Capsicum Frutescens Fruit Extract is derived from chili pepper and contains capsaicinoids that act as a rubefacient, increasing local blood flow and producing a warming sensation. In skincare it is used in warming, slimming, and counterirritant formulations, and in topical products for muscle and joint discomfort.
| Reported effect | How often | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Burning, warming, or stinging sensation | Common | Expected pharmacological effect from capsaicinoids; usually transient and dose-dependent. |
| Erythema (skin redness) | Common | Due to vasodilation; typically resolves after application stops. |
| Irritant contact dermatitis | Uncommon | More likely with higher concentrations, broken skin, or prolonged contact. |
| Allergic contact dermatitis | Rare | True sensitization is infrequent compared with irritant reactions. |
| Severe blistering or chemical burn | Very rare | Reported with occlusion, high concentrations, or accidental mucosal/ocular exposure. |
Frequencies reflect typical cosmetic use reported in the literature, not a guarantee for your skin.
Peer-reviewed papers on this ingredient, via PubMed.