Home > skincare
Posted on:

The Benefits of Collagen: Focus on Joint + Skin Matrix

The benefits of collagen extend far beyond just skin health. Collagen provides proven support for joint health, hair, nails, anti-ageing, muscle recovery and overall tissue repair.  This makes it an essential protein for maintaining youthful vitality and wellness.

Whilst undoubtedly a star ingredient, not all collagen products are created equal. The quality of different collagens available varies enormously.

Joint and Skin Matrix contains the highly regarded and well-researched BioCell Collagen™ Type II Collagen Peptides, a patented form of hydrolysed collagen. Hydrolysed collagen refers to collagen that manufacturers break down into small peptides, making it easier for the body to digest. BioCell Collagen™ has been the subject of seven clinical studies, showing its superior bioavailability and proven benefits due to its collagen type, source, molecular size, composition, manufacturing process and dosage.

The peptides are rich in a natural matrix of collagen type II, hyaluronic acid, and chondroitin sulphate. All three play vital roles in maintaining the structure and function of cartilage and other tissues.

Additional research also suggests that BioCell Collagen™ stimulates the natural process of collagen regeneration in the body, increasing all the significant collagen types – I, II, and III – found in the joints, skin and other connective tissues.

A Pure Source of Collagen

BioCell Collagen™ is made from pure dietary chicken sternal cartilage and is free from hormones and antibiotics. Chicken sternal cartilage closely mirrors the composition of human cartilage rich in type II collagen, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. Most companies derive collagen ingredients from the entire carcasses of animals. Chicken sternal cartilage is a clean source, free from blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves that carry impurities. Extracting exclusively from cartilage eliminates the risk of potential contamination. The production process uses a patented manufacturing procedure that includes filtration, purification, concentration, hydrolysis, and sterilisation to ensure consistent quality and safety.

 

The Benefits of Collagen for Joint Health, Mobility and Sports Nutrition

Collagen is closely associated with joint health and mobility as it is the most abundant protein in joint cartilage. It provides essential structural support for the body’s connective tissue.

Type II collagen is known to have targeted and beneficial properties for articular cartilage, joints, bones, connective tissues, and muscles. It can also support functional recovery from exercise.

Hyaluronic acid supports joint lubrication, while chondroitin sulphate, described as one of the building blocks of cartilage, enhances the shock-absorbing properties of joint cartilage. Studies have shown that this collagen supplement can reduce joint stiffness and improve overall mobility. Individuals with osteoarthritis or joint discomfort have particularly benefited from this.

One clinical study demonstrated that a 2g daily dose significantly reduced pain levels reported by osteoarthritis sufferers. It also helped manage their symptoms and significantly improved their physical activity.

Another clinical study showed beneficial effects on connective tissue protection and recovery after physical activity. This is particularly useful for athletes or individuals undergoing physical rehabilitation, as it may aid in the recovery of strained or damaged tissues.

 

The Benefits of Collagen for Healthy Hair and Nails

Collagen and hyaluronic acid are essential for nourishment and hydration of the dermal layers of the scalp for healthy, lustrous hair. Keratin, the same protein that builds hair, also forms fingernails and toenails. The BioCell Collagen™ in Joint + Skin Matrix is rich in sulphur-containing amino acids that promote keratin production for the growth of healthy nails. The nail bed is made of connective tissue and comprises collagen and hyaluronic acid, both essential for maintaining nail health.

 

The Benefits of Collagen for Skin Health and Anti-Ageing Support

Hyaluronic acid is known for its ability to retain water, keeping the skin plump and hydrated. Ageing is associated with increased hyaluronidase activity, which accelerates the breakdown of hyaluronic acid. The ingredients in Joint + Skin Matrix are proven to have properties that demonstrate strong hyaluronidase inhibition. This helps protect the skin’s hyaluronic acid from degrading and keeps the skin soft, supple, and elastic. The collagen and chondroitin sulphate also in the supplement can also contribute to skin firmness and a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

A study showed a reduction in the visible signs of facial ageing, such as skin dryness, crow’s feet lines and wrinkles, and increased skin elasticity and collagen content in the dermis by 12% with no reported side effects.

 

Conclusion

Researchers have studied the ingredients in Joint + Skin Matrix to ensure their safety, effectiveness, and purity.

This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking joint and bone health, improvements to skin, hair and nails, and overall connective tissue maintenance. It’s also especially promising for individuals with osteoarthritis, active lifestyles, or those looking for anti-ageing support.

Posted on:

Olive Leaf Extract: A Mediterranean Gift for Your Health

Olive leaf extract (OLE) is showing promise for improving immunity, aiding heart and circulation, brain health, skin health and sugar balance. Studies have shown it can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol and even has the potential for weight loss.

