Ingredient review
Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract
INCI: CHRYSANTHEMUM COCCINEUM FLOWER EXTRACT
A gentle botanical extract with potential soothing and antioxidant benefits, but research is limited and it may cause sensitivity in those allergic to daisy-family plants.
In plain English
This is an extract made from the flowers of a type of chrysanthemum. In skincare, it is thought to help calm the skin and protect it from damage caused by free radicals (unstable molecules that can harm skin cells). However, there isn't a lot of scientific research on this specific flower extract, so its benefits are mostly based on traditional use and what we know about similar plants.
Review score
Safety, usefulness, and evidence
Potentially useful with some tradeoffs
The evidence base is still emerging, so marketing claims deserve extra caution.
Risk flags are low for most users, though the finished product can still irritate.
- Source
- natural
- Evidence
- emerging
- Irritation
- low
- Clogging risk
- low
Quick decision guide
Useful, but context matters
Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract is generally a lower-concern ingredient when the full formula suits your skin.
Plain-English read
Treat this as a practical screening step before you compare products that contain this ingredient.
- Step 1Start with the score, then check the irritation and clogging risk before judging Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract.
- Step 2Use the "Best for" and "Use caution if" sections to match the ingredient to your skin, not just to a marketing claim.
- Step 3If a product stings, breaks you out, or worsens irritation, judge the finished formula and stop using it even if the ingredient scores well.
Score terms in plain English
Irritation risk
lowLess likely to sting, burn, or bother most users, though sensitive skin can still react.
Clogging risk
lowLess likely to feel heavy or contribute to clogged pores for most skin types.
Evidence level
emergingThe ingredient may be promising, but claims should be treated more cautiously.
What it is
Chrysanthemum coccineum flower extract is a natural ingredient obtained from the flowers of the Chrysanthemum coccineum plant, also known as the Persian chrysanthemum or pyrethrum. The flowers are typically dried and then extracted using a solvent like water or alcohol to capture the plant's active compounds.
How it works
The extract contains various plant compounds, including flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones. Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant activity, meaning they can help neutralize free radicals that contribute to skin aging and irritation. The sesquiterpene lactones may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping to calm redness and sensitivity. However, these same compounds can also be irritating to some people, especially those with allergies to ragweed or other daisy-family plants.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Provides a mild antioxidant boost that may help protect skin from daily environmental damage without being harsh.
Potential calming effect
Traditional use suggests it can help soothe minor skin irritation and redness, making it a good option for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There is very little published scientific evidence specifically on Chrysanthemum coccineum extract for skincare, so its benefits are not well-established.
Allergen risk
As a member of the Asteraceae (daisy) family, it can cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to related plants like ragweed or chamomile.
Best for
- People with normal to dry skin looking for gentle antioxidant support
- Those interested in natural botanical ingredients for soothing formulations
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to chrysanthemums, ragweed, marigolds, or other daisy-family plants
Usage tips
Safety summary
Chrysanthemum coccineum flower extract is considered safe for most people when used in low concentrations in cosmetics. The main safety concern is the potential for allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to Asteraceae plants. Always patch test if you have a history of plant allergies.
Research notes
Research on this specific extract is very limited. Most evidence comes from studies on related chrysanthemum species or the general class of Asteraceae plants, which show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. More targeted studies are needed to confirm benefits for skin.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US when used as a fragrance or skin-conditioning agent at low concentrations. Not specifically regulated as a drug ingredient.
- Common uses
- Soothing creams, Calming serums, Anti-aging formulations
- Environmental note
- Chrysanthemum coccineum is a cultivated ornamental plant; its extract is typically produced through solvent extraction, which has a moderate environmental footprint depending on the solvent used.
Good to know
- Chrysanthemum coccineum is also known as pyrethrum, which is a natural insecticide source, but the flower extract used in cosmetics is processed differently and is not intended for insecticidal use.
- This ingredient is often found in 'clean beauty' or natural skincare lines.
Common questions
What is Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract made from the flowers of a type of chrysanthemum. In skincare, it is thought to help calm the skin and protect it from damage caused by free radicals (unstable molecules that can harm skin cells). However, there isn't a lot of scientific research on this specific flower extract, so its benefits are mostly based on traditional use and what we know about similar plants.
What does Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract contains various plant compounds, including flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones. Flavonoids are known for their antioxidant activity, meaning they can help neutralize free radicals that contribute to skin aging and irritation. The sesquiterpene lactones may have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially helping to calm redness and sensitivity. However, these same compounds can also be irritating to some people, especially those with allergies to ragweed or other daisy-family plants.
Is Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract safe for most people?
Chrysanthemum coccineum flower extract is considered safe for most people when used in low concentrations in cosmetics. The main safety concern is the potential for allergic contact dermatitis in individuals sensitive to Asteraceae plants. Always patch test if you have a history of plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Chrysanthemum Coccineum Flower Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to chrysanthemums, ragweed, marigolds, or other daisy-family plants
Research sources
Ingredient reviews are educational and are not medical advice. Patch test new products and ask a licensed clinician about persistent irritation, allergies, pregnancy-specific questions, or diagnosed skin conditions.