Ipomoea Bona-Nox 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 30, 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 Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract?

Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract comes from the blossoms of Ipomoea bona-nox, a night-blooming member of the morning glory family. The flowers are rich in natural sugars, flavonoids and protective antioxidants that the plant uses to shield itself from stress. Herbal healers in tropical regions once crushed these blooms into soothing poultices for the skin, which sparked modern interest in their protective qualities.

To create the cosmetic grade extract, freshly collected flowers are cleaned then steeped in a safe solvent such as glycerin or water. The solution is filtered to remove plant solids and the liquid is gently concentrated, keeping the delicate antioxidant compounds intact. The final extract is a clear to pale-gold liquid that blends well into water-based or emulsified formulas.

Today you will spot Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract in moisturizers, anti-aging serums, calming masks, after-sun gels and leave-on treatments aimed at reducing daily environmental damage.

Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The ingredient is classed as skin protecting, meaning it helps shield skin from external stressors like pollution and UV-related free radicals. By delivering antioxidants and soothing phytochemicals it supports the skin barrier, reduces the look of redness caused by environmental factors and helps maintain a smooth hydrated surface that feels comfortable throughout the day.

Who Can Use Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract

Because the extract is lightweight and water soluble it works well for normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its calming antioxidants also make it a friendly option for sensitive or redness-prone complexions. There is no heavy oil content so acne-prone users usually tolerate it without clogged pores.

Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract is plant derived with no animal by-products, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles when sourced from cruelty-free suppliers.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, although safety data is limited. This information is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare products.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so daytime use is fine as long as you follow normal sun protection habits.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to any botanical ingredient can differ from person to person. The following points list potential side effects yet most users will not experience them when using a well-formulated product.

  • Mild redness or warmth
  • Temporary stinging on very reactive or broken skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to morning glory family plants
  • Interaction with highly acidic formulas that could destabilize the extract and lower its soothing effect

If irritation or any unexpected reaction occurs stop use immediately and seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract is a water based botanical with virtually no residual oils or waxes that could clog pores. Its molecules are mostly antioxidants, sugars and lightweight flavonoids that rinse cleanly from skin and do not accumulate inside follicles. Because it lacks pore-blocking lipids the extract is considered non-comedogenic and is generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.

As with any ingredient the overall formula matters: pairing the extract with heavy butters or occlusive silicones could raise a product’s pore-clogging potential even though the extract itself scores a zero.

Summary

Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract primarily acts as a skin protector delivering antioxidants that neutralize free radicals soothe irritation and reinforce the skin barrier. The natural sugars help bind moisture so skin feels soft and comfortable while flavonoids calm signs of environmental stress.

The ingredient is still relatively niche compared with classics like green tea or chamomile but it is gaining traction in modern anti-pollution and after-sun formulas thanks to its gentle profile and plant powered defense benefits.

Overall safety is high with low reports of irritation or sensitivity. Even so everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to perform a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains Ipomoea Bona-Nox Flower Extract just to be on the safe side.

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