Ingredient review
Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract
INCI: CLEOME SPINOSA FLOWER EXTRACT
A gentle botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not yet well-established in human studies.
In plain English
Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract comes from the spider flower plant. In skincare, it's used mainly as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental damage, and it may also have soothing properties. However, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so its effects are not guaranteed.
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 Spinosa 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 Cleome Spinosa 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
An extract from the flowers of the Cleome spinosa plant, also known as spider flower. It contains flavonoids and other plant compounds that can act as antioxidants.
How it works
The flavonoids in the extract help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells. This antioxidant action may help reduce oxidative stress and support skin health. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Pros
Gentle antioxidant
Offers a mild protective effect against environmental stressors without common irritation, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
Natural origin
Derived from a plant source, appealing to those who prefer naturally-sourced ingredients in their skincare routine.
Cons and cautions
Limited evidence
Most benefits are based on lab studies, not robust human trials, so real-world effectiveness is uncertain.
Rare allergy risk
As with any botanical, there is a small chance of allergic reaction, especially for those with plant allergies.
Best for
- People looking for gentle antioxidant support
- Those with normal to dry skin who want extra protection
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to Cleome or related plants
Usage tips
Safety summary
Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Research notes
Research is limited to in vitro studies showing antioxidant activity. No significant human clinical trials have been published, so evidence is emerging and not conclusive.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 1%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, but not specifically approved for medical claims.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Toners
- Environmental note
- The plant is cultivated in some regions, but large-scale environmental impact data is not available.
Good to know
- Cleome spinosa is also known as spider flower and is native to tropical regions.
- This extract is often used in low concentrations as part of a broader antioxidant blend.
Common questions
What is Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract in beauty products?
Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract comes from the spider flower plant. In skincare, it's used mainly as an antioxidant to help protect skin from environmental damage, and it may also have soothing properties. However, most of what we know comes from lab studies, not large human trials, so its effects are not guaranteed.
What does Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract do in a beauty product?
The flavonoids in the extract help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells. This antioxidant action may help reduce oxidative stress and support skin health. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Is Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract safe for most people?
Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract is considered safe for topical use in cosmetics at typical concentrations. Irritation and allergy are rare, but patch testing is recommended for those with sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Cleome Spinosa Flower Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to Cleome or related 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.