Prunus Cerasus Stalk 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 Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract?

Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract comes from the stalks of the bitter cherry tree, a small fruit tree native to parts of Europe and Western Asia. While the juicy red fruit is well known for baking and preserves, the stalks were traditionally brewed in herbal teas for their soothing properties. Cosmetic chemists took note of the stalks because they hold natural sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of mineral salts that can help bind water to the skin.

The extract is typically produced by collecting dried cherry stalks, grinding them, then soaking the plant material in a mix of water and gentle solvents. After a period of maceration, the liquid is filtered and concentrated, removing excess solvent and leaving behind a clear to pale yellow fluid rich in skin-friendly compounds.

Thanks to its hydrating and comforting profile, formulators add Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract to moisturizers, hydrating serums, calming masks, after-sun lotions and anti-aging creams where extra softness and suppleness are desired.

Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skincare formulas Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract serves one main purpose: skin conditioning. By drawing moisture to the surface and helping it stay there, the extract leaves the skin feeling smoother and more elastic. Regular use can give a refreshed look, lessen feelings of tightness and support a healthier skin barrier which in turn helps other active ingredients perform better.

Who Can Use Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract

This gentle plant extract suits most skin types, especially normal, dry and sensitive skin that craves a moisture boost. Oily or blemish-prone complexions can still benefit as long as the rest of the formula feels lightweight because the extract itself is non-oily and water soluble.

Because it is entirely derived from a cherry tree and no animal components are required for its production, Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract is considered vegan and vegetarian friendly. Always double-check the full ingredient list of a finished product to be sure no animal-based additives have been included elsewhere in the formula.

No data indicate specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review any skincare product with their physician to stay on the safe side.

The extract does not contain known photosensitizers so it does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight. Standard daytime sun protection is still advised whenever you spend time outdoors. The ingredient is water based, mixes well with most actives and does not interfere with makeup wear or sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract can vary between individuals. The following possible side effects are uncommon but worth noting when trying a new product that contains the extract, assuming it has been formulated and preserved correctly.

  • Mild redness or warmth
  • Temporary itching or tingling
  • Localised rash in people allergic to cherries or related fruits
  • Stinging if applied to broken or freshly exfoliated skin
  • Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If you notice any of these reactions stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract is water based and contains mainly lightweight humectants rather than oils or waxes, so it does not sit in pores or form an occlusive film that could trap debris. Because it lacks fatty acids that are typically linked with breakouts, the likelihood of clogging pores is extremely low.

That means the extract is considered suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin. Just remember the overall pore friendliness of any finished product also depends on the other ingredients in the formula and how it is preserved.

Summary

Prunus Cerasus Stalk Extract is valued in cosmetics as a skin conditioning agent that pulls moisture to the surface, softens rough spots and supports a resilient skin barrier. It does this thanks to natural sugars, flavonoids and trace minerals that behave like humectants while offering a mild soothing effect.

The extract is still a niche botanical rather than a headline act, so you will mostly find it in gentle moisturizers, hydrating serums and after sun lotions where formulators use it to round out a hydration profile.

Topically it is viewed as very safe for the vast majority of users, with only rare reports of mild irritation or fruit related allergy. Whenever you add a new product containing this ingredient to your routine, a quick patch test on a small area is a smart way to confirm personal compatibility.

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