Narcissus Tazetta 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 Narcissus Tazetta Extract?

Narcissus Tazetta Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from the whole yellow daffodil plant, Narcissus tazetta L., part of the Agavaceae family. The plant is known for its white-and-yellow blooms and pleasant scent, qualities that first attracted perfumers and later skin care formulators. Inside the plant are natural compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids and mild alkaloids that give the extract soothing and toning properties.

To make the extract, harvested daffodil plants are cleaned, dried and then macerated in a water-or-glycol solution. After steeping for a set time, the liquid is filtered and concentrated to create a stable fluid or powder that can be blended into cosmetic bases.

Narcissus Tazetta Extract appears in a variety of product types including facial masks, anti-aging serums, daily moisturizers, toners, scalp treatments and soothing after-sun lotions. Its gentle nature makes it a useful choice for formulas aimed at fresh, balanced and comfortable skin or hair.

Narcissus Tazetta Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This flower-derived ingredient supports both skin and hair care formulas in several ways:

  • Astringent: Helps tighten the look of pores and reduce excess surface oil which can leave the skin feeling smoother and more refined.
  • Hair Conditioning: Adds a softening layer to the hair shaft improving manageability shine and touchability without weighing strands down.
  • Skin Conditioning: Supplies light hydration along with antioxidants that can support the skin’s barrier leading to a calm supple complexion.

Who Can Use Narcissus Tazetta Extract

Narcissus Tazetta Extract is generally suitable for most skin types, including oily, combination, normal and mildly dry or sensitive skin thanks to its lightweight hydration and gentle astringent action. Very reactive or allergy-prone skin should proceed with extra caution because daffodil-related compounds can occasionally trigger sensitivity in those with flower allergies.

The extract is entirely plant derived, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles provided the finished formula has not been blended with animal-based additives such as beeswax or collagen.

Current research suggests topical use is unlikely to pose a specific risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used at the low concentrations found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice, and anyone who is expecting or nursing should have a quick check with their doctor before adding a new product to their routine.

Narcissus Tazetta Extract is not known to increase photosensitivity, so normal daytime activities and sun exposure precautions apply. It also plays well with most other common skincare actives and does not interfere with sunscreen efficacy.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Narcissus Tazetta Extract can vary from person to person; the following is a list of potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience any of them when the ingredient is used at cosmetic levels.

  • Skin redness or stinging in very sensitive individuals
  • Dryness or tightness if layered with multiple astringent products
  • Allergic contact dermatitis for people with daffodil or lily family allergies
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally enters the eyes
  • Mild scalp irritation in leave-on hair treatments for those with fragile scalps

If any uncomfortable reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)

Narcissus Tazetta Extract is usually supplied as a water or glycol solution that contains minimal lipids, so it does not sit heavily on the skin or form thick occlusive films that trap debris. Its mild astringent action may even help keep pores feeling clear. Because of this light, non-oily profile it scores a 1 rather than a 0, acknowledging that every ingredient carries some theoretical risk when used in richer formulas. In general the extract is considered suitable for acne-prone or easily congested skin.

Keep in mind that the overall comedogenic potential of a finished product depends on the full ingredient list. If the extract is blended into a heavy cream loaded with pore-clogging oils the rating of that final product will be higher regardless of the extract’s own low score.

Summary

Narcissus Tazetta Extract serves three main cosmetic roles: it tones the skin’s surface for a refined look, conditions hair for softness and slip and supplies light hydration plus antioxidant support that nurtures a calm complexion. These benefits come from the plant’s naturally occurring phenolic acids and flavonoids which help tighten, smooth and protect.

The extract is not a marquee trend yet but formulators appreciate its gentle floral origin and multipurpose performance, so it appears in a growing number of boutique serums, toners and scalp treatments.

Safety data and decades of traditional use suggest the ingredient is well tolerated when used at normal cosmetic levels. Side effects are rare and typically limited to those with specific flower allergies. As with any new skincare item a small patch test is a smart way to rule out personal sensitivities before full-face or full-scalp use.

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