Phaseolus Radiatus Seed 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: 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 Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder?

Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder comes from the dried seeds of the mung bean plant, Phaseolus radiatus L., a member of the legume family. Once harvested the beans are cleaned, dried and finely milled into a soft beige powder. Chemically the powder holds a balanced mix of plant proteins, starches, fiber and small amounts of vitamins and minerals that occur naturally in the seed. Mung beans have been used for centuries in Asian beauty rituals where the ground seeds were mixed with water to make gentle facial pastes and body scrubs. Modern cosmetic labs adopted the ingredient for its natural texture enhancing qualities while keeping the traditional appeal of a plant-based additive. Today Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder shows up in clay masks, exfoliating powders, creamy cleansers, body polishes and some lightweight lotions where formulators need a mild thickener that also feels silky on the skin.

Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This plant powder brings one key technical benefit to a formula.

As a viscosity controlling agent it helps adjust the thickness of a product so it spreads smoothly without feeling runny or too heavy. By absorbing a bit of liquid the powder creates a uniform texture that stays stable over time which is especially useful in masks and wash-off products where a balanced consistency is essential for even application.

Who Can Use Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder

Because it is mild and non-active, Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder suits nearly all skin types including normal, dry, oily and combination skin. Its fine texture and low irritation profile make it a comfortable option for sensitive skin as well, provided the formula does not include other stronger actives that could cause trouble.

The ingredient is derived entirely from mung bean seeds with no animal-based processing aids, making it appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are not known to face special risks from topical use of this plant powder. That said this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should run any skincare product past a qualified doctor to be on the safe side.

Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder does not make skin more reactive to sunlight and therefore does not cause photosensitivity. People with confirmed legume or bean allergies should exercise caution, otherwise the ingredient is broadly considered safe for daily cosmetic use.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects or reactions to topical Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder differ from person to person. The points below outline potential issues yet most users will not encounter them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or itching in individuals with legume allergies
  • Temporary dryness if used in a formula with high absorbent clays or acids
  • Eye irritation if loose powder is inhaled or blown into the eyes during application
  • Clogged drains if large amounts of product containing the powder are rinsed away without adequate water flow

If any negative effect occurs stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1/5

Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder is primarily starches, proteins and fiber with very little natural oil so it has minimal tendency to block pores. Its particles usually sit on the skin surface until they are rinsed away which further lowers clogging risk. A rating of 1 reflects this low likelihood yet allows for the remote chance that extremely congested or reactive skin could notice a slight buildup if the powder is left on for long periods in a thick mask.

Suitable for acne-prone skin in most rinse-off or lightweight leave-on formulas.

Because the powder is often combined with richer butters or waxes in scrubs or balms, pore-clogging potential then depends more on the overall formula than on the mung bean powder itself.

Summary

Phaseolus Radiatus Seed Powder acts mainly as a natural viscosity controller that thickens and stabilizes cosmetic products so they glide evenly and feel silky. By absorbing a small amount of water or oil it fine-tunes texture without heaviness, echoing the centuries-old use of ground mung beans in homemade beauty pastes.

The ingredient enjoys moderate popularity, showing up most often in clay masks, dry cleansing powders and gentle scrubs rather than mass-market creams. Brands that favor plant-based minimalist formulas tend to reach for it more than large conventional lines.

Safety data and real-world use suggest a very low irritation profile for the average consumer. Still everyone’s skin is unique so it is smart to patch test any new product that contains this or any other unfamiliar ingredient.

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