Achillea Millefolium (Common Yarrow) Extract

What is Achillea Millefolium (Common Yarrow) Extract?

Achillea Millefolium Extract comes from the aerial parts of Achillea millefolium, a perennial herb in the Asteraceae family, native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere. Known as common yarrow, the plant yields this extract via water, alcohol, or glycerin extraction, capturing volatile oils, flavonoids, and tannins. In cosmetic formulations, it functions mainly as a fragrance ingredient, adding a subtle herbal aroma while helping to balance scents, and as a skin conditioning agent, which supports skin's suppleness by promoting hydration retention and surface smoothness. Typically incorporated into creams, lotions, shampoos, and toners at trace levels, it enhances sensory appeal without heavy residue, appealing to natural skincare preferences.

Comedogenic Rating 0/5 Low risk of clogging pores
EWG Safety Rating 2 View on EWG →

Roles in Formulation

This ingredient serves the following purposes in cosmetic formulations:

Fragrance ingredient
Contributes scent character and/or masks base odors, shaping the overall sensory experience of the formula (subject to allergen and IFRA considerations).
Skin conditioning agent
Maintains skin softness, smoothness, and flexibility.

Benefits

Delivers natural herbal scent to enhance product fragrance profile.

Supports skin softness and flexibility for smoother feel.

Non-comedogenic, unlikely to clog pores.

Who It's For

A quick guide for who this ingredient may suit (and who should be cautious).

Who May Benefit Who Should Avoid
Individuals preferring botanical fragrances in daily skincare.
People allergic to Asteraceae family plants like ragweed.
Users with normal skin seeking added conditioning.
Those sensitive to herbal scents or essential oils.
Those exploring plant-based cosmetic ingredients.
Individuals with history of contact dermatitis to yarrow.

Safety Notes

  • Considered safe for use in cosmetics at typical concentrations.
  • Patch testing advised for those with sensitive skin.

Frequently Asked Questions about Achillea Millefolium (Common Yarrow) Extract

What is Achillea Millefolium Extract?

A natural extract from the common yarrow plant, used in cosmetics for its fragrance and skin-softening properties.

Is it safe for daily use?

Generally regarded as safe in cosmetics when used as directed, with low hazard ratings.

Does it clog pores?

Has a comedogenic rating of 0, making it non-pore-clogging.