Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate: 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
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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 Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate?

Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate comes from the wild mint plant Mentha arvensis. Scientists take a small piece of the plant and grow it in a clean lab setting until it forms a soft mass called a callus. The callus cells are then broken open, or lysed, to release their inner contents. This lysate is rich in natural molecules like polyphenols and flavonoids that are known for fighting free radicals. Using plant cell culture lets makers obtain these helpful compounds without harvesting large amounts of wild plants, which supports sustainability.

The use of plant cell lysates in cosmetics took off in the last two decades as brands searched for greener yet efficient ingredients. Mint, prized for its refreshing qualities, quickly found a place in skin care once researchers proved its cell cultures keep many of the same protective elements as the whole plant.

After the callus is grown, the cells are filtered, gently broken down, and purified. The resulting liquid or powder is easy to mix into water based or cream formulas.

You will most often see Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate in lightweight serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, soothing after-sun gels, scalp treatments and brightening lotions where an antioxidant boost is wanted.

Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is valued mainly for one key action in skin and hair care products.

Antioxidant: The lysate supplies compounds that neutralize free radicals produced by UV light, pollution and daily stress. By cutting down oxidative damage it helps keep skin looking firm, even toned and smooth for longer which supports anti-aging claims and preserves the stability of the overall formula.

Who Can Use Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate

This mint-derived lysate suits most skin types including dry, oily, combination and normal thanks to its light, water-friendly texture that absorbs quickly without leaving residue. Sensitive skin can usually tolerate it as the lysate is purified and free of menthol, though anyone with a known mint allergy should avoid it.

The ingredient is fully plant based and made in a controlled lab culture with no animal ingredients or by-products, making it appropriate for both vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, yet published data on this ingredient during pregnancy are limited. Because every situation is unique this information is not medical advice; expectant or nursing mothers should show the full product label to their healthcare provider before use.

Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate is not known to increase photosensitivity so it can be applied morning or night without extra sun precautions beyond a daily sunscreen that should already be in place.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate vary from person to person. The following points outline potential side effects that are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.

  • Mild redness or warmth at the application site
  • Temporary itching or tingling, particularly on very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals with a mint allergy
  • Eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes

If any of these issues occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0

Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate is a water soluble plant cell extract that contains virtually no oils or waxy residues, so it does not block pores or trap sebum. For that reason formulators consider it non comedogenic and safe for acne prone or congestion prone skin. As always the overall formula matters, so pairing this lysate with heavy oils or butters could still cause breakouts even though the lysate itself will not.

Summary

Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate delivers antioxidant benefits that help protect skin and hair from free radical damage keeping the complexion smoother firmer and more even looking. It performs this role by supplying polyphenols and flavonoids that neutralize oxidative stress in the upper layers of the skin and support formula stability.

The ingredient is still a niche player compared to big name antioxidants like vitamin C or green tea but its lab grown sustainable story is winning fans among clean beauty brands and indie formulators.

Current data show it is generally safe for all skin types with a very low risk of irritation except in those with a mint allergy. While safety profiles are positive it is always smart to do a patch test when trying any new product that contains Mentha Arvensis Callus Lysate just to be sure your skin agrees with it.

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