Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
Reviewed by Emma · Last updated 18 Aug 2026
Also known as: Lotus Flower Extract
Plant-derived ingredient AKA Lotus Flower Extract | Contains phenols and flavonoids which provide antioxidant properties
Addresses
EWG Safety Score
What Is Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract?
Nelumbo nucifera flower extract is a plant-derived antioxidant taken from the flowers of the Nelumbo nucifera plant, which is more commonly known as sacred lotus. Not surprisingly, this ingredient’s common name is lotus flower extract.
Nelumbo nucifera flower extract contains phenols that exhibit antioxidant properties and work to help protect skin from external pro-aging agents like UV rays and pollution. Due to these properties, this skin care ingredient can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as decrease the visibility of dark spots that appear on skin, revealing a more even skin tone.
A study which outlined the chemical composition of this plant extract highlighted the presence of rutin, a bioflavonoid and emollient, and ferulic acid, an antioxidant which helps curb the look of dark spots and works with vitamin C to defend skin’s surface from the effects of environmental damage.
This flower extract also has a long history of usage for soothing, making it an ingredient that can be used on sensitive skin types.
When used in a blend with maltodextrin, a plant-based sugar, Nelumbo nucifera flower extract is recommended for usage in cosmetics at concentrations between 0.5-5%.
Clinical Evidence & References
Published Research
-
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, January 2023, pages 562-570 []
-
Asian Journal of Beauty and Cosmetology, March 2022, pages 11-19 []
-
Plants, September 2021, ePublication []
-
Phytotherapy Research, January 2017, pages 3-26 []
-
International Conference on Bioscience, Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, January 2011, ePublication []
-
Korean Journal of Chemical Engineering, November 2010, pages 424-427 []
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 quizOther forms of Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract
These appear on ingredients lists under different names but are the same substance. Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract is the common form.
Related Ingredients
Nelumbo Nucifera Callus Culture Extract
A plant cell culture extract with antioxidant and soothing properties
Nelumbium Speciosum Flower Extract
Extract from sacred lotus flowers used traditionally to condition and soothe the skin
Nelumbo Nucifera Root Water
A botanical tonic traditionally used to support skin hydration and calm
Nelumbo Nucifera Seed Extract
A plant extract with antioxidant and conditioning properties, traditionally used in Asian skincare
Nelumbo Nucifera Extract
A plant extract traditionally valued for antioxidant and skin-conditioning properties
Nelumbo Nucifera Germ Extract
A plant-derived conditioning agent from lotus germ with skin-softening properties
Learn More About Skincare Ingredients
Explore our comprehensive ingredient glossary to understand what's in your products.
Browse All IngredientsShop Our Products
Find professional skincare solutions at Skintique.