Hypochaeris Radicata Flower 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 Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract?

Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract comes from the bright yellow blooms of Hypochaeris radicata, a daisy-like plant often called cat’s ear. The flowers are rich in natural compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids and small amounts of triterpenes, ingredients that help soothe and soften skin. Herbal records show the plant was used traditionally for minor skin discomforts; formulators later noticed its calming properties and began adding the flower extract to modern personal care products. To make the extract, freshly harvested or carefully dried flowers are steeped in a gentle solvent like water, glycerin or a mix of water and propylene glycol, then filtered to remove plant solids. The result is a clear to pale-gold liquid that slips easily into toners, hydrating serums, lightweight facial creams, sheet masks and after-sun gels.

Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care labels this ingredient appears with the role of skin conditioning. By helping to bind moisture and soften the outer layer, the extract leaves the complexion feeling smooth, comfortable and less prone to tightness. Its naturally occurring antioxidants add a mild protective boost, making the formula feel nurturing on sensitive or stressed skin.

Who Can Use Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract

This flower extract is mild enough for most skin types including dry oily combination and sensitive skin. It supplies light hydration without leaving a greasy film so even acne-prone complexions usually tolerate it well. The only group that may need extra caution is anyone with known allergies to plants in the daisy or ragweed family because cross reactions are possible.

Because the ingredient is entirely plant derived and no animal by-products are used in its standard extraction process it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No research points to special risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding a new product to their routine.

The extract is not known to increase sensitivity to sunlight so normal daytime sun protection practices are sufficient.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

How skin responds to Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract can differ from one person to another. The points below outline potential side effects but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

Skin redness or mild irritation

Itching or stinging on application

Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to the Asteraceae plant family

Rare localized swelling or hives

If any unwanted reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0-1 (virtually non-comedogenic)

Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract is a water-glycerin soluble botanical with no appreciable amounts of heavy oils or waxes that might clog pores. Its main constituents are lightweight flavonoids and phenolic acids that sit on the skin surface without blocking follicles, so the risk of pore congestion is very low.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

Because the extract is usually present at low concentrations and is often paired with non-occlusive bases such as toners or gels, it rarely alters the overall pore-clogging profile of a finished formula.

Summary

Hypochaeris Radicata Flower Extract conditions skin by drawing in light moisture, softening surface texture and delivering gentle antioxidant support. These benefits stem from its natural flavonoids, phenolic acids and trace triterpenes that calm visible irritation and help maintain a comfortable skin barrier.

The ingredient is still a niche choice compared with better-known botanicals like chamomile or green tea, but formulators who want a mild soothing boost are starting to include it in toners serums and after-sun gels.

Overall safety is high when used at cosmetic levels: serious reactions are rare outside of daisy-family allergies and the extract rates nearly zero on the comedogenic scale. As with any new product though it is wise to perform a quick patch test to rule out personal sensitivities.

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