What Is Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract?
Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract comes from the bright orange fruit of Solanum quitoense, a tropical shrub native to the Andean regions of Colombia, Ecuador and Peru where it is popularly called naranjilla or lulo. The fruit is naturally rich in vitamin C, sugars, pectins, phenolic antioxidants and small amounts of natural acids that give it a gentle astringent quality. Long valued locally as a refreshing beverage and a source of skin soothing poultices, it attracted cosmetic formulators who were looking for plant based ingredients that hydrate, soften and protect both hair and skin.
To make the extract, ripe fruits are harvested, washed and pulped before undergoing a gentle water-glycerin or hydroalcoholic extraction. The liquid is filtered to remove fibers and seeds, then concentrated and standardized so that the level of active compounds remains consistent from batch to batch. Finally, the extract is stabilized—often with food grade preservatives—so it stays fresh when blended into finished products.
You will most often find Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract in moisturizing face creams, lightweight serums, hydrating sheet masks, after-sun gels, hair conditioners, leave-in sprays and smoothing masks aimed at adding shine and softness.
Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
When added to a formula this fruit based extract offers two primary benefits
- Hair conditioning – the natural sugars and pectins form a light film that smooths the cuticle helping hair feel softer, look shinier and resist static without weighing it down
- Skin conditioning – vitamins and antioxidants support a healthy looking barrier while the mild fruit acids provide a touch of refinement so skin feels hydrated, supple and comfortable
Who Can Use Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract
This gentle fruit extract suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination and even oily skin because it hydrates without leaving a greasy film. Sensitive skin generally tolerates it too thanks to its low acid content, though anyone with a known allergy to nightshade plants should be cautious since Solanum quitoense is part of that family.
The ingredient is plant derived and typically processed with water, glycerin or plant based solvents so it is considered suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Current safety data show no specific risks for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding when the extract is used in rinse off or leave on cosmetics. This is not medical advice and anyone who is pregnant or nursing should confirm with a healthcare provider before adding new products to a routine.
Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract does not cause photosensitivity, so it can be applied morning or night without raising the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. It also plays well with common actives like niacinamide and hyaluronic acid, making it easy to slot into most routines.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Reactions to topical Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential side effects that may occur in rare cases. Most users experience none of these issues when the ingredient is included at normal cosmetic levels.
- Allergic contact dermatitis – Itching, redness or rash can occur in individuals allergic to nightshade fruits
- Mild stinging or burning – A transient tingling may be felt on very sensitive or broken skin due to the fruit’s natural acids
- Eye irritation – If the product accidentally gets into the eyes it may cause watering or discomfort
- Interaction with strong exfoliants – Layering with high strength alpha or beta hydroxy acids could increase overall skin sensitivity
If any of these reactions appear stop use immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
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The extract is largely composed of water, natural sugars and pectins with negligible oil content so it does not linger on the skin or trap sebum inside pores. Its usual inclusion level in formulas is low which further reduces any clogging potential.
This makes it a friendly choice for anyone who struggles with acne or frequent breakouts.
Remember that the overall pore friendliness of a finished product also depends on the other ingredients in the formula, not just the fruit extract itself.
Summary
Solanum Quitoense Fruit Extract gently conditions hair by forming a thin sugar and pectin veil that smooths strands for softness and light reflecting shine. On skin it pairs antioxidant vitamin C with mild fruit acids to bolster the barrier, support an even tone and maintain comfortable hydration.
It is not yet a household name but its tropical origin and multitasking nature are helping it pop up in more niche serums, masks and conditioners each year.
Safety data rate the extract as low risk with few reported reactions, though individual allergies can never be ruled out. Patch test any new product that features this ingredient to be sure it suits your own skin or scalp.