Sambucus Williamsii Stem 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 Williamsii Stem Extract?

Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract is a botanical ingredient obtained from the stems of Sambucus williamsii, a species of elderberry native to East Asia. The stems are rich in plant sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of natural acids that help the plant defend itself against environmental stress. Traditional Chinese topical remedies have long featured elder stems and bark for their soothing feel on skin, which caught the attention of modern formulators looking for gentle plant-based additives. To make the extract, harvested stems are washed, shredded and steeped in a water-or-glycerin solution, then filtered and concentrated to yield a clear to light-brown liquid. You will usually spot this extract in moisturizers, hydrating sheet masks, calming serums, hand creams and general anti-aging lotions where a mild, nature-sourced skin conditioner is desired.

Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

In cosmetics Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract is valued for one primary role: skin conditioning. By forming a light film and attracting water to the upper skin layers, the extract helps improve softness and suppleness, leaving skin feeling smoother and more comfortable. It can also help support the performance of other moisturizing agents in the formula, contributing to an overall healthier-looking complexion.

Who Can Use Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract

Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract is considered gentle enough for most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily skin. Its lightweight hydrating action benefits skin that feels tight or rough without adding heavy occlusive oils, making it suitable even for those prone to breakouts. Extremely sensitive or highly reactive skin should still approach any new botanical with caution since individual responses can differ.

The extract is plant derived with no animal by-products involved in harvesting or processing, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian preferences.

No specific data suggest problems for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically in cosmetic amounts. This is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should review their skincare choices with a healthcare professional to be certain.

The ingredient is not known to increase photosensitivity, so routine daytime use does not require extra sun precautions beyond a normal broad-spectrum sunscreen.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical use of Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract vary from person to person. The following list covers potential reactions, though most users will not experience them when the ingredient is properly formulated and applied.

  • Mild redness or stinging in very sensitive skin
  • Itching or small bumps indicating an allergic response
  • Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to elderberry or related plants
  • Interaction with other strong actives that may heighten irritation, such as high-percentage acids or retinoids

If any discomfort, rash or prolonged irritation occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 (very low likelihood of clogging pores)

Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract is a water-based botanical with little to no oil-forming components, so it does not leave an occlusive film that traps sebum or debris in pores. Formulas typically include it at modest percentages alongside lightweight humectants, which keeps the overall pore-clogging risk minimal.

Because of its low rating it is generally considered suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.

If the extract is blended into a product rich in heavy oils or waxes the finished product’s comedogenicity will depend more on those other ingredients than on the extract itself.

Summary

Sambucus Williamsii Stem Extract acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent that boosts surface hydration and softness by drawing water to the upper layers and leaving a light, smooth feel. The sugars, flavonoids and mild acids naturally present in the stems help support this moisturising effect and offer a soothing sensorial touch.

While not yet a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it has a quiet presence in moisturisers, sheet masks and calming lotions that favour gentle plant derivatives. Brands looking for clean label supports often add it for an extra hydration claim without heaviness.

Current data show it to be safe for most users with a very low risk of irritation or pore congestion, yet skin is personal so it is always smart to patch test any new product containing this extract before full-face use.

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