Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder: 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 Stellata Flower Powder?

Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder is a fine botanical powder made from the dried petals of the Nymphaea stellata plant, a water lily native to ponds and slow-moving waterways across South and Southeast Asia. Once prized in ancient rituals and traditional beauty care, its fragrant blooms were crushed or steeped in oils to soften and perfume the skin. Modern cosmetic labs have revived this heritage by gently air-drying freshly collected flowers, then milling them into a silky powder that keeps the plant’s active molecules intact.

The flower naturally contains soothing flavonoids, protective tannins, sugars known as polysaccharides and a trace of essential oils that give it a light natural scent. These compounds help calm the skin surface and hold moisture. After drying, the powder is sifted to remove fibrous parts and sterilized for purity before it is blended into finished formulas.

Because of its mild nature and soft texture, Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder is found in leave-on lotions, hydrating serums, wash-off masks, toners, lightweight creams and bath soaks where a gentle skin-conditioning boost is desired.

Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This flower powder is valued for one primary role in skincare.

Skin conditioning: The powder forms a light film on the surface that helps retain water, leaving skin smoother and more supple. Its natural sugars pull in moisture while the flavonoids support a calm feel, so products with this ingredient often give an instant soft-focus finish and day-long comfort.

Who Can Use Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder

This flower powder is gentle enough for most complexions. Dry, sensitive and mature skin often benefit the most because the ingredient helps hold water and calm surface discomfort. Oily or blemish-prone skin can also use it since the powder is lightweight and does not typically clog pores, though results may vary from person to person.

Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder is entirely plant based so it suits both vegans and vegetarians. No part of its harvesting or processing relies on animal by-products or animal testing when sourced from ethical suppliers.

Current research shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is applied topically in standard cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should still check with a healthcare professional before starting new skincare products.

The powder is not known to cause photosensitivity so daytime use does not raise the chance of sunburn. Standard sun protection is still advised whenever skin is exposed to UV light.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder vary between individuals. The effects listed below are possible but uncommon when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

Allergic contact dermatitis

Redness or flushing

Mild itching or stinging

Rare pore congestion if blended with heavy oils

If you notice any uncomfortable reaction stop using the product and consult a qualified medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder is ground from lightweight petals that contain mainly water-binding polysaccharides and calming flavonoids rather than heavy waxes or saturated oils, so it has little tendency to block pores. Most formulas include it at low concentrations further reducing any clogging risk.

Because of this low rating it is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

The only time congestion might occur is if the powder is paired with richer butters or occlusive oils in the same product, so the full ingredient list still matters.

Summary

Nymphaea Stellata Flower Powder acts primarily as a skin-conditioning agent. Its natural sugars draw in moisture while a thin botanical film helps keep that water in place, giving skin a softer smoother feel. At the same time gentle flavonoids and tannins ease surface discomfort for a calmer look.

The ingredient is still a niche addition in modern skincare, mainly featured in indie or botanical-focused lines rather than mass-market staples, but formulators appreciate its mildness and clean label appeal.

Overall safety is high with very few reported reactions. As with any new cosmetic it is wise to patch test first to confirm personal compatibility then enjoy the soothing moisture boost this water lily flower can offer.

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