What Is Tiliroside?
Tiliroside is a plant-derived compound technically known as kaempferol-3-O-6-O-trans-p-coumaroyl-β-glucopyranoside. It is a natural flavonoid glycoside most often extracted from linden flowers, rose hips and strawberry leaves. Because these plants have long been used in folk remedies for calming and soothing the skin, researchers began isolating tiliroside in the late 20th century to capture those benefits in a pure form suitable for modern cosmetics.
To obtain tiliroside, producers start with dried plant material, run it through an alcohol-water extraction, then use filtration and chromatography to separate out the desired molecule. The result is a fine powder that dissolves well in cosmetic oils or water-based gels, making it easy for formulators to add precise amounts to their products.
You will most often spot tiliroside in leave-on products that aim to comfort or nourish the skin, such as moisturizers, anti-aging serums, after-sun lotions, calming face masks and eye treatments. Its gentle nature means it can also appear in products made for sensitive or redness-prone skin.
Tiliroside’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
Tiliroside is prized in skincare for one key reason.
Skin conditioning: By supporting the skin’s natural barrier and helping it hold on to moisture, tiliroside leaves the surface feeling softer, smoother and better protected against daily stressors
Who Can Use Tiliroside
Tiliroside is considered friendly for every major skin type including dry, normal, combination, oily and sensitive skin because it focuses on barrier support rather than exfoliation or strong active resurfacing. Those with very reactive or allergy-prone skin may still wish to monitor for any personal sensitivities, but the ingredient itself is classed as gentle.
As a plant-derived compound obtained from flowers, leaves or fruits, tiliroside is suitable for both vegans and vegetarians. No animal-based raw materials or byproducts are involved in its extraction or processing.
Current research has not flagged any specific concerns for pregnant or breastfeeding women when tiliroside is used topically in standard cosmetic doses. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full product ingredient list to a qualified healthcare provider before use to stay on the safe side.
Tiliroside does not make skin more vulnerable to the sun so it is considered non-photosensitising. It can comfortably be used in morning or evening routines alongside sunscreen. There are no known issues with using it under makeup or in combination with common actives like niacinamide or hyaluronic acid.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Responses to topical tiliroside can vary from person to person. The points below list potential, but unlikely, effects that might arise even when a product is well formulated and used as directed. Most users will experience none of these issues.
- Mild redness or flushing
- Itching or a stinging sensation on application
- Localized swelling suggesting an allergic response
- Dry patches if the formula contains a high alcohol content alongside tiliroside
- Eye irritation if the product accidentally gets into the eye area
If any of the above reactions occur discontinue use immediately and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0
Tiliroside is a small, water- and alcohol-soluble molecule that does not leave an oily or waxy film on the skin. Because it is typically used at very low concentrations and is not occlusive, it is highly unlikely to clog pores. For that reason it earns a solid 0 on the comedogenic scale.
Suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
No data suggest it encourages bacterial growth or alters sebum production so there are no hidden concerns related to congestion.
Summary
Tiliroside is a plant-based flavonoid that conditions the skin by strengthening its surface barrier and helping it hold onto water. This leaves skin feeling smoother, softer and more resilient against daily stress.
Although you will not see it headlining as often as hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, tiliroside is quietly gaining attention among formulators who want a gentle botanical for calming and hydrating benefits.
Current research supports its safety for all skin types when used as directed. As with any new skincare ingredient, patch testing a small area first is a smart way to confirm personal tolerance before applying it more broadly.