Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract
Contains phytosterols and tocopherols. Trace gossypol requires careful processing.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Plant extract. Clinically meaningful effect on human skin is not supported by robust evidence; data limited to in vitro / lab models.
How to read tiers A–F
- CWeak evidence. In vitro data, open-label studies, or expert consensus
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Unknown
About this ingredient
Cotton seed extract (Gossypium Herbaceum Cotton Seed Extract) is obtained from cotton seeds. Contains phytosterols, tocopherols, phospholipids, flavonoids. Where applied. Soothing and repair creams, sensitive skin products. Found in Asian and natural cosmetics. Gossypol controversy. Raw cotton oil contains gossypol – a polyphenol toxic to the liver and male reproductive system. Purified seed extract for cosmetics must have gossypol removed. The manufacturer must document raw material purity. Evidence base. Direct clinical RCTs are few; Asian studies (Choi 2015) showed in vitro anti-inflammatory effect. Marketing claims exceed the evidence base. Safety. CIR has not made a separate assessment. Cross-reactivity possible in patients allergic to cotton (rare). Pregnancy and lactation – no data (UNKNOWN). Gossypol is contraindicated in pregnancy; with purified extract the risk is minimal, but avoid as a precaution.
Frequently asked questions
Is Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract safe during pregnancy?
Safety data for Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract during pregnancy is insufficient. Best avoided when in doubt.
What is Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Contains phytosterols and tocopherols.
What's the INCI name for Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract?
The INCI name is Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract.
See Gossypium Herbaceum (Cotton) Seed Extract in a product composition right on the store page
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