What Is Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract?
Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract is a plant derived ingredient obtained from the leaves of Vitis ficifolia, a wild grape vine that belongs to the grape family. The leaves are naturally rich in sugars, minerals, organic acids and small amounts of polyphenols, all of which can bind water and support skin hydration. Traditional herbal practices in parts of East Asia used these leaves in soothing poultices, and that folk use paved the way for modern formulators to explore the extract for skincare.
To make the extract, freshly harvested leaves are cleaned, dried then steeped in a mixture of water and food grade solvent. The liquid is filtered, the solvent is removed under gentle heat and the remaining solution is concentrated into a stable form such as a liquid concentrate or a dry powder. This manufacturing process retains the hydrating molecules while keeping the extract free from unwanted plant debris.
You are most likely to find Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract in products that focus on moisture balance, such as lightweight moisturizers, hydrating serums, sheet masks, after sun gels and refreshing facial mists. It is often paired with other water attracting ingredients to enhance skin feel and boost the overall moisture profile of a formula.
Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skincare formulas Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract acts as a humectant, meaning it attracts water from the environment and draws it toward the skin. This helps replenish surface moisture, keeps the skin feeling soft and reduces the tightness that can follow cleansing or exposure to dry air.
Who Can Use Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract
Because it is a gentle water-binding ingredient, Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract suits most skin types including dry, normal, combination, oily and even sensitive skin. Its lightweight humectant nature means it hydrates without leaving a heavy or greasy film, which makes it friendly for acne-prone or congested complexions. The only group that may need caution is anyone with a known allergy to grapes or botanicals from the Vitaceae family, as cross-reactivity is possible.
The extract is 100% plant derived with no animal by-products, so it aligns with vegan and vegetarian lifestyles.
No data show that topical use poses a specific risk to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Still, this is not medical advice and expectant or nursing mothers should run any skincare product past a qualified health professional to be safe.
Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract does not absorb UV light or make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising. It also plays well with most other common skincare actives, from niacinamide to peptides, without known incompatibilities.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical use of Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract can vary from person to person. The following points list potential but uncommon reactions. When the ingredient is used at appropriate levels in a well-formulated product most users will not notice any negative effects.
- Allergic contact dermatitis: itching, redness or rash in individuals sensitive to grapes or other plant allergens
- Mild stinging or warmth: may occur if the extract is included in a high-alcohol base or applied to freshly exfoliated skin
- Increased sensitivity when layered with strong acids or retinoids: humectants can sometimes draw actives deeper, leading to transient irritation
- Temporary tacky feel: heavier applications can leave a slight sticky residue that some users find uncomfortable
If any irritation or discomfort develops stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 0 (non-comedogenic)
Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract is a water-soluble humectant with no oily or waxy components so it does not clog pores. Its lightweight molecules sit on the skin surface and bind water rather than forming a film that could trap sebum or debris. For this reason it is generally suitable for acne-prone or breakout-prone skin.
No reports link this extract to increased blackheads or whiteheads. However, if the finished product pairs the extract with heavy oils or butters those other ingredients, not the extract itself, could influence comedogenicity.
Summary
Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract works mainly as a humectant that attracts and holds water on the skin surface, helping to keep the complexion soft, smooth and comfortable. It supports formulas that aim to boost daily hydration without adding weight or greasiness.
While grapes and grape-derived ingredients like resveratrol are well known, Vitis Ficifolia Leaf Extract remains a niche choice that shows up in select hydrating serums, mists and masks rather than in every mainstream product.
Overall safety is high with low risk of irritation for most users aside from rare plant allergies. As with any new skincare ingredient it is smart to perform a quick patch test before applying a full product to be certain your skin agrees with it.