Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract
A corn kernel extract with starch and sugars. It hydrates and softens skin. Well tolerated.
Evidence by route
Topical application
A hydrating plant extract. Safe.
- CIR Cosmetic Ingredient Review safety assessment
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Corn kernel extract (INCI: Zea Mays Kernel Extract) is a plant extract that supplies starch, sugars and small amounts of amino acids. In formulas it works as a humectant and texture softener. On efficacy, this is a supporting component with light moisturizing action. It helps skin feel softer and adds to a pleasant product texture, but the evidence base for noticeable results is modest, and it is not equal to reference humectants such as glycerin or hyaluronic acid. Applied topically it has no systemic relevance, so it can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Tolerance is very good: low irritation potential and low allergy risk, which makes it suitable for sensitive skin. At usual concentrations it does not dry or clog pores. It is a quiet, well-tolerated ingredient that plays a supporting role rather than a lead one.
Frequently asked questions
Is Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract safe during pregnancy?
Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract for?
Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
A corn kernel extract with starch and sugars.
What's the INCI name for Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract?
The INCI name is Zea Mays Kernel Extract. It may also appear as: Corn Kernel Extract.
See Zea Mays (Corn) Kernel Extract in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
Similar role in the formula
Explore by category
Ingredients in the same category
Zea Mays (Corn) Oil, 1,2-Hexanediol, 10-Hydroxydecanoic Acid, 2,3-Butanediol, Chondrus Crispus (Carrageenan) Powder, Helianthus Annuus Extract, Larix Sibirica Wood Extract, PPG-15 Stearyl Ether
Published: · updated: