Clove Extract

Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) Flower Bud Extract is a characterful botanical from dried clove buds—the warm, spicy note you know from the kitchen—reimagined for modern skincare. Beyond its scent, clove bud extract offers antioxidant support, clarity cues, and a subtle reviving sensorial that helps skin feel freshly reset (cosmetic effects only). Its key phenolic compounds—most notably eugenol—alongside flavonoids and tannins, underpin both the protective profile and the signature aroma.

What it does

• Antioxidant defence: Phenolics help neutralise everyday free radicals, softening the look of dull, city-stressed skin (not a sunscreen).

• Clarity & balance: In well-buffered systems, it can support a cleaner-looking T-zone and more refined appearance over time.

• Reviving sensorial: A low, warm-spice lift makes cleansing and masking feel invigorating without heavy fragrance loads.

• Scalp & body care: At low levels, contributes to a fresher feel in clarifying shampoos and body washes.

Skin suitability

Best for normal, combination, and oily skin that enjoys a purifying, just-cleaned feel. Dry or sensitive skin can still benefit—choose fragrance-lean, low-percentage formulas with humectants and barrier helpers. Always patch test if reactive, and avoid broken/compromised skin and the eye area.

Formulation notes

• Formats & solubility:

  • Water/glycerin extracts for toners, essences, gel serums, sheet masks.

  • Oil-dispersible/CO₂ fractions for emulsions, balms, sticks.

• Typical use levels (guide—follow your supplier COA):

  • Water-based: 0.1–1% in leave-ons; higher in rinse-off.

  • Oil-dispersible: 0.05–0.3% in the oil phase or cool-down to control aroma strength.

• pH range: Generally happy around pH 4.5–6.0.

• Processing: Add in cool-down (<40–45 °C) to preserve delicate aromatics; preserve water-rich systems with a robust broad-spectrum preservative and consider a chelator for colour/odor stability.

• Compatibility: Plays well with glycerin, betaine, panthenol, niacinamide, zinc PCA, and modern rheology systems. Bench-test with cationic conditioners in haircare.

Pairings that work

• Hydration & barrier: Glycerin, hyaluronic acid, panthenol, beta-glucan, ectoin, and ceramide systems to keep comfort high.

• Clarity & tone: Niacinamide, zinc PCA, azelaic derivatives, gentle PHA/AHA to support a smoother, more even look.

• Antioxidant stack: Vitamin E, green tea, ferulic acid to round out daily defence.

• Soothers to tame spice: Allantoin, bisabolol, madecassoside.

Product formats you’ll see

• Purifying toners/essences: Shine-friendly hydration with a crisp, revived feel.

• Gel serums: Lightweight clarity layers that sit neatly under SPF and makeup.

• Cleansers & detox masks: Low-foam gels or clays that refresh without over-stripping.

• Scalp refreshers & clarifying shampoos: Subtle spice lift, clean finish.

Claims & labels (inspiration)

• Claims: “Antioxidant support,” “Helps refine the look of pores,” “Purifies and refreshes,” “Shine-friendly hydration,” “Invigorating sensorial.”

• INCI listing: Syzygium aromaticum (Clove) Flower Bud Extract (plus solvent system components).

• Ethics/environment: Commonly vegan and readily biodegradable when responsibly sourced—confirm GMO status, solvent system, extract ratio, and allergen declarations (e.g., eugenol) for compliant labelling in your market.