Ingredient review
Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract
INCI: CLEOME GYNANDRA LEAF EXTRACT
Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract is a gentle botanical with antioxidant potential, but research on its cosmetic benefits is still limited.
In plain English
This is an extract from the leaves of the spider flower plant, a leafy green vegetable also used in traditional medicine. In skincare, it is added to products for its ability to help protect skin from environmental stress and calm minor irritation. Because it is not widely studied in cosmetics, its effects are not as well-documented as more common ingredients like green tea or aloe.
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
Cleome Gynandra Leaf 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 Cleome Gynandra Leaf 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
A water- or solvent-based extract from the leaves of Cleome gynandra, a plant native to Africa and Asia. The leaves contain flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other compounds that may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
How it works
The extract's antioxidant compounds help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. Its anti-inflammatory components may help reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin when applied topically.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant support
The extract contains flavonoids that can help protect skin from daily environmental damage without causing irritation.
Mild soothing potential
Traditional use and preliminary research suggest it may help calm minor redness, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Cons and cautions
Limited cosmetic research
Most studies focus on the plant's nutritional or medicinal properties, not its topical skincare benefits, so effectiveness is not well-proven.
Potential allergen risk
As with any botanical extract, there is a small chance of allergic reaction, especially for those with plant sensitivities.
Best for
- Anyone looking for a gentle, plant-based antioxidant
- People with normal to combination skin seeking mild soothing benefits
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Cleomaceae family
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. There are no major safety concerns reported, but as with any plant extract, patch testing is advisable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Research notes
Research on Cleome gynandra primarily covers its nutritional and traditional medicinal uses, with some in vitro studies showing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Direct clinical evidence for cosmetic benefits is lacking, placing this ingredient in the emerging evidence category.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- Typically used at 0.1% to 2% in leave-on products
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US when used at typical concentrations, though specific regulations vary by country.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toning lotions
- Environmental note
- Cleome gynandra is a hardy plant that grows in tropical and subtropical regions, often cultivated or wild-harvested. Sustainable sourcing practices are recommended to avoid overharvesting.
Good to know
- The plant is also known as spider flower or cat's whiskers and is eaten as a leafy vegetable in some cultures.
- This extract is often used in very low concentrations, so it is rarely the star ingredient in a formula.
Common questions
What is Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract in beauty products?
This is an extract from the leaves of the spider flower plant, a leafy green vegetable also used in traditional medicine. In skincare, it is added to products for its ability to help protect skin from environmental stress and calm minor irritation. Because it is not widely studied in cosmetics, its effects are not as well-documented as more common ingredients like green tea or aloe.
What does Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract's antioxidant compounds help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage skin cells and accelerate aging. Its anti-inflammatory components may help reduce redness and soothe sensitive skin when applied topically.
Is Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract safe for most people?
Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract is considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. There are no major safety concerns reported, but as with any plant extract, patch testing is advisable for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
Who should be careful with Cleome Gynandra Leaf Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Cleomaceae family
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.