Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract

Clitoria ternatea is a perennial herb more commonly known as butterfly pea because of the pea-shaped, wing-like flowers it produces. All parts of this plant have benefit for skin, making it an interesting natural ingredient to consider.

The root portion of this plant contains numerous compounds that have been shown to calm skin and visibly reduce redness from external irritants. All parts of the plant can increase the presence of the body’s “master antioxidant”, glutathione, as well as act as an antioxidant itself.

Of note, Clitoria ternatea is a source of skin-beneficial quercetin and anthocyanins. The flower extract from butterfly pea has been shown in studies to also have anti-glycation properties. This is important for younger-looking skin, because by-products from glycation (a process in which rogue sugar molecules break down proteins in the body) can lead to collagen loss, resulting in wrinkles becoming more prominent and firmness decreasing.

Butterfly pea (also known as “blue matcha”) is native to regions in Asia but is also found in Africa, America, and Australia. Its richly colored flowers produce a noticeable hue in extract form ranging from lavender to deep blue. Concentration levels for this plant extract haven’t been firmly established; however, it takes very little to impart color, and the pigment is the rich source of antioxidant pigments known as anthocyanins.

Note: The flowers of this plant do not contain aromatic compounds known to irritate skin.

Butterfly pea flower extract's proposed benefits stem from its anthocyanin and flavonoid content. These compounds possess antioxidant activity that may help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative damage to skin cells. In cell-based studies, the extract has shown protective effects against hydrogen peroxide-induced stress and UV-induced damage to cell DNA, suggesting a potential protective mechanism.

As a skin conditioner, the extract likely works through hydration and humectant properties, helping the skin retain moisture and maintain a smoother appearance. However, the exact mechanism of action in formulated products on living skin remains incompletely understood.

Butterfly pea flower extract is typically found in serums, toners, and moisturisers at modest concentrations. As part of a formulated product, it can be incorporated into your routine alongside other active ingredients. Because research is still emerging, consider it a complementary ingredient rather than a primary active, and allow time to observe how your skin responds before drawing conclusions about its individual contribution.