Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta 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
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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 Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract?

Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract comes from the tree peony, a flowering shrub long prized in East Asia for its vibrant blooms and traditional skin rituals. The extract is taken from the plant’s phytoplacenta cells, which are packed with peptides, amino acids, sugars and natural antioxidants that help the plant nourish its seeds. To obtain it, growers either isolate cells from fresh peony ovules or cultivate the cells in a sterile lab environment, then break them open and filter out the active material. This controlled process keeps the extract free of pesticides and heavy metals while concentrating the beneficial molecules.

The beauty world started looking at plant placental cells in the early 2000s as a gentler alternative to animal placenta. Tree peony quickly stood out because it grows well without harsh farming methods and its cells show strong protective activity against free radicals. Today you can spot Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract in sheet masks, anti-aging serums, brightening essences, lightweight moisturizers and scalp or hair-strengthening treatments where brands want a clean, plant-based boost.

Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ingredient brings several helpful actions to skin and hair formulas:

  • Antimicrobial: Helps keep products fresh by slowing the growth of odor-causing or spoilage microbes which can also reduce the chance of minor breakouts on skin.
  • Antioxidant: Supplies natural compounds that neutralize free radicals generated by UV light and pollution, supporting a more even tone and delaying visible signs of aging.
  • Hair conditioning: Coats the hair shaft with lightweight plant proteins and sugars that improve softness and shine while helping reduce breakage.
  • Skin conditioning: Draws moisture to the surface layers and supports a smoother barrier so skin feels plump, calm and comfortable.

Who Can Use Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract

This gentle plant extract suits most skin types including sensitive, oily, combination, normal and mature skin. Its lightweight texture makes it unlikely to clog pores while the natural sugars draw in water, giving dry skin a moisture boost although very parched complexions may still need a richer cream on top.

Because the ingredient is sourced entirely from tree peony cells with no animal derivatives it is appropriate for vegans and vegetarians.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and the extract is not known to penetrate deeply or disrupt hormones. Still, data on its use during pregnancy is limited so this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should show the full product list to a healthcare professional before use just to be safe.

Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight so it is not considered photosensitizing. Regular daytime sunscreen is still recommended for overall skin health.

The extract layers well with common actives like niacinamide, retinoids and alpha hydroxy acids and there are no reported interactions with prescription topicals.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline potential reactions that are possible yet uncommon when the ingredient is used in a well-formulated product.

  • Allergic irritation – stinging, redness or swelling in those sensitive to peony or related botanicals
  • Contact dermatitis – itchy rash after repeated exposure in rare cases
  • Eye discomfort – watering or mild burn if the product accidentally enters the eyes
  • Flare-up of existing eczema – very sensitive skin may experience temporary dryness or scaling

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product immediately and consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract is water based and contains mostly low-molecular-weight peptides, amino acids and sugars rather than heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. Current ingredient databases do not list any pore-clogging constituents in significant amounts so it earns the lowest possible score.

Because of this non-comedogenic profile it is generally considered suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

The extract is usually included at modest percentages, further reducing any occlusive risk when blended into lightweight serums, gels or essences.

Summary

Paeonia Suffruticosa Phytoplacenta Extract works as an antioxidant, a mild antimicrobial, and a conditioning agent for both skin and hair. Its naturally occurring peptides and sugars attract moisture, soften surface texture, support a stronger barrier and add slip and shine to hair strands while the phenolic compounds scavenge free radicals and help keep formulas microbially stable.

Although not yet a household name, the extract is gaining traction in clean beauty and K-beauty circles thanks to its plant origin and multitasking nature. You will mostly find it in niche anti-aging serums, brightening essences and scalp tonics rather than mass-market lines.

Overall safety data show a low risk of irritation or sensitization so most users tolerate it well. As with any new cosmetic ingredient, perform a quick patch test the first time you try a product that contains it just to be on the safe side.

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