Absorbent

Helichrysum Italicum Leaf Cell Extract

INCI: HELICHRYSUM ITALICUM LEAF CELL EXTRACT

Reviewed by Kate · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Plant cell extract with absorbent and antioxidant properties for balanced skin

Best For Skin Types

Oily, Combination, All

Addresses

Oil control, Redness, Sensitivity

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Helichrysum Italicum Leaf Cell Extract?

Helichrysum italicum leaf cell extract is derived from the Helichrysum italicum plant, commonly known as Italian immortelle or curry plant, which is native to the Mediterranean region. The extract is obtained from the plant's leaf cells and contains a concentration of naturally occurring compounds including flavonoids and other polyphenols.

In skincare formulations, this ingredient functions primarily as an absorbent, helping to manage excess sebum and moisture on the skin's surface. It is also valued for its antioxidant properties, which may help protect skin from oxidative stress.

How It Works

The absorbent capacity of helichrysum italicum leaf cell extract allows it to attract and bind excess oil and moisture from the skin's surface, making it particularly useful in formulations designed to control shine without compromising hydration. The mechanism is physical rather than chemical, working through the structure of the plant cell material.

The antioxidant action derives from the polyphenolic compounds present in the extract, which can interact with free radicals and may help strengthen the skin's natural antioxidant defences.

Clinical Evidence & References

Published clinical research on helichrysum italicum leaf cell extract in skincare is limited. Most supporting evidence comes from traditional use of the plant in Mediterranean herbalism and preliminary in vitro studies on the broader helichrysum genus, which have identified antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in isolated plant compounds.

While the ingredient is used in cosmetic formulations and is generally recognised as safe, robust human clinical trials evaluating its efficacy in skincare products remain sparse. Further research would help establish optimal concentrations and specific benefits in finished formulations.

How to Use

This ingredient is typically found in oil-control serums, mattifying moisturisers, and balancing toners. It works well in lightweight formulations and can be layered with other actives. As with any plant extract, patch testing is advisable if you have known sensitivities to botanical ingredients, particularly if you are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family.

Safety & Precautions

Helichrysum italicum leaf cell extract is generally well-tolerated. Those with allergies to plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae) should avoid products containing this ingredient.

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Part of a family

Helichrysum Italicum Leaf Cell Extract is a variant of Helichrysum Italicum Flower Water, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.

A delicate floral water with skin-conditioning properties from the Mediterranean

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