Paeonia Albiflora 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: July 1, 2025
Share:
Inside this article:

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 Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract?

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract is a plant-based ingredient obtained from the blossoms of the common peony, Paeonia albiflora, a member of the buttercup family. The petals naturally hold skin-friendly compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins and a signature molecule called paeoniflorin, all of which give the extract its mild yet restorative character.

Peony flowers have been valued in East Asia for centuries, first in gardens, then in herbal beauty rinses that were prized for giving a fresh glow to the complexion. Modern cosmetic chemists began looking at the flower’s soothing properties in the late twentieth century and soon refined an extraction process that keeps the delicate actives intact while removing plant debris.

To make the extract, fresh or gently dried petals are steeped in a mix of water and food-grade solvents such as glycerin or ethanol. The liquid is then filtered, concentrated and standardized so each batch offers consistent quality. Finally the extract is blended into water-based or emulsion formulas.

You will most often see Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract in hydrating masks, brightening serums, daily moisturizers, soothing lotions, lightweight toners and age-defying treatments where a gentle botanical boost is desired.

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract is prized for its role as a tonic ingredient.

As a tonic it helps refresh and invigorate the skin surface, promoting a healthier appearance and a comfortable feel. When added to leave-on or rinse-off formulas it supports the skin’s natural balance, offering a calm glow without heaviness or irritation.

Who Can Use Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract

This flower extract is generally well tolerated by all major skin types including dry, oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin because it is lightweight and non-occlusive. Those with a known allergy to peonies or other Ranunculaceae plants should avoid it since cross-reactivity is possible.

The ingredient is 100 % plant derived and normally processed without animal by-products, so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. If you follow a strict cruelty-free lifestyle, look for brands that certify their entire supply chain as vegan to be certain.

No specific warnings have been issued for pregnant or breastfeeding women when using Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract topically, but this is not medical advice. Anyone who is expecting or nursing should review any new skincare product with a qualified healthcare provider to be safe.

The extract is not known to increase photosensitivity, so it can be worn during the day without raising the risk of sunburn. Normal sun protection habits, such as applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen, are still advised whenever you spend time outdoors.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract vary from person to person. The following list covers potential but uncommon issues. When the ingredient is formulated and used correctly most people will not notice any negative effects.

  • Redness or irritation: A mild warm or tingling sensation can appear on very reactive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis: Itching, swelling or small bumps may occur in people allergic to peony or related botanicals
  • Dry patches: Overuse in formulas with high alcohol content could leave the skin feeling tight
  • Eye discomfort: Stinging or watering may follow accidental contact with the eye area
  • Interaction with potent actives: Rarely the extract can boost penetration of strong ingredients like retinoids leading to unexpected sensitivity

If any of these reactions develop stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract is water based and contains almost no oils or waxes that can clog pores, so it sits at the lowest end of the comedogenic scale. The flavonoids and sugars it carries dissolve easily in water and rinse away cleanly without leaving an occlusive film. Because of this, the extract is generally suitable for skin that breaks out easily.

If a formula with this extract still triggers blemishes it is likely due to richer carrier oils, silicones or butters in the overall product rather than the flower extract itself.

Summary

Paeonia Albiflora Flower Extract acts mainly as a tonic, giving skin a refreshed look while helping it feel calm and balanced. Its natural antioxidants like paeoniflorin help temper everyday oxidative stress and its mild astringent tannins gently tighten the surface for a smoother appearance.

The ingredient enjoys steady but not superstar status in cosmetics. You will find it most often in K beauty style lotions, brightening essences and gentle masks where brands want a soft floral touch that is different from the usual rose or chamomile.

Overall it is considered safe for topical use with very low risk of irritation or clogged pores. As with any new skincare item, do a quick patch test before full use to make sure your skin agrees with the complete formula.

Was this article helpful?
More from Glooshi:
ADVERTISEMENT
Get all our top headlines in beauty.
Delivered right to your inbox each week. Zero spam, all goodness, opt-out at anytime.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Get the latest beauty news, top product recommendations & brand-exclusive discount codes direct to your inbox.
Send good feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Send bad feedback:

All feedback is greatly appreciated, anonymous, and will be used to improve the quality of our articles.

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Search