Pisum sativum extract—commonly known as pea extract—is a plant-derived active gaining recognition in dermatological and cosmetic science for its skin-protective, antioxidant, and barrier-supporting properties. Extracted from the seeds of the garden pea, this ingredient is rich in essential amino acids, peptides, and phytonutrients that help defend the skin against oxidative stress and prevent degradation of dermal proteins like collagen and elastin.

In Terra, Pisum Sativum Extract plays a quiet but crucial role in the formula’s antioxidant and barrier repair strategy—protecting against environmental damage while supporting smoother, more elastic skin.

What Is Pisum Sativum Extract?

Derived from the seeds of the Pisum sativum plant, this botanical extract contains:

• Globulin and albumin proteins with high lysine and glutamine content

• Bioactive peptides

• Phenolic compounds (flavonoids and tannins)

• Starch-derived oligosaccharides

Pea extract is often processed using enzyme-assisted or solvent-free techniques to preserve its bioavailability and activity when applied topically.

Skin Benefits of Pea Extract

1. Collagen and Elastin Preservation
Pea peptides have demonstrated the ability to inhibit matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)—enzymes that break down collagen and elastin. By protecting these structural proteins, Pisum extract supports skin firmness and elasticity.

2. Antioxidant Defense
The extract is rich in plant polyphenols and amino acids with antioxidant activity. These compounds help neutralize ROS (reactive oxygen species), preventing oxidative damage to lipids, proteins, and cellular DNA.

3. Barrier Support and Hydration
Pea-derived proteins and oligosaccharides help reinforce the skin’s outer layer, reducing water loss and increasing resilience. They also improve surface texture and comfort for dry, depleted skin.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Pea extract contains flavonoids that modulate inflammatory responses in the skin, helping calm redness and irritation.

Mechanisms of Action

• MMP Inhibition: Prevents enzymatic degradation of collagen/elastin by downregulating MMP-1 and MMP-9 expression.

• ROS Neutralization: Phenolics and protein antioxidants scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.

• Barrier Conditioning: Proteins form a breathable film that protects against irritants and moisture loss.

• NMF Synergy: Supplies amino acid building blocks that mimic natural moisturizing factors in the stratum corneum.

Role in Terra (Barrier Repair Serum)

In Terra, Pisum Sativum Extract works synergistically with:

• Ceramide NP, which rebuilds lipid structure

• Hydrolyzed Wheat and Soy Proteins, which provide topical amino acids and peptides

• Leontopodium Alpinum (Edelweiss) Flower Extract, which adds complementary antioxidant action

This synergy amplifies Terra’s focus on barrier support, oxidative defense, and skin comfort—especially for individuals experiencing dryness, sensitivity, or premature signs of aging.

Scientific Support and Clinical Research

• A study published in International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2014) showed that Pisum Sativum peptide fractions reduced UV-induced oxidative stress and inhibited collagen breakdown in skin models.

• Research in Molecules (2020) confirmed that pea protein hydrolysates exhibit MMP-inhibitory activity and antioxidant potential.

• An in vivo cosmetic trial found that formulations containing pea extract improved skin elasticity and surface smoothness after 28 days of daily application.

Safety and Skin Compatibility

Pisum Sativum Extract is non-sensitizing, non-comedogenic, and generally safe for all skin types, including sensitive and acne-prone. Its composition is gluten-free and vegan-friendly, making it ideal for clean beauty and barrier-supportive formulations.

Connection to Terra’s Claims

• Barrier Repair: Protein fractions and oligosaccharides strengthen skin’s structural resilience.

• Antioxidants: Phenolic and peptide components reduce oxidative degradation of skin components.

• Natural Moisturizing Factors (NMF): Supplies amino acids that help maintain water-binding capacity in the outer skin layer.

Key Takeaways

• Pisum Sativum Extract is a protein- and antioxidant-rich botanical active that protects collagen, defends against oxidative stress, and supports the skin barrier.

• In Terra, it complements ceramides, amino acids, and peptides to create a holistic barrier repair system.

• Suitable for all skin types, it enhances elasticity and reduces damage from environmental aggressors.

References

1. Oesser, S., & Seifert, J. (2014). Collagen hydrolysate and pea peptides in skin health. International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 36(3), 241–249.

2. Chen, Y., et al. (2020). Pea protein hydrolysates as bioactives: Antioxidant and anti-aging properties. Molecules, 25(3), 639.

3. Park, K. Y., et al. (2016). Plant-derived protein extracts in skincare: The case of Pisum Sativum. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 15(4), 459–465.

4. Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Panel. (2020). Final safety assessment of Pisum Sativum-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics.

5. Jadoon, S., et al. (2017). Peptides from legumes in anti-aging skin formulations. Dermatologic Therapy, 30(1), e12401.