Euphorbia Lathyris Seed 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 Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract?

Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract comes from the seeds of the caper spurge, a hardy Mediterranean plant with milky sap and distinctive paired leaves. The seeds are rich in fatty acids and phytochemicals that help condition skin. Centuries ago herbalists used the plant in folk remedies, and modern formulators took interest when they noticed its oil left a soft, supple feel on the skin. To create the cosmetic-grade extract, the cleaned seeds are cold pressed or gently solvent extracted, then refined to remove irritants while preserving the beneficial lipids. You will spot this ingredient in moisturizers, night creams, anti-aging serums, masks and pampering body lotions where a silky finish is desired.

Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare formulas Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract acts primarily as a skin-conditioning agent, meaning it helps soften and smooth the surface, reinforces the skin barrier and leaves a comfortable after-feel that makes products more pleasurable to use.

Who Can Use Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract

Most skin types can enjoy products featuring Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract. Its cushiony lipid profile makes it especially comforting for normal, dry, sensitive and mature skin that crave extra softness. Combination skin usually tolerates it well too, provided the overall formula is not overly rich. Very oily or acne prone complexions may find heavy concentrations a bit occlusive, so lighter emulsions or serums are the better pick for those groups.

The extract is 100 percent plant derived, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles without reservation.

No data suggest it poses a specific risk to pregnant or breastfeeding women when used topically. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run new skincare choices by a qualified doctor to stay on the safe side.

Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract is not known to trigger photosensitivity, meaning it does not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is, of course, always wise for overall skin health.

Because the ingredient is stable and non reactive, it plays nicely with common actives such as vitamin C, retinoids and exfoliating acids, allowing users to slot it into most routines without worry.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to the topical use of Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues only; the typical user should not expect to experience them when the ingredient is included at appropriate levels in a well formulated product.

  • Skin irritation
  • Redness or a warm sensation shortly after application
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to plants in the Euphorbiaceae family
  • Temporary clogged pores or breakouts on very oily or acne prone skin if the surrounding formula is heavy

If any of these reactions occur, stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2/5. Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract is mainly composed of lightweight triglycerides and unsaturated fatty acids that are unlikely to block pores for most users, yet its oil‐rich nature gives it a small potential to feel occlusive on very oily or congestion-prone skin.

People who break out easily can generally use it in low to moderate amounts, especially when the overall formula is light and well balanced.

As with many plant oils, the exact refining process and final fatty acid profile can vary by supplier, so texture and pore-clogging potential may differ slightly from one product to another.

Summary

Euphorbia Lathyris Seed Extract serves mainly as a skin-conditioning ingredient that softens, smooths and reinforces the skin barrier thanks to its blend of lipids and naturally occurring phytochemicals. It is not a marquee buzzword in the beauty world, yet formulators value it for the silky after-feel it lends to creams, masks and body care.

Topical use is considered low risk with only occasional reports of minor irritation or pore clogging in very oily skin, making it a generally safe option for the majority of users. As with any new skincare ingredient, perform a quick patch test when trying a product that features this extract to confirm personal compatibility.

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