Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus 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 Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract?

Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract comes from perilla, an herb in the mint family often used in Asian cooking. Scientists take a small piece of the plant and grow it in a lab as a “callus,” a mass of undifferentiated cells. This controlled setting keeps the material free from pollution and seasonal changes. The callus is then extracted and broken down through hydrolysis, a water based process that chops large molecules into smaller, more absorbable ones. The finished ingredient is a lightweight liquid rich in plant sugars, amino acids and soothing compounds.

Perilla gained attention in skincare thanks to its natural omega fatty acids and antioxidants. When lab techniques made it possible to produce a steady, clean supply of the plant’s cells, cosmetic chemists started adding the hydrolyzed extract to formulas that aim to calm and soften skin and hair. You can now spot it in face and sheet masks, daily moisturizers, anti aging serums, leave in conditioners, scalp treatments and gentle cleansers.

Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ingredient supports both skin and hair in several ways

  • Hair conditioning – coats strands with a light film that smooths rough cuticles, boosts shine and helps reduce breakage during brushing
  • Skin conditioning – supplies amino acids and sugars that attract water, leaving skin feeling softer, more supple and less tight
  • Emollient – fills in tiny gaps on the skin’s surface, creating a silky finish while helping lock in moisture

Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract

This ingredient is gentle and lightweight so it fits nearly every skin type. Dry or mature skin benefits from its moisture-locking qualities while oily and combination skin get hydration without a greasy feel. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because the lab-grown extract has fewer impurities than raw plant material. There are no specific concerns for acne-prone skin since the extract is low in oils and sits lightly on the surface.

Because it comes from plant cells grown in culture and is processed without animal derivatives it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians. As always the rest of the formula should be checked for animal sourced additives.

No studies flag the ingredient as unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. It is used topically, absorbs minimally and has no known hormonal activity. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should show any planned products to a doctor just to be safe.

The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. Normal sun protection habits still apply. There are also no ingredient conflicts to worry about so it layers well with most actives and everyday products.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is included at standard cosmetic levels.

  • Mild redness or itching in individuals who are allergic or highly sensitive to plants in the mint family
  • Transient stinging if applied to freshly exfoliated or broken skin
  • Watery eyes or irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eye area
  • Build-up on very fine hair leading to limpness if a leave-in product is overused without regular cleansing

If any irritation or other negative reaction develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract is water based and contains very little oil or wax, so it does not linger in pores or form heavy films that can trap debris. For that reason it earns the lowest score on the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

If the extract appears in a product alongside rich butters or thick silicones the overall formula could still feel heavy, so check the full ingredient list when congestion is a concern.

Summary

Hydrolyzed Perilla Ocymoides Callus Extract acts as a skin and hair conditioner as well as a light emollient. Its small, water loving molecules pull moisture to the surface while its natural sugars and amino acids smooth rough spots, leaving skin soft and strands shiny. Because the callus cells are grown in a lab the extract stays clean, consistent and free of seasonal swings.

The ingredient is gaining traction but is not as common as classics like hyaluronic acid or argan oil, so you will mostly find it in newer niche formulas and K-beauty products.

Current data shows it is gentle, non irritating and safe for most users including sensitive skin, vegans and pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, skin is personal so patch test any new product to make sure it plays nicely with you.

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