Skin Conditioning

Hydrolyzed Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract

INCI: HYDROLYZED CALENDULA OFFICINALIS FLOWER EXTRACT

Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 14 Aug 2026

Plant extract with skin-soothing and protective properties

Best For Skin Types

All, Sensitive

Addresses

Sensitivity, Redness, Barrier repair

Usage Frequency

Daily

What Is Hydrolyzed Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract?

Hydrolyzed Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract is derived from marigold flowers (Calendula officinalis) that have been broken down through hydrolysis — a process that splits larger plant molecules into smaller, more readily absorbed components. This treatment makes the active compounds in calendula more bioavailable to the skin.

Calendula has a long history in traditional skincare and herbalism, valued for its anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning properties. In modern formulations, the hydrolyzed extract functions as a skin protectant, helping to maintain skin integrity and support the skin's natural defence mechanisms.

How It Works

The hydrolyzed form of calendula extract allows its active constituents — including flavonoids and polysaccharides — to penetrate the outer layers of skin more effectively than whole plant material. These compounds are thought to work partly through their anti-inflammatory action, which can reduce redness and calm sensitised skin.

Additionally, the extract helps reinforce the skin's protective barrier by promoting skin resilience and reducing water loss, making it particularly useful in products designed for sensitive or compromised skin conditions.

Clinical Evidence & References

Calendula has been studied in both traditional and modern research contexts, with evidence suggesting anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. However, most clinical studies have focused on whole calendula extracts or tinctures, rather than specifically on the hydrolyzed form used in cosmetics.

Research on hydrolyzed calendula extract in skincare formulations is limited. While the hydrolysis process is theoretically sound — improving bioavailability — direct comparative studies in skincare are sparse. The ingredient appears to be well-tolerated, and its traditional use is well-documented, but claims should be considered preliminary without more rigorous clinical data specific to the hydrolyzed derivative.

How to Use

Hydrolyzed calendula extract is most commonly found in serums, essences, toners, and soothing creams. It can be layered with other skincare steps and is generally gentle enough for daily use. For those with very sensitive skin, patch testing is still advisable, though reactions are uncommon. The ingredient works well alongside other barrier-supporting actives such as ceramides or centella asiatica.

Safety & Precautions

Generally well-tolerated and considered safe for topical use. Those with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, chrysanthemums) should exercise caution, as cross-reactivity is possible though rare.

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

Hydrolyzed Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract 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