What Is Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract?
Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract comes from the humble mung bean, a legume long valued in Asian cuisine and traditional skincare. The seeds are rich in proteins, sugars and small amounts of natural oils. To make the cosmetic-grade ingredient, manufacturers first mill and clean the seeds, then soak them in water. An acid or enzyme is added to break the large proteins down into shorter chains called peptides, a step known as hydrolysis. These smaller molecules dissolve easily in water, absorb quickly into skin and remain stable in a wide range of formulas.
The resulting extract is a clear to pale amber liquid that blends well with both water-based and emulsion systems. Because of its gentle nature and plant origin, it has gained popularity with brands looking for vegan or naturally inspired actives. You can now find Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract in lightweight serums, daily moisturizers, sheet masks, eye creams, soothing after-sun gels and even some hair leave-ins where extra softness is desired.
Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This multitasking botanical offers several benefits in topical products
- Humectant: Draws water from the environment and the deeper layers of skin toward the surface, helping to keep skin plump and hydrated for longer periods
- Skin Conditioning: The peptides and sugars form a thin film that smooths rough patches, improves elasticity and leaves skin feeling silky
- Emollient: Softens and comforts the skin barrier, reducing the feeling of tightness that can follow cleansing or environmental stress
Who Can Use Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract
This mung bean–derived extract is considered gentle enough for most skin types. Dry or dehydrated skin appreciates its humectant action while the lightweight texture sits comfortably on combination and oily skin without feeling greasy. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well because it is free of added fragrance and harsh solvents although anyone with a known legume allergy should proceed with caution.
Because the ingredient is sourced from a plant and the enzymes used for hydrolysis are typically microbial or botanical, it meets vegan and vegetarian standards. No animal by-products are introduced at any stage of production.
Current safety data show no specific risks for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run new skincare products by a healthcare professional to be on the safe side.
Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it can be used day or night without increasing the chance of sunburn. It also plays well with common actives like vitamin C, niacinamide and gentle exfoliating acids, making it easy to slot into almost any routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract vary from person to person. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.
- Allergic response: People with a legume or mung bean allergy could experience redness itching or swelling
- Transient stinging: A brief tingling sensation may occur on broken or highly sensitized skin
- Contact dermatitis: Very rare cases of rash or flaking have been reported in individuals with ultra-reactive skin
- Ingredient interactions: Its humectant nature can increase absorption of other actives which might intensify irritation from potent formulas
If any discomfort or persistent irritation develops stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0–1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)
Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract is highly water soluble and made up of lightweight peptides and sugars with almost no residual oil so it does not leave a heavy film that can trap sebum or debris.
Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.
If the extract appears in a very rich cream or balm any pore clogging would come from the base oils or waxes not the extract itself.
Summary
Hydrolyzed Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Extract works as a humectant skin conditioner and emollient by pulling in water smoothing texture and softening the barrier thanks to its small peptides and natural sugars.
It is slowly becoming more common in vegan and plant forward formulas though it has yet to reach the household name status of hyaluronic acid or glycerin.
Overall safety data are reassuring with a low risk of irritation or comedogenicity. Still it is wise to patch test any new product that contains it before full use just to be sure your skin is on board.