Skin Conditioning

Calendula Officinalis Flower

INCI: CALENDULA OFFICINALIS FLOWER

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Also known as: Calendula Officinalis Flower

A botanical extract traditionally used to support skin recovery and calm irritation

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive

Addresses

Redness, Sensitivity, Irritation

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Calendula Officinalis Flower?

Calendula officinalis flower, commonly known as pot marigold, is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean region. In skincare, the flower extract is used as a skin conditioning agent. The extract contains compounds including flavonoids and polysaccharides, which are believed to contribute to its traditional use in wound care and skin soothing applications.

Calendula appears in roughly 0.1% of skincare products, typically in formulations targeting sensitive or compromised skin. It is generally incorporated at low concentrations within serums, creams, and treatment products.

How It Works

Calendula extract appears to work through multiple mechanisms. In laboratory studies, its bioactive compounds demonstrate antioxidant properties, meaning they may neutralise harmful free radicals that can damage skin cells. This protective effect seems to be concentration-dependent, with lower doses showing optimal benefit.

The extract also functions as a skin conditioning agent through hydration and emollient properties. When formulated into delivery systems, it may support natural skin repair processes, though the exact mechanisms in living human skin require further investigation.

Clinical Evidence & References

In vitro (laboratory) research shows that calendula flower extracts can protect human skin cells against oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide, with doses of 1% (v/v) or less showing no toxicity in these studies. Preclinical animal models (using rabbit skin) suggest that calendula extract incorporated into collagen scaffolds may support full-thickness wound healing, though this does not directly translate to typical topical skincare use.

Evidence for calendula's benefits in living human skin is more limited. Whilst it has been used traditionally for centuries to soothe irritation and support skin recovery, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking. The ingredient appears safe at typical cosmetic concentrations, but claims around irritation reduction and redness should be viewed as preliminary until further human studies are conducted.

How to Use

Calendula is generally well-suited to daily use in products formulated with it. If you have particularly sensitive skin or are new to the ingredient, introduce it gradually and observe how your skin responds. The ingredient works well in layered routines and can be combined with other soothing botanicals or barrier-supporting ingredients. Given its traditional use for irritated skin, it may be especially beneficial during periods of heightened sensitivity.

Safety & Precautions

Calendula is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use at typical cosmetic concentrations. Those with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (including ragweed, chrysanthemum, and chamomile) should patch test before use, as cross-reactivity is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

From the Clinic

Not sure what your skin actually needs?

Two minutes, a few questions, and we’ll point you at what matters — no guesswork.

Take the skin quiz

Part of a family

Calendula Officinalis Flower is a variant of Calendula Officinalis Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

A plant extract traditionally used to help calm irritated and inflamed skin

Learn More About Skincare Ingredients

Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.

Browse All Ingredients

Authorised Stockist

Official UK retailer

Tracked Delivery

Free UK shipping over £50

5 Star Rating

Trusted by thousands

Expert Advice

Free consultations