Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture 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 Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract?

Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract comes from the callus, or undifferentiated plant cells, of Sambucus latipinna, a species related to elderberry in the Adoxaceae family. Scientists take a tiny piece of the plant, place it in a sterile, nutrient-rich medium and stimulate it to form a mass of cells called a callus. These cells are then grown in controlled lab conditions, harvested and processed to obtain a concentrated extract.

The resulting material is rich in plant metabolites such as polysaccharides, amino acids and phenolic compounds that help support skin comfort and hydration. Because this approach relies on cell culture, it avoids seasonal changes and environmental contaminants that can affect field-grown plants, giving formulators a consistent ingredient.

Plant cell culture technology gained popularity in cosmetics in the early 2000s when brands began looking for sustainable sources of active botanicals. Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract followed as part of this trend, offering a novel elderberry-derived component that could be produced without harvesting large amounts of wild or farmed plants.

You will most often see this extract in moisturizers, soothing serums, sheet masks, after-sun gels and anti-aging blends where a gentle, conditioning plant active is desired.

Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This ingredient is valued for one primary function in skin care formulas.

Skin conditioning: The mix of natural sugars, proteins and antioxidants helps soften skin, improve surface hydration and support a calm, comfortable feel. Formulators use it to boost moisturization, reduce the look of dryness and enhance the overall sensory profile of creams, lotions, masks and leave-on treatments.

Who Can Use Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract

Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Dry or mature skin may appreciate its moisture boosting properties while sensitive skin usually tolerates it because it lacks harsh acids or fragrances. Oily and combination skin can also use it since the extract itself is lightweight and not known to clog pores.

The ingredient is plant derived and produced in controlled lab conditions with no animal sourced components so it suits both vegans and vegetarians.

Current data shows no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a healthcare professional before adding new skincare products.

Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract does not increase photosensitivity so normal daytime use is fine, though daily sunscreen is still recommended as part of a healthy routine. The extract also plays well with common actives like niacinamide, panthenol and hyaluronic acid without known conflicts.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions yet most users will not experience them when the ingredient is formulated and used correctly.

  • Mild redness or irritation
  • Itching or stinging on very sensitive skin
  • Allergic contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to elderberry plants
  • Rare swelling or hives in cases of severe plant sensitivity

If any of these effects occur discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0-1 out of 5. Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract is made up of water soluble sugars, amino acids and phenolics that do not leave a greasy residue or occlusive film. Because these molecules rinse away easily and sit lightly on the skin the likelihood of clogged pores is minimal.

It is suitable for people who are prone to acne or frequent breakouts.

No data suggest it worsens blackheads or whiteheads and it is often blended into lightweight gels and serums that target congested skin.

Summary

Sambucus Latipinna Callus Culture Extract functions as a skin conditioner by supplying humectant sugars that attract moisture, amino acids that support surface proteins and antioxidant phenolics that help soothe irritation. These combined actions leave skin softer, better hydrated and more comfortable.

The extract is still a niche ingredient, showing up mainly in mid to high end moisturizers, serums and sheet masks where brands highlight sustainable plant cell culture technology rather than in mainstream products.

Overall safety is high with no known toxicity or photo sensitivity issues. Even so it is wise to patch test any new product containing this extract to make sure your skin agrees with it.

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