder?

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder is a finely milled material made from dried clove flower buds, botanically known as Syzygium aromaticum or Eugenia caryophyllus. The buds are naturally rich in the aromatic compound eugenol along with small amounts of tannins, flavonoids and other volatile oils that give clove its warm spicy scent. Clove has been prized for centuries as a culinary spice and household remedy; over time its soothing and fragrant qualities sparked interest among beauty formulators. To create the powder, harvested buds are sun- or oven-dried then ground into a soft, buff-colored flour that retains the plant’s natural oils. The finished powder slips easily into cosmetic bases, which is why you can spot it in face masks, exfoliating powders, purifying cleansers, anti-aging creams and occasional aromatherapeutic body products.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas this ingredient is valued mainly for one role.

As a skin-conditioning agent it helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin, lending a comfortable feel and subtly enhancing moisture retention. Its natural eugenol content also imparts a pleasant warm aroma that can elevate the sensorial experience of a product.

Who Can Use Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder

Most skin types can enjoy products that contain this clove derived powder. Normal, oily and combination skin often benefit from its softening feel. Dry skin can use it as well when the formula also includes richer emollients. Very sensitive, reactive or broken skin may prefer to skip it because the naturally occurring eugenol can feel too stimulating and may trigger redness.

The ingredient comes solely from plant material so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women are generally considered able to use cosmetics that feature this powder at the low levels common in finished products. This is not medical advice and those who are expecting or nursing should show any product they plan to use to their doctor just to be safe.

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder is not linked to increased photosensitivity so sun exposure precautions beyond daily sunscreen are not usually necessary. People with a known allergy to clove or eugenol should avoid it.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder differ from person to person. The points below describe potential side effects that could occur though they are not the typical experience for most users when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Skin tingling or mild warmth
  • Temporary redness or irritation
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in those sensitive to clove or eugenol
  • Eye irritation if the powder or a product containing it gets too close to the eyes
  • Fragrance sensitivity headaches in scent reactive individuals

If a negative reaction develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder is mostly made of ground plant matter with only a small amount of natural oil so it has little chance of clogging pores. The particles sit on the surface and rinse away easily which keeps buildup to a minimum. Because of this low rating the powder is generally fine for people who deal with blackheads or breakouts, though those with very reactive acne may notice the warm sensation from eugenol and prefer to avoid it.

While not a pore blocker the spice-like nature of clove can feel stimulating on open blemishes which is worth keeping in mind if your skin is irritated.

Summary

Eugenia Caryophyllus Flower Bud Powder is used in cosmetics to condition skin leaving it softer, smoother and lightly scented. The powder delivers this benefit thanks to its trace eugenol content plus gentle plant fibres that help products glide.

It is a fairly niche ingredient that shows up in natural face masks, scrubs and the occasional cream rather than in every mainstream line yet formulators who want a warm aromatic touch often reach for it.

At the low amounts found in finished products it is considered safe for most users with the main watch-out being possible irritation in those allergic to clove. As with any new skincare product it is smart to patch test first to make sure your skin is happy.

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