Chamomile: A Gentle Classic from the Herb Garden
Active Ingredients Glossary · K
INCI: Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract
Chamomile tea, chamomile baths, chamomile steam: Few plants are as familiar in everyday life. True chamomile also has a firm place in skincare—as a gentle companion for sensitive skin. Here you'll learn what is well-documented and what is based primarily on tradition.
What is chamomile?
This refers to true chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, listed as Chamomilla Recutita in the INCI list), a composite flower from the Asteraceae family. In cosmetics, the flowers are primarily used. They contain a wide range of compounds: essential oil with bisabolol and the blue pigment chamazulene, flavonoids such as apigenin, and mucilage.
A well-known derivative is bisabolol, which is often used today in creams—usually in its isolated, synthetic form. If, on the other hand, the INCI list lists "chamomile flower extract," this refers to a plant mixture whose composition varies depending on the manufacturing process.
Effects: What Is Proven
Two out of five bars: The tradition is long-standing, but the body of research on chamomile extract in cosmetics is limited. Laboratory studies show that individual ingredients—particularly bisabolol and apigenin—possess soothing and antioxidant properties. Smaller studies involving chamomile creams suggest a pleasantly soothing effect on stressed skin, but these studies are often outdated or lack statistical significance.
Honest assessment: Chamomile is a gentle, complementary ingredient that rounds out a formula. Those looking to specifically address redness and a weakened skin barrier will find better-researched alternatives in panthenol, oats, or centella asiatica.
Usage & Combination
Chamomile extract is mild and suitable for daily care of the face, body, and scalp. It's often found in lotions, masks, and shampoos, usually combined with other plant extracts. In KUNDAL's Honey & Macadamia Body Lotion, chamomile appears relatively early in the INCI list, alongside oats, sage, and centella. In SKIN REPUBLIC's masks, it complements active ingredients such as salicylic acid or retinol.
Pairs well with
✓ Oats – doubly gentle for sensitive skin
✓ Panthenol – supports the skin barrier
✓ Aloe vera – light hydration
Note
! If you have an allergy to composite flowers (e.g., arnica, calendula, mugwort), avoid chamomile
! Test new products on a small area of skin first
! Chamomile is soothing, but it is no substitute for a medical evaluation when dealing with skin problems
Chamomile in the BONSANA lineup
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View the Sensitive Skin Collection →Frequently Asked Questions About Chamomile
Is chamomile good for sensitive skin?
For most people, yes. Chamomile extract is considered mild and soothing. However, anyone with an allergy to the Asteraceae family should avoid chamomile.
What is the difference between chamomile and bisabolol?
Bisabolol is one of the best-known ingredients in chamomile and is often used on its own, usually in a synthetic form. Chamomile extract, on the other hand, contains a whole blend of plant compounds.
How well-documented is the effectiveness of chamomile?
Not very well. Laboratory studies show that individual ingredients have soothing properties, but there are only a few high-quality studies on chamomile extract in cosmetics. Much of the belief in its benefits is based on a long tradition.
Can I use chamomile tea as a facial toner?
This is an old home remedy. However, homemade tea is not preserved and should be used up on the same day. If you have an allergy to the Asteraceae family, it's best to avoid it.
