Pisum Sativum Callus 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 Pisum Sativum Callus Extract?

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract comes from pea plant cells that have been grown in a controlled laboratory culture rather than harvested directly from the field. In the lab the plant cells multiply on a nutrient-rich medium, producing a concentrated biomass rich in peptides, sugars, vitamins and protective polyphenols naturally found in peas. Once the cells reach the right density they are collected, broken open and filtered, yielding a water-soluble extract that is stable and easy to formulate with.

Pea plants have long been valued for their protein, and skin care researchers took notice of their resilient cell structure in the early 2000s when plant stem cell technology started entering the beauty market. By moving production to the lab, brands gained a sustainable supply of active molecules without seasonal farming issues or heavy pesticide use. The extract’s clean label appeal and broad activity quickly made it a favorite for modern clean beauty lines.

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract shows up in serums, daily moisturizers, anti-aging creams, hydrating face masks, leave-on hair conditioners and scalp treatments that aim to soothe irritation and boost shine.

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This multitasking ingredient earns its place on an ingredient list for several reasons

  • Antimicrobial – helps curb the growth of surface bacteria so formulas stay fresher longer and skin feels cleaner
  • Antioxidant – supplies polyphenols that neutralize free radicals which can dull skin tone and accelerate visible aging
  • Hair conditioning – coats the hair shaft with lightweight proteins that smooth frizz improve manageability and add soft shine
  • Humectant – draws water into the upper skin layers providing a quick hit of moisture and a plumper appearance
  • Skin conditioning – supports a softer more supple skin feel by reinforcing the barrier with amino acids and sugars

Who Can Use Pisum Sativum Callus Extract

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract is generally well tolerated by most skin types. Its water-based composition and lightweight humectant action make it helpful for dry, normal and combination skin, while its non-greasy finish means oily or blemish-prone users can enjoy the hydration boost without excess shine. Sensitive skin usually gets on with it too because the extract lacks harsh acids or alcohols. The only group that might take caution are people with a known pea or legume allergy since cross-reactivity, though rare, is possible.

The ingredient is entirely plant derived and produced in a controlled lab culture so it fits vegan and vegetarian standards with no animal by-products involved in its manufacture.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding women. There is no evidence that the extract penetrates deeply or interferes with hormones, yet this is not medical advice and anyone expecting or nursing should run new skincare past a qualified healthcare provider to stay on the safe side.

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract is not known to cause photosensitivity so daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond the usual recommendation to wear SPF.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects and reactions to topical Pisum Sativum Callus Extract can vary from person to person. The points below list potential issues only and are not expected to be the typical user experience when the ingredient is properly formulated.

  • Mild redness or transient stinging in very sensitive skin on first application
  • Localized irritation if applied to broken or compromised skin
  • Contact allergy such as itching or a small rash in individuals with a legume allergy
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any negative effect occurs discontinue use promptly and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract is a water soluble, lightweight ingredient made mostly of peptides, sugars and polyphenols rather than heavy lipids. Because it does not form an occlusive film on skin or sit inside pores it is considered non-comedogenic. This makes it suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

Keep in mind overall pore clogging potential depends on the full formula. If the extract appears alongside rich butters or waxes the finished product may still feel heavy despite the extract itself being pore friendly.

Summary

Pisum Sativum Callus Extract serves as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, humectant, skin conditioning and hair conditioning agent. Its peptides and amino acids help reinforce the skin barrier while polyphenols mop up free radicals that can age the skin. Sugars draw moisture into the upper layers giving a quick hydration boost and a smoother feel. On hair the lightweight proteins coat the shaft to tame frizz and add shine.

The extract has gained traction in clean beauty circles thanks to its lab grown sustainability, yet it remains more of a rising star than a mainstream staple so you may find it in niche serums and conditioners rather than every drugstore shelf.

Safety studies and real-world use show a low risk of irritation or allergy aside from rare legume sensitivities. Still, whenever you try a new product containing Pisum Sativum Callus Extract it is smart to run a quick patch test first just to be sure your skin stays happy.

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