Solidago Odora 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 Solidago Odora Extract?

Solidago Odora Extract comes from the flowering plant commonly known as sweet goldenrod. Native to North America, sweet goldenrod has long been appreciated by Indigenous peoples and early settlers for its pleasant anise-like scent. In cosmetics the plant is harvested, dried and then steeped in a solvent such as water or a mix of water and glycerin. This pulls out its helpful sugars, flavonoids and small amounts of essential oil, creating a liquid extract that can be blended into skin care formulas.

Interest in goldenrod grew when formulators noticed its calming and softening effect on the skin, leading to its inclusion in modern beauty products. You are most likely to see Solidago Odora Extract in soothing face masks, daily moisturizers, after-sun gels and gentle anti-aging creams where a touch of plant comfort is desired.

Solidago Odora Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

Solidago Odora Extract is prized for its skin conditioning ability, meaning it helps keep skin feeling smooth, hydrated and comfortable. By supplying lightweight plant sugars and natural humectants it supports the skin’s moisture barrier, which in turn can make the complexion look softer and healthier.

Who Can Use Solidago Odora Extract

Sweet goldenrod extract is gentle enough for most skin types including dry, normal, combination and sensitive. Its lightweight skin conditioning properties add softness without leaving a greasy finish so oily or blemish-prone skin can usually enjoy it as well. There are no known reasons it would be unsuitable for any specific skin type outside of individual allergies.

The extract is plant-derived and typically processed without animal ingredients, making it appropriate for vegans and vegetarians as long as the finished formula does not contain animal by-products elsewhere.

No specific warnings exist for pregnant or breastfeeding users, yet out of caution anyone who is expecting or nursing should ask their healthcare professional before adding new topical products. This information is educational only and not medical advice.

Solidago Odora Extract does not increase the skin’s sensitivity to sunlight, so standard daily sun protection is sufficient.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Side effects from topical Solidago Odora Extract vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions yet most people will not experience them when the ingredient is used properly in a well-formulated product.

  • Allergic contact dermatitis
  • Redness or irritation in those sensitive to plants from the Asteraceae family (ragweed, chamomile, marigold)
  • Mild itching or stinging on very compromised or broken skin

If any uncomfortable reaction occurs, stop use immediately and seek advice from a medical professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 1 / 5

Solidago Odora Extract is a water based botanical packed with sugars and flavonoids rather than heavy oils or waxes, so it rarely clogs pores. That light composition earns it a low score of 1.

Because of this low rating the extract is generally a safe choice for acne prone or breakout prone skin.

Keep in mind the final product formula matters. If the extract is blended with rich butters or occlusive silicones the overall pore clogging potential could climb even though the extract itself is low risk.

Summary

Solidago Odora Extract is valued for skin conditioning, meaning it lends softness, lightweight hydration and a calm feel. Its natural sugars draw moisture to the surface while plant flavonoids soothe, letting skin look smoother and healthier without residue.

Though not as famous as ingredients like vitamin C or retinol, sweet goldenrod has been quietly slipping into modern moisturizers, masks and after sun gels thanks to its gentle nature and pleasant scent.

Reports of adverse effects are rare, so the extract is considered safe for most users. Still every complexion is unique, so give any new product containing Solidago Odora Extract a quick patch test before regular use just to be sure.

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