Common Name(s): Sacred lotus extract,lotus flower extract,blue lotus substitute
CAS Number: 89997-74-0
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Provides nuciferine anti-melanogenic brightening and anti-inflammatory activity from sacred lotus.
Why It's Used: Sacred asian brightening botanical — lotus flower's nuciferine and flavonoids provide tyrosinase-inhibiting brightening and anti-inflammatory anti-aging from the most spiritually revered plant in asian traditions.
How It Works: Nuciferine (aporphine alkaloid) inhibits tyrosinase for brightening. neferine provides anti-inflammatory nf-kb inhibition. kaempferol glycosides provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. lotus polysaccharides provide humectant conditioning.
Typically Found In: Brightening serums,asian beauty products,luxury botanical skincare
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient – brightening / tyrosinase inhibitor
Secondary Functions: Melanin inhibition,hyperpigmentation reduction
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: 0.1%–5%
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Yes – from nelumbo nucifera flowers
Halal Status: Yes
Source Notes: Synthetic or plant-derived.
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 – very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 – non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Non-irritating; well-tolerated.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Excellent safety profile. use with spf for maximum efficacy. ewg score: 1.
Works Well With: Niacinamide,vitamin c,alpha-arbutin,tranexamic acid,spf
Avoid Combining With: No significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
The sacred lotus's remarkable hydrophobicity ('lotus effect') arises from nano-scale wax crystal structures on its leaves that cause water to bead and roll off, carrying dirt particles. this same nano-scale surface architecture inspired the development of 'lotus effect' self-cleaning materials and surfaces. lotus leaf extract (distinct from flower extract) is increasingly used in cosmetics for mattifying and anti-pollution adsorption properties derived from this nano-scale surface chemistry.
Last Verified: 2026-03-12
Primary Sources: Cosing database,mukherjee et al. lotus review