What Is Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract?
Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract comes from the whole water milfoil plant, Myriophyllum verticillatum, which grows in calm freshwater lakes and ponds. The plant is part of the Haloragaceae family and is rich in natural sugars, fatty acids and soothing polysaccharides that help it thrive underwater. These same compounds give the extract its skin friendly qualities.
Water milfoil has been used for centuries in traditional practices to soften skin after long hours in the sun or wind. As cosmetic science advanced, formulators took a closer look at the plant’s natural emollient and conditioning profile and began adding a refined extract to lotions and creams in the early 2000s.
The extract is usually made by harvesting the whole plant, air drying it then soaking it in a gentle solvent such as glycerin or water. The liquid pulls out the beneficial components, after which the mixture is filtered and concentrated. This low heat process helps keep the delicate fatty acids and sugars intact.
Today you might spot Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract in hydrating masks, lightweight daily moisturizers, after sun gels, soothing toners and anti aging serums that aim for a soft, supple finish.
Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This plant based ingredient offers two main benefits that make it a handy addition to skin care formulas:
- Skin Conditioning: The natural sugars and fatty acids form a light film on the surface of the skin, helping it hold on to water. This supports a smoother texture and gives skin a healthy looking glow.
- Emollient: The extract fills in tiny gaps between skin cells, creating a silkier feel and reducing the roughness that can come from dryness or environmental stress.
Who Can Use Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract
This gentle plant extract is generally suitable for all skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin because it is light, non greasy and mainly functions by adding moisture and softness rather than strong active effects. Those with very oily or acne prone skin may still appreciate its lightweight feel since it does not clog pores or leave a heavy residue.
The ingredient is completely botanical, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles with no animal derived components or by-products used in the harvesting or extraction process.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women can usually use products containing Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract without concern. Because individual circumstances differ this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run new skincare products past a qualified healthcare professional just to be sure.
The extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so there is no added risk of photosensitivity compared to regular moisturizers. As always daily sunscreen is recommended for overall skin health.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential but uncommon side effects. When the ingredient is formulated and preserved correctly most users experience none of these issues.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itching or localized rash in those with plant allergies
- Contact dermatitis if the formula contains other sensitizing ingredients and the extract acts as a carrier
- Eye irritation if the product is accidentally rubbed into the eyes
If any negative reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 out of 5
Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract is made mostly of water soluble sugars, light polysaccharides and a small amount of fatty acids, so it lacks the heavy, pore blocking lipids that typically raise a comedogenic score. Its film forming action sits on the surface yet rinses away easily, keeping buildup to a minimum.
Because of this low rating it is considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.
Bear in mind that overall pore clogging potential can change once the extract is blended with richer butters or oils in a finished product, so always look at the complete ingredient list.
Summary
Myriophyllum Verticillatum Extract acts mainly as a skin conditioner and emollient. The natural sugars bind water to the skin so it stays hydrated while the mild fatty acids smooth over tiny surface gaps for a softer feel. Together these actions help maintain a healthy, supple complexion.
Although not a headline grabbing botanical, it appears in a growing number of moisturizers, masks and after sun gels because formulators value its easy to use, gentle profile.
Overall safety is high, with only rare reports of irritation. Still, everyone’s skin is different so it is wise to do a quick patch test when trying any new product that contains this extract.