Pyrrosia Hastata 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 Pyrrosia Hastata Extract?

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract is a plant derived ingredient obtained from the whole Pyrrosia hastata fern, a member of the Polypodiaceae family that grows in East Asia’s temperate forests. The fern has long been valued in traditional topical preparations thanks to its soothing nature and its natural store of sugars, amino acids and antioxidant flavonoids that help plants hold moisture and fend off environmental stress. To create the cosmetic grade extract, freshly harvested ferns are cleaned, dried then soaked in a water and gentle solvent mixture. The liquid is filtered, concentrated and finally spray dried to yield a fine powder or fluid that can be measured precisely into formulas. Makers add Pyrrosia Hastata Extract to a range of leave on and rinse off products including hydrating sheet masks, lightweight facial gels, daily moisturizers, after sun lotions and anti aging serums that aim to support a smooth healthy looking complexion.

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In skin care this botanical serves a single key role.

Skin conditioning: the extract supplies water binding sugars and soothing plant compounds that help soften the skin surface, maintain moisture balance and give finished formulas a calm comforting feel.

Who Can Use Pyrrosia Hastata Extract

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination, normal and sensitive skin because it supplies lightweight hydration without clogging pores or leaving a greasy film. Those with an existing allergy to ferns or members of the Polypodiaceae family should avoid it as a precaution.

The extract is entirely plant derived so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians and no animal by-products are used during its production.

No specific warnings have been issued for topical use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. The ingredient is considered low risk when applied to intact skin, but this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a qualified healthcare professional before adding new products to their routine.

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract does not increase photosensitivity and can be used in daytime formulas alongside daily sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Pyrrosia Hastata Extract differ from person to person. The effects listed below are possible yet unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Skin irritation: transient stinging or burning can occur on very sensitive or compromised skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis: redness, itching or rash may develop in individuals allergic to ferns or related plants
  • Cross sensitivity: rare flare ups in users already reactive to other botanical extracts within the Polypodiaceae family
  • Formula related reactions: discomfort caused by other components such as fragrances or preservatives that are present alongside the extract

If any persistent discomfort, redness or swelling appears stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract is a water based botanical with virtually no oily or waxy fractions so it does not linger in pores or create the kind of film that can trap sebum and debris. Because of its lightweight hydrating sugars and amino acids it actually helps keep the skin surface comfortable without adding occlusive residue.

Suitable for acne prone or breakout prone skin.

No comedogenicity studies have been published specifically on this fern, but its composition is comparable to other aqueous plant extracts that consistently test at zero.

Summary

Pyrrosia Hastata Extract is used in cosmetics for skin conditioning. It draws in moisture with natural sugars, calms with antioxidant flavonoids and leaves skin feeling soft and refreshed without heaviness. While not a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, formulators who favor gentle botanical blends are gradually adding it to hydrating gels, sheet masks and soothing lotions.

Overall safety is high with low risk of irritation or clogging, provided the user is not allergic to ferns. As with any new skincare product a quick patch test is wise before full face application.

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