What Is Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract?
Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract is a plant based ingredient that brings together two traditional South American crops. Lepidium meyenii, better known as maca, grows high in the Andes where its root has been eaten for centuries. Plukenetia volubilis, known as sacha inchi, is a climbing plant from the Amazon whose star shaped pods hold oil rich seeds. By combining the whole maca plant with pressed sacha inchi seeds, formulators create an extract packed with natural sugars, amino acids and lightweight oils that mimic the skin’s own lipids.
The beauty industry started paying attention to these plants in the early 2000s when brands looked for exotic botanicals that offer both hydration and a story of heritage. Today suppliers make the extract by drying the maca plant, cold-pressing or gently solvent-extracting the sacha inchi seeds, then blending the two concentrates in water or glycerin. The result is a fluid, golden to amber ingredient that dissolves well in lotions, creams and water based serums.
You will most often see Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract in everyday moisturizers, anti-aging serums, overnight masks, soothing after-sun gels and hair leave-ins that aim to add lightweight moisture without greasiness.
Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This dual plant extract supports skin in a couple of key ways that make it a handy add-in for many formulas:
- Humectant: The natural sugars from maca attract water to the skin’s surface which helps keep it plump and comfortable while reducing the look of fine lines caused by dryness.
- Skin conditioning: The fatty acids from sacha inchi seeds form a light, breathable layer that smooths rough patches, softens texture and gives products a silky glide during application.
Who Can Use Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract
This extract is gentle enough for all skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit most from its water-binding sugars and softening lipids while combination and oily skin appreciate that the finish is light rather than greasy. Extremely oily or acne-prone users who dislike any plant oils may prefer lower concentrations though the ingredient itself is not highly comedogenic.
Because it is derived entirely from plants with no animal by-products, products featuring Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract are suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. Many brands also source the crops through fair trade initiatives which can be an added ethical bonus.
No specific warnings exist for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The extract does not contain retinoids, salicylic acid or other ingredients that typically raise concern. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should review any new skincare product with a healthcare professional.
The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no added risk of sun-related irritation when it is applied during the daytime.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract vary from person to person. The following is a list of potential side effects which remain unlikely for most users when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Redness or mild irritation
- Itching or stinging on very sensitive skin
- Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to maca or sacha inchi
- Clogged pores if applied in heavy, occlusive products on skin already prone to congestion
If you notice any persistent discomfort or unusual reaction discontinue use immediately and seek advice from a medical professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1/5
Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract contains mostly lightweight, highly unsaturated fatty acids and natural sugars that absorb quickly rather than forming a heavy film. These characteristics mean it has a very low likelihood of blocking pores, earning it a near-non comedogenic score of 1.
In most formulations it is suitable for people who are prone to acne or breakouts, especially when used in lighter lotions and serums.
Keep in mind overall product design matters: pairing the extract with thick occlusives or waxes can raise the pore-clogging potential even if the extract itself is low risk.
Summary
Lepidium Meyenii/Plukenetia Volubilis Seed Extract serves mainly as a humectant and skin conditioning agent. The water-loving sugars from maca pull moisture into the skin while the delicate oils from sacha inchi smooth surface texture and reinforce the lipid barrier, leaving skin soft and comfortable without a greasy feel.
Although not as common as classics like glycerin or shea butter, interest in this Andean-Amazonian duo is growing as brands look for fresh plant stories and multitasking ingredients that fit clean beauty demands.
Topically it is considered low risk with only rare reports of sensitivity. As with any new skincare addition it is wise to perform a quick patch test to rule out individual reactions before full-face use.