Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf 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: June 30, 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 Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract?

Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from the branches, blooms and foliage of Rosa luciae, a wild rose native to East Asia. Like other rose plants it contains a cocktail of natural sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of fragrant essential oils that help the plant retain moisture and defend itself from environmental stress. These same compounds give the extract its value in skin care.

Traditional herbalists in Japan and China have long used pieces of the Rosa luciae plant to soothe rough skin and add a pleasant scent to baths. Modern formulators took note and began adding standardized extracts to creams and lotions in the late 20th century when gentle, plant based actives grew popular. Today manufacturers usually create the extract by soaking finely milled branches, petals and leaves in a mixture of water and food grade alcohol. After several hours the liquid is filtered and concentrated, producing a clear to pale pink fluid that blends easily into cosmetic bases.

You will most often spot Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract in hydrating toners, sheet masks, lightweight moisturizers, after sun gels and soothing anti aging serums where a calm, refreshing skin feel is desired.

Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This rosy extract is prized for one main role in skin care formulations.

Skin conditioning: The natural sugars and polyphenols bind water to the surface of the skin, leaving it feeling soft, supple and lightly refreshed. Regular use can improve overall texture, reduce the feeling of tightness after cleansing and support a healthy looking complexion.

Who Can Use Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract

This gentle botanical suits most skin types including normal, dry, combination and sensitive because it hydrates without leaving an oily film or heavy residue. Oily or acne-prone users can also benefit since the extract is water based and non greasy, though those who react badly to any plant matter should proceed cautiously.

The extract is plant derived with no animal inputs so it is appropriate for both vegetarians and vegans.

No data suggest that the ingredient poses unique risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when used topically in typical cosmetic amounts. Still this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of their products to a qualified healthcare provider for individual guidance.

The extract does not cause photosensitivity so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn, though daily sunscreen remains a wise habit.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract vary from person to person. The following points list potential issues that could occur even though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and used as directed.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis: Rare but possible for individuals with a specific allergy to rose family plants
  • Irritation or redness: May occur in very sensitive skin if the product contains high concentrations of the extract or residual alcohol from extraction
  • Stinging on broken skin: Plant acids and trace alcohol can briefly sting if applied to freshly exfoliated or compromised areas

If any of these reactions develop discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5 (non-comedogenic)

Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract is almost entirely water soluble and contains minimal oils or waxes, so it does not clog pores or form a heavy film on the skin. Its main components are lightweight humectant sugars and polyphenols that rinse away easily and leave little residue. Because of this, the extract is generally suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

No notable interactions with acne medications or actives have been reported, so it layers well with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or retinoids without boosting the chance of congestion.

Summary

Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract acts primarily as a skin-conditioning agent. The naturally occurring sugars draw moisture to the surface while the polyphenols provide a mild soothing effect, leaving skin soft supple and comfortable.

Although not as famous as rose hip or damask rose extracts, this wild rose derivative is gaining quiet popularity among formulators looking for gentle plant-based hydrators that fit into minimalist ingredient lists.

Safety data and user experience point to a very low risk profile when the extract is used in typical cosmetic concentrations. Still, skin is personal so it is wise to patch test any new product containing Rosa Luciae Branch/Flower/Leaf Extract before applying it to the whole face.

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