Nelumbo Nucifera Flower Extract

_Nelumbo nucifera_ flower extract is a plant-derived antioxidant taken from the flowers of the _Nelumbo nucifera_ plant, which is more commonly known as sacred lotus. Not surprisingly, this ingredient’s common name is lotus flower extract. _Nelumbo nucifera_ flower extract contains phenols that exhibit antioxidant properties and work to help protect skin from external pro-aging agents like UV rays and pollution. Due to these properties, this skin care ingredient can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as decrease the visibility of dark spots that appear on skin, revealing a more even skin tone. A study which outlined the chemical composition of this plant extract highlighted the presence of rutin, a bioflavonoid and emollient, and ferulic acid, an antioxidant which helps curb the look of dark spots and works with vitamin C to defend skin’s surface from the effects of environmental damage. This flower extract also has a long history of usage for soothing, making it an ingredient that can be used on sensitive skin types. When used in a blend with maltodextrin, a plant-based sugar, _Nelumbo nucifera_ flower extract is recommended for usage in cosmetics at concentrations between 0.5-5%.