What Is Ononis Spinosa Root Extract?
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract comes from the roots of the restharrow plant, a hardy legume that grows across Europe and parts of Asia. The roots are rich in natural sugars, flavonoids and tannins, which give the extract its skin friendly qualities. Restharrow has a long history in folk care where root infusions were applied to soothe the skin. Modern cosmetic labs took note of these soothing traits and began adding the extract to personal care formulas in the early 2000s.
To make the extract, freshly dug roots are cleaned, dried and then steeped in a mix of water and safe plant solvents. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and finally standardized so every batch offers consistent activity. You will often spot Ononis Spinosa Root Extract in masks, lightweight moisturizers, mattifying lotions and targeted serums aimed at oily or easily irritated skin.
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This plant extract offers a blend of complexion balancing and calming perks
- Anti-Sebum: Helps reduce excess oil on the skin’s surface which can give a fresher appearance and help makeup last longer
- Soothing: Eases the look of redness or tightness making products feel gentle even on reactive or freshly cleansed skin
Who Can Use Ononis Spinosa Root Extract
This extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Its oil balancing nature makes it especially handy for combination and oily complexions while the calming touch suits sensitive skin that flushes easily. Normal skin can also benefit from the light soothing feel. Very dry skin might want a richer companion ingredient because the anti sebum effect could leave it feeling a bit tight if used alone.
The extract is plant derived and no animal by products are involved in its production, so it is considered suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.
Current research shows no specific issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low percentages found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new products just to be safe.
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract does not increase photosensitivity, so there is no special caution needed regarding sun exposure beyond the usual daily SPF recommendation.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Ononis Spinosa Root Extract can differ from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects, but most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging
- Itchy patches in very sensitive individuals
- Allergic contact dermatitis in people allergic to legumes
If any irritation or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5 — Ononis Spinosa Root Extract is water based and contains minimal oils or heavy waxes, so it is very unlikely to clog pores. Its light texture and anti sebum action can even help keep pore blockage at bay.
Because of this low score the extract is generally suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.
Formulas that pair the extract with rich butters or occlusive oils may raise the overall comedogenicity of a finished product, so always scan the full ingredient list if congestion is a concern.
Summary
Ononis Spinosa Root Extract offers two main perks: it curbs excess surface oil and it soothes visible redness or tightness. Natural tannins and flavonoids help temper sebum while calming compounds ease reactivity, making the extract a multitasker for balanced clear looking skin.
The ingredient is still a bit of an insider favorite rather than a mainstream star, but it is quietly gaining traction in mattifying serums and gentle moisturizers aimed at combination or sensitive skin.
Safety data shows it is well tolerated for most users with only rare reports of mild irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare step it is smart to patch test a fresh product containing this extract before full use just to be safe.