Introduction

A branch of olive leaves is popularly known as a symbol of peace and reconciliation. However, when looking for natural health gifts from around the world, it is becoming more widely recognised that the olive leaf, valued in Mediterranean countries as part of that region’s traditional medicines, has many health benefits.  

Derived from the leaves of the olive tree (Olea europaea), this extract is rich in bioactive compounds, most notably oleuropein. Oleuropein is a type of polyphenol, a class of antioxidants known for their health-promoting properties. In addition, olive leaf extract contains several other beneficial compounds, including hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and various flavonoids, all contributing to its robust antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Immune System Support: Strengthening Your Body’s Defence Mechanisms

A sturdy immune system is critical for maintaining overall health, especially as various environmental stressors and pathogens are constants in our lives. Olive leaf extract has shown significant promise in supporting immune function. The antioxidants in the extract help neutralise free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases. OLE can bolster the immune system by reducing oxidative stress, making it more efficient at defending the body against infections.

Moreover, some studies suggest that oleuropein can stimulate the activity of certain immune cells, such as macrophages and natural killer cells, enhancing the body’s ability to fight off harmful invaders. This makes olive leaf extract a valuable supplement, particularly during cold and flu seasons, when the immune system is often under increased pressure. Adding zinc can provide even more immune support.

Cardiovascular Health: Supporting Heart and Circulatory System

Olive leaf extract’s benefits for cardiovascular health are well-documented. Its polyphenols, especially oleuropein, have been shown to affect blood pressure regulation positively. They help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the strain on the heart. One study found it just as effective as a popular blood pressure drug treatment.

Research also indicates that OLE can help lower LDL cholesterol levels (often referred to as “bad” cholesterol) while maintaining or even increasing HDL cholesterol levels (often considered to be “good” cholesterol).

Antioxidant Power: Combating Free Radicals and Ageing

Antioxidants play a critical role in protecting the body from oxidative stress, which can lead to cellular damage and accelerate ageing. Olive leaf extract is a powerhouse of antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to any anti-ageing protocol.

By neutralising free radicals, olive leaf extract helps protect cells from damage and supports the body’s overall longevity. This is particularly important for skin health, as oxidative stress can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and other skin issues. Therefore, regular supplementation with olive leaf extract can contribute to maintaining youthful, healthy skin by combating the effects of environmental stressors.

Managing Inflammation: Easing Pain and Discomfort

Chronic inflammation is known to be a significant contributor to various health issues, including arthritis, heart disease, and even some cancers. Again, the potent anti-inflammatory properties of OLE also come into play here.

The compounds work by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby helping to reduce inflammation in the body. For individuals suffering from conditions such as arthritis, this can help reduce pain and discomfort. Additionally, olive leaf extract may help prevent the onset of inflammation-related diseases by promoting a balanced inflammatory response.

Antimicrobial Properties: Nature’s Defence Against Pathogens

Long before the advent of antibiotics, ancient civilisations used olive leaves for their natural antimicrobial properties. Modern research has confirmed that olive leaf extract possesses potent antimicrobial effects, capable of inhibiting the growth of a variety of harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

This property makes OLE a valuable natural option for supporting the body’s defences against infections. It can be particularly beneficial for individuals looking to avoid the overuse of antibiotics or those interested in a natural approach to maintaining oral and digestive health, where microbial balance is vital.

Cognitive Health: Protecting and Enhancing Brain Function

As we age, maintaining cognitive health becomes increasingly important. Olive leaf extract’s antioxidant properties extend to the brain, where they may help protect neurons from oxidative damage. Oxidative stress is a known contributor to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Olive leaf extract may help preserve cognitive function and support mental clarity by reducing oxidative stress in the brain. Some studies have even suggested that the polyphenols in olive leaf extract can enhance learning and memory, making it a valuable supplement for those looking to maintain sharp cognitive function throughout their lives.

Blood Sugar Regulation: Supporting Metabolic Health

Another area where olive leaf extract shows promise is regulating blood sugar levels. This benefit is particularly relevant for individuals with insulin resistance or those at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Research has shown the compounds in OLE can enhance insulin sensitivity, making it easier for the body to manage blood glucose levels. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of OLE may help protect pancreatic cells—the cells responsible for insulin production—from damage. This dual action not only supports current metabolic health but may also play a role in helping to prevent the onset of diabetes-related complications.

In addition, early research on animals suggests that olive leaf extract may also help prevent obesity by regulating the expression of genes associated with weight gain. Additionally, it has been found to potentially reduce food intake.

