Nymphaea Coerulea Flower 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 Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract?

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract comes from the vivid blue flowers of the water lily known as Nymphaea coerulea. The petals contain natural compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, tannins and trace alkaloids that give the plant its soothing and antioxidant reputation. Water lilies have been admired since ancient Egyptian times when the blooms were steeped in oils for fragrance and skin rituals. Modern cosmetic use grew from this tradition once researchers confirmed the flower’s skin comforting properties.

To create the extract today growers handpick the blossoms at peak bloom then gently dry them to protect the active molecules. The dried petals are steeped in a solvent like glycerin or propylene glycol which pulls the beneficial components into solution. After filtration and concentration the finished liquid or powder is added to cosmetic formulas.

You will most often see Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract in hydrating sheet masks, calming serums, daily moisturizers, anti aging creams, after sun gels and even some hair conditioners where a soft touch and light botanical fragrance are desired.

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This flower extract brings one key function to skin care products.

Skin Conditioning: The naturally occurring flavonoids and sugars help skin hold moisture, leaving it feeling soft, smooth and refreshed. Its mild antioxidant action can also support the skin’s barrier against everyday stressors which adds to an overall comfortable, healthy look.

Who Can Use Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry, normal and combination skin can benefit from its lightweight moisture boost while sensitive skin often appreciates its calming character. Oily or acne-prone skin can also use it since the extract is watery and non-occlusive though results vary depending on the full formula it sits in.

The ingredient is botanical so it is generally considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans. One point to watch is the carrier solvent: some glycerin can be sourced from animals so committed vegans may want to confirm the product uses plant-derived glycerin or another plant-based solvent.

No research flags specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding users. That said this text is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run any new skincare past their healthcare provider to stay on the safe side.

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract does not cause photosensitivity and can be used day or night. It layers well with common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid without known incompatibilities.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects only. When the ingredient is properly formulated most users will not run into problems.

  • Redness or mild stinging in individuals with very reactive or compromised skin barriers
  • Contact dermatitis in rare cases of specific plant allergy
  • Eye irritation if a product containing the extract is applied too close to the eye area
  • Breakouts if the surrounding formula contains pore-clogging oils and waxes though the extract itself is not comedogenic

If any persistent irritation or discomfort develops discontinue use and seek guidance from a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract is made up mostly of light water-soluble flavonoids, sugars and polyphenols that do not clog pores. It contains no heavy oils, fatty acids or waxes that would typically sit on the skin surface and trap debris, which is why it falls at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin, provided the rest of the product’s formula is also low in pore-clogging ingredients.

Because the extract has a mild antioxidant profile it can even help calm the look of inflamed blemishes, though results depend on overall formulation.

Summary

Nymphaea Coerulea Flower Extract is used mainly for skin conditioning, delivering lightweight hydration and a touch of antioxidant support. Its natural sugars draw water into the outer layers of skin while flavonoids help neutralize everyday free radicals, leaving skin soft, comfortable and refreshed.

The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity in modern skin care, often appearing in calming toners, gel moisturizers and sheet masks that aim for a soothing spa-like feel without heaviness.

Safety data show it is generally well tolerated by most skin types with a very low risk of irritation or pore blockage. Still, patch testing any new product is a smart way to confirm personal compatibility before full-face use.

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