Cucumber Extract (Cucumis sativus Fruit Extract) is a refreshing, skin-comforting botanical made from the fruit of the cucumber plant. Long loved in traditional care for its cooling feel, it’s now a modern staple for daily hydrators, after-sun gels, eye products and gentle cleansers. Naturally rich in sugars, amino acids, minerals, and mild antioxidants, cucumber extract helps the skin feel soothed and lightly moisturised while supporting a fresher, more even look.
What it does
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Soothes & calms: Delivers an instant cooling sensation that helps reduce the feel of tight, overheated or wind-stressed skin—great after cleansing, light exfoliation or sun exposure.
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Hydrates (lightweight): Humectant sugars and amino acids attract and hold water at the surface, improving skin comfort without heaviness or residue.
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Brightens the look of dullness: Gentle antioxidant components help fend off everyday environmental stressors for a fresher, well-rested appearance.
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De-puffs eye area: In eye gels and patches, the cooling, film-forming action helps the under-eye feel smoother and look less puffy (cosmetic effect).
Skin suitability
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Ideal for all skin types—normal, oily, combination, dry and sensitive.
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A handy pick for reactive or post-activity routines (non-broken skin), and for hot, humid climates where light hydration is preferred.
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Typically low-sensitising and fragrance-lean; suits minimalist, barrier-first formulas.
How formulators use it
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Format & solubility: Usually a water-glycerin extract—easy to incorporate into toners, essences, gel serums, mist tonics, sheet masks, after-sun gels and low-foam cleansers.
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Use levels: Commonly 0.5–5% depending on extract strength and desired sensory impact (check your supplier’s solid content).
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pH range: Comfortable in ~4.5–7.0 systems; verify specs.
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Processing: Add during the cool-down phase (<40–45 °C) to preserve volatiles and delicate actives. Protect with a broad-spectrum preservative appropriate for high-water formulas.
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Sensory: Contributes slip, a clean finish and a soft, immediate “cool touch”.
Great pairings
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Hydration & barrier: Glycerin, betaine, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, aloe, beta-glucan, ectoin and ceramide blends to build a gentle moisture stack.
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Tone-evening & clarity: Niacinamide or tranexamic acid for brightening routines; cucumber helps improve cosmetic tolerance.
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After-sun & soothing: Allantoin, bisabolol and madecassoside for calming gels and mists.
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Eye care: Caffeine and peptides in featherweight gel textures.
Product ideas
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Daily hydrators: Splash-on toners/essences and featherlight serums for comfy, shine-friendly moisture.
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Recovery care: Post-sun or post-workout gels and sheet masks that cool and calm fast.
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Cleansers: Micellar waters and gentle gel cleansers that refresh without stripping.
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Mists: Desk or travel sprays to top up comfort during the day.
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Eye gels: Morning de-puffers with a quick-dry, non-sticky finish.
Regulatory & labelling bits
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INCI listing: Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract (plus solvent system components).
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Typical claims language: “Cooling & soothing,” “Lightweight hydration,” “Refreshes tired-looking skin,” “Helps reduce the feel of puffiness,” “Gentle antioxidant support.”
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Pack notes: Opaque or UV-protected bottles help preserve colour and scent; include batch/BBE, storage <25 °C, and patch-test suggestion for sensitive users.
Properties
Anti-inflammatory, Natural AHA, MoisturizingAnti-inflammatory, Natural AHA, Moisturizing
INCI Name
Cucumis sativus Fruit Extract
