Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture 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 Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract?

Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract comes from Ulmus davidiana, an elm tree native to East Asia. Instead of harvesting the whole plant, scientists take a small piece of tissue and grow it into a callus—a mass of undifferentiated plant cells—under sterile lab conditions. This approach is sustainable because the tree stays unharmed while producers still obtain a steady supply of active material.

During growth the callus cells build up skin-loving molecules such as polysaccharides that help hold water, soothing phenolic compounds and tiny amounts of amino acids and minerals. Once the culture reaches a desired density it is collected, gently extracted with water or a mild solvent, then filtered and concentrated into a clear liquid or fine powder that becomes the finished cosmetic ingredient.

Brands add Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract to a wide range of formulas. You will often see it in hydrating sheet masks, calming serums, anti-aging creams, lightweight lotions and after-sun gels where extra moisture and comfort are welcome.

Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses

The main role of this extract in skin care is skin conditioning, meaning it helps keep the surface of the skin soft, smooth and healthy. Its natural sugars attract and bind water so the skin stays hydrated longer, which can reduce the look of roughness and fine lines. At the same time its mild antioxidant and calming components support a more even, comfortable complexion.

Who Can Use Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract

This extract is gentle and suits most skin types, including dry, normal, combination and oily. Its water-binding sugars give dry skin extra moisture while its light, non-greasy texture will not weigh down oily or breakout-prone skin. Sensitive skin usually tolerates it well thanks to its calming properties, though anyone with a known allergy to elm family plants should proceed carefully.

Because it is made from plant cells grown in a lab it contains no animal-derived material, so it fits vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.

There is no evidence that the ingredient is unsafe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Still, this is not medical advice and anyone who is expecting or nursing should show their skin care routine to a qualified doctor to be safe.

Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight and can be used in both day and night products.

Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions

Reactions to topical Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract differ from person to person. The following list covers potential side effects, though most users will not notice any problems when the ingredient is formulated and used as intended.

Skin redness or irritation

Mild itching

Contact dermatitis in individuals allergic to elm species

If you notice any of these issues stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.

Comedogenic Rating

Rating: 0 / 5

Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract is water based and contains mainly lightweight sugars and polyphenols, not oils or waxes that can clog pores. Current literature and product experience do not link it to breakouts, so it sits at the bottom of the comedogenic scale.

Suitable for acne-prone and breakout-prone skin.

No special storage or formulation concerns alter its pore-friendly profile, though overall product design still matters for those watching their acne triggers.

Summary

Ulmus Davidiana Callus Culture Extract conditions skin by drawing in moisture with its natural sugars and calming the surface with gentle antioxidants. These actions leave skin softer, smoother and more comfortable.

While not yet a household name it is gaining traction in hydrating masks and soothing serums thanks to its sustainable sourcing and pleasant skin feel.

Available safety data shows low irritation potential for most users, making it a safe choice in modern formulas. As with any new cosmetic ingredient you should patch test a fresh product before full-face use just to stay on the safe side.

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