Ingredient review
Scleranthus Annus Flower Extract
INCI: SCLERANTHUS ANNUUS FLOWER EXTRACT
A mild botanical extract with antioxidant potential, but research is limited and benefits are not well-established.
In plain English
Scleranthus annuus flower extract comes from a small annual plant often called knawel. In skincare, it's used as a gentle soothing ingredient that may help calm redness and provide antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. However, there isn't much scientific research on this specific extract, so its benefits are mostly based on traditional use and the general properties of plant extracts.
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
Scleranthus Annus 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 Scleranthus Annus 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 obtained from the flowers of Scleranthus annuus, a plant in the carnation family native to Europe and Asia. It is typically prepared by soaking the flowers in a solvent like water or alcohol to pull out beneficial compounds.
How it works
The extract contains flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds that can neutralize free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress on the skin. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects, helping to calm irritated skin when applied topically.
Pros
Gentle and soothing
The extract is considered very mild and unlikely to cause irritation, making it suitable for sensitive or reactive skin types.
Antioxidant support
Contains flavonoids that can help protect skin from free radical damage caused by UV exposure and pollution.
Cons and cautions
Limited research
There are very few peer-reviewed studies on Scleranthus annuus specifically for skincare, so its benefits are not well-documented.
Potential allergen
As a botanical extract, it may cause allergic reactions in people sensitive to related plants, though this is rare.
Best for
- Those with sensitive or easily irritated skin
- People looking for gentle, plant-based antioxidant ingredients
Use caution if
- Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Caryophyllaceae family
Usage tips
Safety summary
Scleranthus annuus flower extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Research notes
Scientific evidence for this specific extract in skincare is minimal. Most support comes from traditional use and the known antioxidant activity of related plant extracts. More research is needed to confirm its benefits.
Common label clues
- Typical concentration
- 0.1% to 2%
- Regulatory status
- Generally recognized as safe for cosmetic use in the EU and US, with no specific restrictions beyond standard botanical extract regulations.
- Common uses
- Serums, Moisturizers, Soothing creams
- Environmental note
- Scleranthus annuus is a common annual weed, so sourcing is generally sustainable and does not threaten wild populations.
Good to know
- Scleranthus annuus is also used in Bach flower remedies for emotional balance, but this is unrelated to its skincare function.
- The extract is often found in formulations targeting redness or sensitivity.
Common questions
What is Scleranthus Annus Flower Extract in beauty products?
Scleranthus annuus flower extract comes from a small annual plant often called knawel. In skincare, it's used as a gentle soothing ingredient that may help calm redness and provide antioxidant protection against environmental stressors. However, there isn't much scientific research on this specific extract, so its benefits are mostly based on traditional use and the general properties of plant extracts.
What does Scleranthus Annus Flower Extract do in a beauty product?
The extract contains flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds that can neutralize free radicals, potentially reducing oxidative stress on the skin. It may also have mild anti-inflammatory effects, helping to calm irritated skin when applied topically.
Is Scleranthus Annus Flower Extract safe for most people?
Scleranthus annuus flower extract is considered safe for topical use with a low risk of irritation. As with any botanical, patch testing is recommended for those with very sensitive skin or plant allergies.
Who should be careful with Scleranthus Annus Flower Extract?
Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Caryophyllaceae 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.