Incorporating Olive Leaf Extract into Your Wellness Routine

Given its wide range of health benefits, Olive leaf extract can be a powerful addition to your wellness regime. However, always remember to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing medical conditions or are taking medications. 

OLE is a testament to nature’s healing power. Its potential benefits are wide-ranging and profound, from its immune-boosting effects to its ability to support cardiovascular health, fight free radicals, manage inflammation, and enhance cognitive and metabolic function. In essence, olive leaf extract offers a natural, time-tested option for those seeking to optimise their health and well-being.

Olive Leaf Extract with Zinc

Posted on:

The Benefits of Astaxanthin for Optimal Health

The benefits of astaxanthin as a uniquely potent antioxidant are wide-ranging for health and anti-ageing.  Commonly derived from algae, astaxanthin can be helpful for many issues, including osteoarthritis, menopause symptoms, skin health, diabetes, mental fatigue, brain health and heart health, and may even activate the longevity gene FOXO3. It can also support the immune system by promoting the activation of white blood cells.

Why do we need antioxidants?

Free radicals are molecules with unpaired electrons, making them highly reactive. This reactivity allows oxidation, a process where they can damage other molecules and create a chain reaction.

To counteract this damage, antioxidants step in to neutralise free radicals before they can harm other molecules. They do this by adding an extra electron to the unpaired ones.

While both antioxidants and free radicals naturally coexist in the body, an imbalance with too many free radicals and insufficient antioxidants can lead to oxidative stress. This oxidative stress can damage fatty tissues, proteins, and DNA. This damage, in turn, contributes to various health risks, such as heart disease, cancer, and accelerated ageing.

Research indicates that in antioxidant potency, astaxanthin surpasses other carotenoids such as beta carotene, lycopene, and lutein. It is a significant resource for helping protect cells against oxidative stress, offering robust cellular protection.

When a person takes astaxanthin, it is absorbed into all the tissues and cells, creating a shield. The antioxidant has a unique structure that neutralises free radicals in the cell membrane’s inner and outer layers.

Introducing carotenoids

Carotenoids are natural compounds found in plants, crucial for photosynthesis and energy conversion. With over 600 different types, including well-known ones like beta carotene and lycopene, carotenoids boast potent antioxidant properties that combat free radicals.

However, the human body cannot produce carotenoids on its own. Diet or topical application is necessary to harness the immune-boosting and antioxidant benefits, particularly from potent varieties like astaxanthin. Often regarded as the “king of carotenoids,” astaxanthin derives its reddish hue from algae and offers exceptional health-promoting properties.

What Are the Sources of Astaxanthin?

Astaxanthin originates naturally from the algae Haematococcus Pluvialis. It is also found in certain marine organisms such as salmon, trout, lobster, and shrimp, contributing to their distinctive pink or red hue. Interestingly, the consumption of algae rich in astaxanthin results in the vibrant colouring of flamingos.

Among natural sources, Haematococcus Pluvialis algae boast the highest concentration of astaxanthin, with approximately 3 per cent of their total mass comprising this compound. Recognised by the FDA as a safe dietary source of astaxanthin, pluvialis algae offers unparalleled potency.

Alternatively, red yeast, or phaffia rhodozyma, serves as another source, albeit with lower levels of the compound. Synthetic astaxanthin is mainly used in food colouring and fish feed production. It is considerably less effective as a supplement.

Incorporating the Benefits of Astaxanthin into Your Routine

While astaxanthin is present in certain foods, obtaining adequate amounts through diet can be challenging. For example, wild sockeye salmon boasts the highest concentration and about four times as much as farmed Atlantic salmon. Even then, relying solely on salmon consumption to meet daily requirements would necessitate consuming a significant amount.

Given the difficulty of obtaining sufficient astaxanthin from food sources, many turn to supplements.

When selecting an astaxanthin supplement, it is advisable to opt for products derived from natural sources, devoid of harmful additives, and subject to third-party testing for purity and potency. Astaxanthin is a fat-soluble compound that is more easily absorbed when taken with oil, such as DHA.

Try to avoid synthetic astaxanthin, which offers markedly lower benefits. Synthetic astaxanthin is known to be approximately 20 times less efficient in combating free radicals.

The Benefits of Astaxanthin for Health

Heart health

High blood pressure, high LDL cholesterol, and oxidative stress can all lead to a diagnosis of heart disease.

Studies have shown astaxanthin has the potential to increase the levels of good HDL cholesterol, reduce levels of LDL, and decrease blood pressure by improving the elasticity and thickness of the walls of the arteries. There is also evidence of reduced blood oxidation and improved clotting.

