Ligustrum Lucidum 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: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Ligustrum Lucidum Extract?

Ligustrum Lucidum Extract comes from the whole Ligustrum lucidum plant, better known as glossy privet. This evergreen shrub is native to East Asia where its berries and leaves have long been valued in traditional beauty rituals. In modern cosmetics the plant is harvested, cleaned and soaked in a mix of water and gentle food grade solvents that pull out its skin-loving oils, sugars and minor proteins. The liquid is then filtered and either spray-dried into a powder or kept as a concentrated solution ready for blending into products.

Because the extract is rich in natural fatty substances it feels silky and cushioning when placed on the skin. These qualities are the main reason formulators add it to items like daily moisturizers, night creams, hydrating masks, soothing after-sun gels and nourishing body lotions. It pairs well with both water-based and oil-based systems which makes it a flexible choice for many product types.

Ligustrum Lucidum Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care formulas Ligustrum Lucidum Extract serves a single yet valuable role.

As an emollient it fills tiny gaps between skin cells to smooth the surface, soften rough patches and cut down on moisture loss. This leads to skin that feels supple, looks more even and is better protected against daily dryness.

Who Can Use Ligustrum Lucidum Extract

Thanks to its lightweight cushiony feel, Ligustrum Lucidum Extract suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination and mildly sensitive skin. Very oily or acne-prone complexions may find rich emollients too occlusive if layered heavily, so lighter formulas or lower concentrations are advised in those cases.

The extract is entirely plant based and no animal derivatives are used in its processing which makes it suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

There are no published concerns linking topical Ligustrum Lucidum Extract with pregnancy or breastfeeding. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare professional before adding new skincare products to their routine.

The ingredient does not increase photosensitivity so it can be used day or night without raising the risk of sun-related irritation. Standard daily sunscreen use is, of course, still encouraged.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Individual responses to Ligustrum Lucidum Extract can differ. The points below outline possible but uncommon reactions when the ingredient is applied to skin. When used in a well-formulated product most people will not encounter these issues.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with privet or olive family allergies
  • Temporary clogged pores or breakouts if used in heavy layers on acne-prone skin
  • Greasy after-feel when combined with multiple occlusive ingredients

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

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 2 out of 5

Ligustrum Lucidum Extract contains lightweight plant oils that can form a thin occlusive layer yet are not as heavy as butters or waxes. This gives it a low to moderate tendency to clog pores, especially when used at the usual small concentrations found in finished formulas.

Most people prone to acne can use products with this extract if the overall texture is light and non-greasy, though very oily skins may prefer formulas where it appears lower in the ingredient list.

The extract is rarely used at high percentages which keeps its comedogenic risk modest.

Summary

Ligustrum Lucidum Extract works chiefly as an emollient that slips between skin cells to smooth, soften and reduce moisture loss. Its mix of gentle plant lipids delivers a cushioned feel without excessive heaviness.

The ingredient is still fairly niche so it does not appear in as many products as classics like jojoba or shea, but its vegan origin and agreeable skin feel are making it a quiet favorite for newer formulations.

Current data shows it is safe for topical use with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. Even so, trying a small patch first is always wise when bringing any new product into your routine.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search