Best For Skin Types
All
Addresses
Usage Frequency
Daily
What Is Prunus Persica Flower Extract?
Prunus persica flower extract is derived from the flowers of the peach tree, a plant with a long history of use in East Asian skincare traditions. The extract is obtained through ethanol processing and contains several active compounds, primarily kaempferol glycoside derivatives, which give it antioxidant properties.
In skincare formulations, it functions as a moisturising and skin-conditioning agent. Its primary role centres on protecting skin from oxidative stress and UV-related damage rather than providing occlusive hydration alone.
How It Works
The extract works primarily through its antioxidant compounds, which intercept free radicals produced by UV exposure before they can damage skin cells and DNA. Research has demonstrated that it inhibits UVB and UVC-induced DNA damage in skin cells in laboratory settings, and reduces lipid peroxidation—a marker of oxidative stress.
When applied topically before sun exposure, the extract appears to create a protective environment that limits the cascade of inflammatory and degenerative responses typically triggered by UV radiation, including the upregulation of matrix metalloproteinase enzymes that break down collagen.
Clinical Evidence & References
In vivo animal studies show measurable benefits: the extract inhibited UVB-induced skin redness in a dose-dependent manner and delayed tumour development in UV-exposed mice compared to controls. Cell-based research confirms it prevents UV-induced DNA damage and reduces markers of oxidative stress at relevant concentrations.
However, most evidence comes from animal models and cell studies rather than human clinical trials. Whilst the findings are encouraging, the ingredient remains relatively uncommon in skincare (present in roughly 0.1% of products), which means large-scale human efficacy data is limited. It appears most effective when applied before UV exposure rather than as a treatment after damage occurs.
Published Research
How to Use
To maximise potential benefits, apply products containing this extract as part of your morning routine, ideally before sun exposure. It is best used in conjunction with conventional sun protection (SPF sunscreen) rather than as a substitute. If using it in a serum or treatment product, allow it to absorb fully before applying other layers.
Safety & Precautions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Prunus Persica Flower Extract is a variant of Prunus Persica (Peach) Leaf Extract, the form you will most often see on an ingredients list.
Extract from the leaves of the domestic peach | Has antioxidant properties
Related Ingredients
Prunus Persica (Peach) Leaf Extract
Extract from the leaves of the domestic peach | Has antioxidant properties
Prunus Persica Fruit Water
A fruit water ingredient with perfuming and sensory properties
Prunus Persica Juice
A fruit juice extract that supports skin hydration and conditioning
Prunus Persica Fruit Extract
A fruit-derived ingredient that combines gentle exfoliation with skin conditioning
Prunus Persica Leaf Extract
A plant extract with antioxidant properties, traditionally used to support skin hydration and resilience
Prunus Persica Kernel Extract
A plant-derived moisturiser extracted from peach kernel oil
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