Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell 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 Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract?

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract is an active derived from the cultured cells of sweet almond leaves, part of the rose family. While sweet almond oil has been a skin care staple for centuries, advances in plant cell culture technology let chemists tap into leaf cells instead of relying only on the nut. These cultured cells are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and other natural antioxidants that help the plant defend itself from environmental stress. To create the ingredient, small samples of sweet almond leaf tissue are placed in a sterile nutrient medium where the cells multiply. The resulting biomass is then filtered and the cell material is extracted, standardized and preserved for cosmetic use. The extract appears as a water soluble liquid or powder that blends easily into both water based and emulsion formulas. You will most often see it in serums, anti aging creams, daily moisturizers, after sun products and sheet masks where brands want to boost antioxidant activity and give extra protection from everyday skin stressors.

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This plant cell extract offers a focused duo of benefits that make it a smart addition to modern skin care.

  • Antioxidant: The polyphenols in the extract help neutralize free radicals created by UV light and pollution. Formulas that include it can reduce the look of dullness and help slow the appearance of premature lines caused by oxidative stress.
  • Skin protecting: By reinforcing the skin’s natural barrier and calming the surface, the extract supports resilience against everyday aggressors such as wind or temperature changes. Regular use can leave skin feeling smoother and more comfortable.

Who Can Use Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract

This leaf cell extract is generally well tolerated by all skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin. Its lightweight water soluble profile means it will not clog pores or leave a heavy film, making it suitable even for acne-prone complexions. People with known almond allergies should proceed cautiously since the material is sourced from the sweet almond plant, though the risk is lower than with nut-derived oils.

The ingredient is plant derived with no animal by-products or animal testing typically involved in its manufacture, so it fits vegan and vegetarian preferences.

No specific contraindications are recorded for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. The ingredient is not known to penetrate deeply or disrupt hormones, but this is not medical advice. Expectant or nursing mothers should show any new skincare product to their doctor before use to be safe.

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight and can be used in both day and night formulas. It layers well with common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid and does not interfere with sunscreen performance.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract can vary from person to person. The points below outline potential issues, yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as directed.

  • Mild skin irritation – tingling, warmth or temporary redness can occur on very reactive skin
  • Allergic reaction – rare rash or swelling, more likely in individuals with existing almond sensitivity
  • Contact dermatitis – itching or patchy dryness after repeated use in a compromised skin barrier
  • Stinging near the eyes – if a formula containing the extract migrates too close to the lash line

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

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0/5

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract is water based and contains almost no oils or fatty acids, so it has little chance of blocking pores. The polyphenols and sugars it brings to a formula are light and rinse away easily, which is why it earns a zero on the comedogenic scale.

Because of this low rating, the ingredient is generally suitable for skin that breaks out easily. The only time it could cause congestion is if it is blended into a very rich cream packed with heavy emollients, in which case the overall formula rather than the extract would be the concern.

Summary

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Leaf Cell Extract delivers two clear perks for skin: antioxidant action and added protection. Its flavonoids hunt down free radicals from sun or pollution while its natural sugars and amino acids help reinforce the surface barrier, leaving skin calmer and more resilient.

The ingredient is still a bit of a hidden gem compared to buzzier botanicals, yet you will spot it more often in new serums and moisturizers as brands look for gentle plant based antioxidants.

Safety profiles show it is well tolerated by most users, with only a slim risk for those with almond allergies. As with any new skincare step, try a quick patch test first to confirm your skin feels good about it.

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.
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.