What Is Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract?
Scoparia dulcis, sometimes called sweet broomweed or licorice weed, is a small herb native to tropical regions of the Americas, Africa and Asia. The cosmetic ingredient labeled Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is produced by collecting the aerial parts of the plant, drying them and then steeping them in a mild solvent such as water or a water-glycol mix. The liquid that results is filtered and concentrated to create an easy-to-use extract.
The plant is naturally rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids and small amounts of terpenoids, compounds that help it resist environmental stress in the wild. Centuries of traditional use in folk remedies drew attention to these soothing properties. Over the past decade formulators have explored the extract for leave-on skincare because its gentle profile pairs well with modern clean-beauty goals.
You will usually spot the extract in moisturizers, calming lotions, hydrating serums, after-sun gels, sheet masks and anti-aging blends that promise to leave skin soft and comfortable.
Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In cosmetic formulas this ingredient serves a single main role
Skin conditioning: the blend of plant sugars and flavonoids helps the skin surface hold water, giving a smooth supple feel. Regular use can reduce the look of dryness and rough patches so the complexion appears fresher and more even.
Who Can Use Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract
This extract is considered gentle enough for most skin types including dry, oily, combination and sensitive skin because it is light, water based and non-occlusive. People with a known allergy to the Plantaginaceae family or to herbal infusions in general should approach with caution since any botanical can provoke an individual reaction.
Because the ingredient is 100 percent plant derived it is suitable for vegans and vegetarians and is normally processed without animal by-products.
No specific warnings exist for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should have a quick word with a doctor before adding new skincare, just to be safe.
The extract is not known to raise photosensitivity, so normal daylight exposure is fine. It also plays well with common actives such as niacinamide, panthenol and glycerin, making it easy to slot into a routine.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract can differ from person to person. The issues listed below are possible but unlikely for the average user when the ingredient is used correctly in a finished product.
- Contact allergy – itching or small bumps in those sensitive to the plant family
- Mild redness or warmth – usually short lived and resolves after rinsing
- Stinging on broken or highly irritated skin – may occur if applied to recently exfoliated or compromised areas
If any of these effects occur stop using the product and seek advice from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract is a water-soluble botanical with virtually no heavy oils, butters or waxes that could clog pores. Its small molecules and light texture rinse clean and sit comfortably on the skin surface rather than settling into pores, so it is unlikely to trigger blackheads or whiteheads.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
Because finished formulas vary, the overall pore-clogging potential of a product will depend more on the other ingredients in the blend than on this extract itself.
Summary
Scoparia Dulcis Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract acts mainly as a skin-conditioning agent. Its natural mix of plant sugars, flavonoids and phenolic acids helps skin hold moisture and feel smoother which can soften the look of dry flaky areas.
While not yet a headline ingredient like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, it is appearing more often in gentle moisturizers, soothing serums and clean-beauty launches thanks to its mild plant origin and skin-friendly profile.
Current data points to a high safety margin with only rare reports of irritation or allergy. As with any new skincare product it is wise to do a quick patch test to make sure your skin agrees.