The skincare industry has steadily been growing over recent years due to increased interest in natural and organic products and self-care trends. Domestic sales of skincare products in the US grew by 13% in 2018, making skincare a $5.6 billion industry. While many skincare products contain toxic ingredients that are harmful to your skin, nutraceuticals and traditional oriental herbs have incredible healing and prentative properties that work wonders on skin without the use of harsh chemicals. Incorporating key herbal extracts into your skincare routine is one of the easiest ways to maintain clear and supple skin.
Benefits of Herbal Extracts for Skincare
With growing concerns about synthetic ingredients and new research on the harmful effects of chemical substances, many people are opting for a more natural approach to their skincare regimen. For hundreds of years herbs have been added to beauty and skincare products for their natural healing abilities. The antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of many plant extracts have the potential to increase circulation in the skin, combat dryness, limit the growth of bacteria, slow down the aging process, and even encourage collagen formation.
Key Extracts for Skincare
Rosemary and jasmine have traditionally been used in the skincare industry to add color and scent to products; however, there are hundreds of other natural extracts that are beneficial to skin care beyond the aesthetics of the product. Below are some of the most common herbal extracts that you should be incorporating into your skincare routine.
Angelica Root
Angelica is an ancient herb with a number of health benefits. The root of the angelica plant contains nutrients, such as antioxidants, vitamins, and valeric acid that can act as a natural treatment for various skin conditions. This root provides deep hydration, reduces the signs of aging and also acts as a natural astringent that clears pores of excess oil and dirt. Angelica root extract can be used as a face wash or can be added to a bath to reduce inflammation and treat eczema,
Ginseng Root
Coined “the original superfood”, the root of ginseng has a multitude of benefits for your skin. Ginseng contains high levels of vitamins and minerals that help prevent and repair cellular damage. The herb has been proven to increase chi & circulation to the dermal layers providing essential nourishment to skin cells that reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. The powerful antibacterial properties in ginseng can also purify the skin and reduce build-up.
Licorice Root
This sweet flavored root often used for culinary purposes comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant, which is a perennial legume found in the southern regions of Europe and Asia. Licorice root is a rich source of glycyrrhizin (anti-inflammatory), licochalcone (oil-control), and liquiritin (balances skin pigment), all of which are beneficial to the skin. The powerful antibacterial properties in this root are great for soothing and hydrating the skin, treating eczema and psoriasis, fading dark spots, and it even acts as a natural sunscreen.
Astragalus Root
While astragalus has a number of health benefits for your entire body, it is especially helpful in skincare. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of astragalus can help remove surface impurities while detoxifying and purifying the skin. It also has the power to raise chi to lift and tighten skin.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of the most popular Eastern herbs that has infiltrated the Western health and beauty industry. The extensive healing powers of green tea extract comes from its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Drinking or applying green tea extract topically can impart vitamins and nutrients that slow down the aging process, protect the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage, fight UV damage, treat acne, unclog pores and maintain collagen levels.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyalauronic acid occurs naturally in the body to retain water and keep the skin hydrated and plump. The amount of hyaluronic acid in the body decreases as we age so it’s important to incorporate it into your skincare routine as an anti-aging tool. Hyaluronic acid encourages collagen formation by stimulating healthy tissue growth allowing the skin to regain elasticity, tone and an even texture.
Where to Find Key Extracts
JBK Wellness carries over 1,800 individual plants, roots, leaves, flowers, fruit and seeds to produce extracts for overall health as well as skincare formulas. The purest and most effective herbal ingredients are used in different quantities and for different purposes in order to create the most proficient formula. If you’re interested in incorporating key extracts into your skincare routine, contact us at (858) 263-4178 or info@JBKWellnessLabs.com