Griffonia Simplicifolia 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
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 Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract?

Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract comes from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a woody shrub native to West Africa. The seeds are naturally rich in 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), amino acids, and protective plant sugars that can help hold moisture on the skin. Local communities have long used the plant for wellness rituals, and modern formulators noticed its soothing, hydrating potential for topical use. To make the cosmetic-grade extract, producers clean and dry the harvested seeds, grind them into a meal, then run a gentle water or glycerin-based extraction. The resulting liquid is filtered, concentrated, and standardized so each batch offers consistent skin benefits. You will most often spot this ingredient in hydrating serums, daily moisturizers, calming masks, anti aging creams and after-sun treatments where extra comfort and moisture retention are needed.

Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical is prized in skin care for one key role.

As a skin conditioning agent it helps soften and smooth the skin surface, binds water to boost hydration, and forms a lightweight protective film that can reduce dryness and irritation. Regular use can leave the complexion looking plumper and more comfortable while supporting the skin’s natural barrier.

Who Can Use Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract

Because the extract’s main job is to hydrate and soothe it is generally well tolerated across dry, normal, combination and oily skin types. Its lightweight film forming action adds moisture without leaving a heavy residue so even acne-prone skin usually finds it comfortable. Very sensitive or reactive skin can also benefit thanks to the calming nature of its plant sugars, though these users should still watch for any first-time irritation from new formulas. No particular skin types are considered unsuitable.

The ingredient is plant derived and produced without animal by-products so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

Current data shows no specific issues for topical use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review all skincare products with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure personal safety.

Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity. Normal daytime sun protection practices remain advisable but no extra precautions are required because of this extract.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract vary from one individual to the next. The effects listed below are possible rather than probable and most people will not experience them when using well formulated products.

  • Mild redness or stinging
  • Local itching on very sensitive skin
  • Contact dermatitis in rare cases of plant allergy
  • Eye irritation if product migrates into the eyes

If any of these reactions occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract is obtained through water or glycerin extraction, leaving behind virtually all pore-clogging oils or waxes. Its main components are moisture-binding sugars and amino acids that sit lightly on the skin and rinse away easily, so they are unlikely to block follicles. Because of this non-oily profile the extract is considered non-comedogenic.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Keep in mind the finished product’s entire formula matters; heavy oils, silicones or rich butters added by a brand could still raise the overall comedogenicity even if this single ingredient scores a zero.

Summary

Griffonia Simplicifolia Seed Extract functions as a skin conditioning agent that softens, smooths and hydrates. Its natural plant sugars and amino acids draw water into the outer layers of skin while forming a sheer protective film that helps reduce moisture loss and irritation.

The extract is slowly gaining popularity, showing up in hydrating serums, barrier creams and after-sun gels, but it has not yet reached the mainstream status of ingredients like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide.

Topically it is viewed as very safe with low risk of sensitization or clogged pores. As with any new skincare ingredient a brief patch test is a smart step before full-face use, just to confirm personal compatibility.

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