Salsola Komarovii 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 Salsola Komarovii Extract?

Salsola Komarovii Extract comes from Salsola komarovii, a hardy seaside plant in the amaranth family that thrives in salty soils across East Asia. The whole plant is harvested then steeped in a mix of water and gentle solvents to pull out its skin-friendly components such as sugars, amino acids, minerals and lightweight lipids. After filtration and concentration, the resulting liquid is standardized for use in cosmetics.

Historically the plant was valued in coastal communities as a vegetable and folk remedy for dry itchy skin. As modern formulators looked for botanical alternatives to petrolatum and heavy oils, they rediscovered Salsola komarovii for its ability to soften skin without leaving a greasy feel. Today the extract appears in moisturizers, hydrating masks, soothing gels, after-sun products, anti-aging serums and hand or body creams where a light emollient touch is desired.

Salsola Komarovii Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This botanical offers two main functions in topical products

  • Skin conditioning – the blend of natural sugars and amino acids attracts water to the skin surface helping improve suppleness and a healthy-looking glow
  • Emollient – the extract supplies lightweight lipids that fill in rough spots on the skin barrier leaving it smoother softer and more comfortable

Who Can Use Salsola Komarovii Extract

Salsola Komarovii Extract is gentle enough for nearly all skin types. Dry and mature skin benefit from its water-binding sugars while sensitive or combination skin appreciate the light non-greasy finish. Oily or acne-prone users usually tolerate it well because it lacks heavy pore-clogging oils.

The extract comes solely from a coastal plant and is processed without animal-derived additives, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

No data suggest the ingredient poses specific risks to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Its molecules are large and designed to stay on the surface of the skin, not enter the bloodstream. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should still confirm product choices with a healthcare provider.

Salsola Komarovii Extract does not increase photosensitivity, so it will not make skin more prone to sunburn. It layers well with most other skincare actives and can be used morning or night.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Salsola Komarovii Extract vary from person to person. The points below outline potential side effects that could occur, though most users will not experience them when using a well-formulated product.

  • Temporary redness or warmth in very sensitive skin
  • Mild itching or tingling during the first few uses
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to plants from the amaranth family
  • Stinging if applied to open cuts or compromised skin barriers

If any discomfort develops, stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 out of 5

Salsola Komarovii Extract is built around water soluble sugars, amino acids and only trace levels of light lipids so it rarely blocks pores. Because it lacks the dense waxes and fatty acids that normally create buildup, the extract earns a near non-comedogenic score. People who struggle with acne or frequent breakouts can usually use it without worrying about extra congestion.

Clogging is more likely to come from heavier butters or oils paired with the extract in a finished formula, so pore-conscious shoppers should still review the full ingredient list.

Summary

Salsola Komarovii Extract conditions skin by attracting water with its natural sugars and smooths rough spots with a feather-light emollient film. These dual actions leave the complexion soft, hydrated and comfortable.

The extract is not yet a mainstream superstar but its ability to give moisture without heaviness is winning it a steady place in modern moisturizers, soothing gels and after-sun products.

Overall safety is high with only rare reports of minor irritation. Even so each person’s skin is unique, so doing a quick patch test before full use is a smart move when trying anything that contains Salsola Komarovii Extract.

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