What Is Phaseolus Lunatus (Green Bean) Seed Extract?
Seed extract from Phaseolus lunatus (lima bean/butter bean). Contains phaseolamin (an alpha-amylase inhibitor), proteins, and minerals. Research suggests phaseolamin may help regulate sebum production when applied topically. Used in oil-control and pore-minimizing formulations.
Key Skin Benefits
+ Antioxidant protection — flavonoids and polyphenols neutralize free radicals
+ Skin conditioning — proteins and amino acids nourish skin
+ Traditional beauty use — centuries of documented application in Asian skincare
+ Natural and sustainable — renewable plant source
Pros
+ Natural plant-based ingredient with traditional backing
+ Rich in bioactive compounds — flavonoids, saponins, proteins
+ Sustainable and renewable — bean crops are widely cultivated
+ Good safety profile — food-grade ingredient history
Cons
− Bean/legume allergy — must be labeled for consumer safety
− Plant variability — active content varies by crop and region
− May contain residual pesticides if not organic certified
− Limited cosmetic-specific clinical research
Specifications
Property
Value
Usage Areas
Face, Eye, Body
Product Type
Leave-On, Rinse-Off
Source
Plant
Natural Level
Natural
Safety Ratings
Metric
Rating
Skin Sensitivity
0-1/5 (very low)
Comedogenic Rating
0/5
EWG Score
1/10
Regional Regulatory Limits
Region
Leave-on %
Rinse-off %
Status
EU (CosIng)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
US (CIR/FDA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed — CIR safe as used
Japan (MHLW)
No limit
No limit
Allowed
ASEAN
No limit
No limit
Allowed — follows EU
China (NMPA)
No limit
No limit
Allowed — listed in IECIC
Typical Usage % by Product Type
Product Type
Typical %
Serum / essence
0.1–3%
Moisturizer
0.1–2%
References
Yao Y et al. (2013) — Antioxidant properties of mung bean flavonoids. PMID: 23602872
Tang D et al. (2014) — Adzuki bean polyphenols and antioxidant activity. PMID: 24555607
EU CosIng Database. https://ec.europa.eu/growth/tools-databases/cosing/