Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed 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 Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract?

Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract comes from the seeds of the winged bean, also called the hyacinth bean. The seeds are naturally rich in proteins, amino acids, vitamins and sugars that are friendly to skin. Farmers have grown winged beans in Southeast Asia for centuries as a food crop, and the nourishing profile that makes the bean good to eat also makes it appealing for skin care. To create the cosmetic ingredient, the cleaned seeds are milled into a fine powder, then soaked in a mix of water or gentle solvents to pull out the helpful compounds. The liquid is filtered and concentrated, leaving a stable extract that can blend easily into creams and lotions. You will most often spot Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract in moisturizers, anti-aging creams, masks, serums, body lotions and hand creams where it plays the role of a skin loving helper.

Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Formulators turn to this seed extract for one main job in skin care products.

Skin conditioning: The natural proteins and sugars in the extract help skin hold on to water, leaving it softer and smoother. Regular use can support a healthy skin barrier, improve overall texture and give formulas a silky, pleasant feel when they are applied.

Who Can Use Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract

This seed extract is gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal and combination skin. Oily and acne-prone users can also benefit from its lightweight hydration as it does not add excess oil. People with very sensitive skin or a known allergy to legumes should proceed with extra care because the plant is part of the bean family.

Because it is entirely plant derived and free from animal by-products, Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current research shows no specific risks for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in standard cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new products to a routine.

The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It also plays well with most other common skin care ingredients and does not interfere with makeup wear.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible outcomes, not the norm. When the ingredient is used at proper cosmetic levels most people experience no problems.

  • Skin irritation – mild stinging or burning can occur, especially on compromised skin
  • Redness or flushing – temporary pinkness may appear after application
  • Itching – some users may notice a light itch as the product dries
  • Allergic reaction – very rare, but those with legume allergies could develop hives or swelling

If any negative reaction develops stop using the product and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 (very low)

Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract is made up mainly of water-binding proteins, amino acids and sugars, not heavy oils or waxes that typically clog pores. Its lightweight molecular profile lets it sit on the skin without forming a thick film, which keeps the risk of blocked pores minimal.

Because of this low rating it is generally considered suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts.

Keep in mind that finished formulas matter too. If the product also contains richer oils or butters it could still feel heavy on oily skin even though the seed extract itself is nearly non-comedogenic.

Summary

Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus Seed Extract is mainly used as a skin-conditioning agent that boosts moisture retention, supports the skin barrier and gives creams a silky glide. It achieves these benefits thanks to its natural mix of proteins, amino acids and sugars that bind water and smooth the surface of the skin.

The extract is not a headline-grabbing ingredient but it shows up quietly in a fair number of moisturizers, serums and body lotions where formulators want plant-based hydration without added heaviness.

Safety data and user experience point to a low risk of irritation or pore clogging when the extract is used at normal cosmetic levels. Still, everyone’s skin is unique so it is wise to patch test any new product that contains this or any other active before applying it to the entire face or body.

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