Prunus Persica Wood 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 Persica Wood Extract?

Prunus Persica Wood Extract comes from the wood of the common peach tree, a member of the rose family. While the fruit is celebrated for its sweet taste, the wood itself holds a mix of natural compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids and small amounts of lignans that have a mild soothing effect on skin. The idea of using peach wood traces back to traditional crafts where shavings were brewed into calming infusions; as cosmetic science advanced formulators noticed these same plant molecules could help soften and comfort skin. Commercial production usually starts with pruned branches that would otherwise be discarded. They are dried, ground and then soaked in a water or gentle solvent bath to pull out the active components, followed by filtration and concentration into a stable liquid or powder. You will spot this extract in moisturizers, serums, anti-aging creams, sheet masks, after-sun lotions and other leave-on treatments where a light conditioning touch is desired.

Prunus Persica Wood Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Used in formulas for its skin-conditioning ability, Prunus Persica Wood Extract helps keep the surface of your skin feeling soft, smooth and comfortable. It can add a subtle boost of hydration, support a healthier skin barrier and leave a silky after-feel that improves the overall user experience of a product.

Who Can Use Prunus Persica Wood Extract

Because it is a gentle plant-based conditioner, Prunus Persica Wood Extract suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin. Oily and acne-prone users can also try it since the extract is lightweight and does not add heavy oils that might clog pores. There are no known reasons for extremely reactive or compromised skin to avoid it, but anyone with a diagnosed peach or tree nut allergy should steer clear due to possible cross-reactivity.

The extract is obtained entirely from peach tree wood without any animal derivatives, so it is considered suitable for both vegetarians and vegans.

Current data shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the ingredient is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. That said, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should consult a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products, just to be safe.

Prunus Persica Wood Extract is not known to produce photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more vulnerable to sunburn. Standard daytime sun protection is still recommended whenever you use leave-on products.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Prunus Persica Wood Extract can differ from person to person. The reactions listed below are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is correctly formulated and used as intended.

  • Skin redness or mild irritation
  • Itching or a stinging sensation in highly sensitive individuals
  • Contact dermatitis in people allergic to peaches or related fruits
  • Rare cases of eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eyes

If any discomfort or unusual reaction occurs stop using the product and seek advice from a qualified healthcare provider.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0

Prunus Persica Wood Extract is made up mostly of water soluble plant compounds rather than fatty oils or waxes that can block pores. Because it lacks heavy lipids and is used at low concentrations, it is considered non-comedogenic.

This makes the extract suitable for skin that is prone to acne or breakouts.

No studies suggest it worsens blackheads or whiteheads, and it is often paired with lightweight gels and lotions that already target oily skin.

Summary

Prunus Persica Wood Extract is a gentle plant ingredient that conditions skin by adding a touch of hydration, calming minor redness and helping the surface feel smooth. It does this through naturally occurring polyphenols and flavonoids that bind water and soothe the outer layer.

The extract is still a bit of a niche player compared with famous botanicals like aloe or chamomile, though it pops up more often in modern K-beauty and clean beauty lines that like novel fruit sources.

Overall safety is high; reactions are rare unless you have a peach allergy. As with any new skincare product, perform a quick patch test first to make sure your skin agrees with the formula.

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