Sigesbeckia Orientalis 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 Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract?

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract comes from the leaves of the holy herb Sigesbeckia orientalis L., a small flowering plant in the daisy family. The leaves are harvested, dried then soaked in a blend of water and gentle solvents to pull out the useful compounds. The resulting liquid is filtered and concentrated to create the cosmetic-grade extract that goes into skin care formulas.

The plant has a long history in folk care where it was valued for soothing tired skin. Modern cosmetic labs took note of these stories and began testing the extract for its skin benefits. Today it shows up in products that focus on comfort and renewal.

Chemically the extract contains natural sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of acids that help condition the skin. It also holds trace minerals that give it a mild toning feel.

You will most often find Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract in daily moisturizers, anti-aging serums, calming masks, targeted eye creams and after-sun lotions. It is usually added in the water phase of a formula at low to moderate levels so it can blend easily with other skin-friendly ingredients.

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

This plant extract offers a pair of helpful actions that make it a welcome addition to many skin care lines.

  • Skin Conditioning: Helps soften and smooth the surface of the skin, supporting a healthy moisture balance and giving products a comforting feel
  • Tonic: Provides a light tightening and refreshing sensation that can make skin appear more awake and refined

Who Can Use Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract is gentle enough for most skin types. Normal, dry, sensitive or mature skin often benefits from its softening and lightly toning nature while oily or acne-prone skin can still enjoy it as it does not leave a greasy film or add heavy oils. People with known allergies to plants in the daisy family should stay cautious because the extract comes from the same botanical group and could trigger a reaction.

The ingredient is entirely plant derived with no animal by-products or animal testing linked to its sourcing so it is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians.

Current data shows no specific issues for pregnant or breastfeeding women when the extract is used topically at the low levels found in cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should check with a doctor before adding new skincare to their routine.

The extract is not known to cause photosensitivity and can be used in both day and night products without raising sun-related concerns.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Responses to topical Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract differ from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that have been reported or may occur in rare cases. Assuming the formula is made correctly most users will not run into these issues.

  • Mild redness or warmth slight flushing can appear on very reactive skin
  • Temporary itching or tingling usually subsides quickly once the product settles
  • Contact dermatitis rare but possible if someone is allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family
  • Increased sensitivity when combined with strong actives pairing the extract with high levels of retinoids or acids could heighten irritation in susceptible skin

If any unwanted reaction occurs discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or dermatologist for guidance

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

The extract is mostly water based and contains very little oil so it is unlikely to clog pores. Its sugars, flavonoids and trace minerals sit lightly on the skin and rinse away easily. Because there are no rich butters or heavy waxes in its profile the risk of blocked pores stays low.

That makes Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract generally fine for people who break out easily, though overall formula and routine still matter.

Some products pair the extract with occlusive ingredients such as petrolatum or thick silicones. In those cases comedogenicity depends more on the full formula than on the plant extract itself.

Summary

Sigesbeckia Orientalis Extract works as a skin conditioner and gentle tonic. Its natural sugars attract light moisture while flavonoids and mild acids smooth and refresh so skin feels softer and looks a bit firmer after use.

The ingredient sits in a niche spot: known among formulators who want a calm, plant based booster yet not as famous as hyaluronic acid or green tea. You will see it sprinkled through soothing creams, eye gels and after sun lotions rather than headlining mainstream ads.

Safety data so far is favorable, with low irritation reports when used at typical cosmetic levels. As with any new skincare product you should do a quick patch test first to check personal tolerance, especially if you have very reactive or allergy prone skin.

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