What Is Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract?
Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract comes from the seeds of the scarlet runner bean, a climbing plant in the pea family. The seeds are packed with proteins, small peptides and antioxidants that can help soften and support skin. To make the extract, the cleaned seeds are crushed, soaked in a gentle food grade solvent or water, then filtered to pull out the active parts. The liquid is concentrated and dried to create a stable powder or fluid that blends smoothly into creams and serums. Although the bean has long been a food crop in Central and South America, formulators only began tapping its skin benefits in the last couple of decades as the search for plant based conditioners grew. Today you will most often see this extract in moisturizing lotions, soothing masks, anti-aging serums and daily face creams where a silky after-feel is desired.
Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
This ingredient mainly serves as a skin conditioning agent, meaning it helps the surface of the skin feel softer, smoother and well hydrated. By laying down a fine, breathable film and drawing in water, it supports the skin barrier, reduces the look of dryness and gives formulas a pleasant velvety finish.
Who Can Use Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract
Because this bean-derived extract is light, non-greasy and mainly acts as a surface conditioner, it suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and even sensitive skin. Oily or acne-prone users usually tolerate it as well because it does not add extra oil or clog pores.
The ingredient is entirely plant sourced, so it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians who wish to avoid animal-derived additives.
Current data show no specific concerns for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used in rinse-off or leave-on cosmetics. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare products past a healthcare provider to be safe.
Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and does not interfere with daily SPF use.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, though they remain uncommon when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels and formulated correctly.
- Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
- Temporary itching or warmth right after application
- Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to legumes such as beans, peanuts or soy
- Rare hives or swelling if a stronger allergy is present
If you experience any of these issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 / 5
Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract is primarily made up of water-soluble proteins, peptides and carbohydrates rather than heavy oils or waxes that can block pores. It forms a thin breathable film on the skin that rinses away easily and does not leave behind residue that might trap sebum or dead cells. Because it has no record of triggering blackheads or whiteheads, it earns a solid zero on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone skin.
As with most botanical extracts, the final pore-friendliness depends on the full formula. If the product surrounding the extract is rich in comedogenic oils, the overall rating will lean higher even though the bean extract itself is non-pore-clogging.
Summary
Phaseolus Coccineus Seed Extract is mainly used to condition skin by drawing in moisture and laying down a silky protective veil that smooths texture and supports the barrier. Its blend of plant proteins and antioxidants helps soften the surface and improve comfort without heaviness.
While not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C, it is steadily gaining traction in moisturizers, calming masks and light face creams thanks to its gentle feel and vegan origin.
Current research and consumer experience point to a high safety profile with only rare allergy-related reactions. Still, skin is personal and performing a quick patch test when trying any new product containing this extract is the easiest way to rule out surprises.