Red Clover Extract
Source of phytoestrogens biochanin A and formononetin. Used in anti-age products for mature skin and in women's hair-loss products (estrogen component of androgenic alopecia). Works weakly as a sole active and is more often used in combination with soy isoflavones or wild hollyhock.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Topical clinical studies are few and of low methodological quality. Systemic use (teas, supplements) for menopausal symptoms has mixed data. In cosmetics it is a marketing ingredient with a limited evidence base.
- Lipovac M et al. Obstet Gynecol Int. 2011;2011:949302. PMID 22135679
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive
About this ingredient
Red clover extract (Trifolium Pratense Extract) is an extract of the aerial parts of meadow clover. The active compounds are isoflavones: biochanin A, formononetin, genistein, daidzein. Phytoestrogens, partial agonists of estrogen receptor β. Where applied. Anti-aging creams and serums for mature, perimenopausal skin (0.1-2%), women's hair-loss products (part of androgenic alopecia lines where the estrogen component contributes). In Spain it appears in mature-skin products from Sesderma, Babé. Often combined with soy isoflavones and wild yam extract. Evidence base. Systemically, as capsules, red clover extract was studied for menopausal hot flashes – Cochrane Review 2013 showed a weak and inconsistent effect. Topically – isolated pilot studies of improved skin density in postmenopausal women (Lipovac 2009, n=33), without confirmation in large RCTs. Safety. CIR confirmed safety at cosmetic concentrations (Final Report 2017). Hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic. Long-term systemic isoflavone use shows mild estrogen-like effects, but topical systemic absorption is minimal. Phytoestrogen controversy. Patients with estrogen-dependent tumors (breast, endometrial cancer) and endometriosis are advised to avoid isoflavones at meaningful doses. Topical cosmetics deliver doses orders of magnitude below systemic ones, and the SCCS does not classify cosmetic phytoestrogens as a risk group. When in doubt, discuss with the treating physician. Pregnancy – use with caution. Topical systemic absorption is minimal, but phytoestrogen potential makes the recommendation cautious for pregnancy. Lactation – limited data, better avoided.
Frequently asked questions
Is Red Clover Extract safe during pregnancy?
Red Clover Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Red Clover Extract for?
Red Clover Extract suits: normal, dry, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive.
What is Red Clover Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Source of phytoestrogens biochanin A and formononetin.
What's the INCI name for Red Clover Extract?
The INCI name is Trifolium Pratense Extract. It may also appear as: Red Clover Extract, Trifolium Pratense (Clover) Flower Extract.
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