Joint pains and osteoarthritis

The body constantly replaces old, worn-out cells with new ones, which is also true of cartilage cells. All is well when the new ones keep pace with replacing the old degrading ones. However, as individuals age, this can change. A diminished capacity to replenish new cells as old ones degenerate can result in osteoarthritis, a condition characterised by stiffness, pain, and inflammation in the affected joints.

Emerging research suggests that astaxanthin possesses the potential to help restore this delicate balance by promoting the regeneration of cartilage cells while at the same time mitigating inflammation associated with arthritis. Moreover, it exhibits promise in halting the deterioration of cartilage cells altogether. These findings indicate that astaxanthin supplementation may slow the progression of osteoarthritis and alleviate its symptoms, thereby enhancing one’s overall quality of life with advancing age.

Astaxanthin For Skin Health and Anti-ageing

Astaxanthin is emerging as a natural powerhouse in supporting youthful skin longevity.

The Haematococcus Pluvialis algae naturally produces astaxanthin to protect it from the effects of radiation from the sun.

UV rays damage the skin and can accelerate ageing. A 2018 study demonstrated significant differences in moisture retention and skin damage between subjects who received astaxanthin and those who received a placebo after UV exposure.

Studies have also shown that taking astaxanthin significantly improves the appearance of wrinkles, crow’s feet, and age spots.

Brain Health

Studies indicate that oxidative stress could contribute to the advancement of cognitive decline, suggesting that antioxidant supplementation might offer benefits as we age as our oxidative capacities alter over time.

A recent clinical trial looked at the impact of astaxanthin supplementation on individuals exhibiting mild cognitive impairment or early-stage dementia. Findings revealed improvements in comprehending and executing complex tasks efficiently and accurately.

There can also be improvements for mental fatigue or foggy brain.

Eye Health

The eyes are particularly vulnerable to oxidative stress, and that is where astaxanthin excels. There is evidence that it can play a part in helping many common eye issues.

Astaxanthin has demonstrated the capacity to enhance ocular blood flow velocity, facilitating the replenishment of oxygen to retinal and other eye tissues while aiding in efficiently removing toxins and waste products. It even has the potential to protect the retinas from light-induced damage.

Sugar Balance and Diabetes

There have been encouraging results when looking at the impact of astaxanthin on diabetes. Astaxanthin has shown promise in assisting individuals with type 2 diabetes to reduce blood pressure. In addition, a 2018 study revealed that participants experienced improved sugar metabolism.

Menopause

Menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, are frequently linked to elevated levels of cortisol and oxidative stress. Astaxanthin may assist in reducing the oxidative stress burden, thereby potentially alleviating symptoms commonly associated with menopause.

Conclusion

In summary, astaxanthin offers diverse health benefits, making it a valuable addition to one’s wellness routine. As a potent antioxidant, it helps combat oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage and promoting overall health. It has been associated with improved skin health, including moisture retention and reduction in wrinkles, as well as supporting joint function and eye health. Additionally, studies suggest its potential to enhance cognitive function, support heart health by lowering blood pressure and improving cholesterol levels, and modulate the immune system. For those experiencing menopausal symptoms, astaxanthin may offer relief by mitigating oxidative stress. Incorporating astaxanthin into your daily protocol is, therefore, worth considering.

Recommended Product

Posted on:

Sea Buckthorn: ‘The Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World’

What is sea buckthorn? 

Since the formation of the Himalayas, sea buckthorn has withstood the harsh weather conditions of the Tibetan highlands. This resilient plant yields exceptionally nutritious bright orange berries on its thorny branches. Renowned for containing over 190 bioactive nutrients crucial for health, sea buckthorn has received the accolade of the “Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World.” 

The botanical name, Hippophae rhamnoides, means “The Shiny Horse.” According to ancient legend, debilitated war horses were released into sea buckthorn forests to roam freely. They were remarkably robust and healthy when they returned with glossy, radiant coats. According to Mongol tradition, Genghis Khan attributed his armies’ remarkable strength, endurance and conquests to sea buckthorn. 

What makes sea buckthorn so good?

Plant oils usually have a complex network of nutrients. Sea buckthorn oil is considered outstanding in this regard. It contains omegas 3, 7, 6 & 9, natural vitamin E and a vast array of other nutrients. In fact, it’s an antioxidant powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It has a unique nutritional composition of phytonutrients and potent antioxidants. It includes SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, along with carotenoids, tocopherols, phytosterols, phospholipids, anti-inflammatory compounds such as ellagic acid, folic acid, ferulic acid, tannins, flavonoids including quercetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and more. 

One notable feature of sea buckthorn is its high content of Omega 7. Omega 7 is a less widely recognised fatty acid renowned for its health, wellness, and cosmetic applications. It has shown promise for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels. It can help smooth artery passages and help keep artery walls strong. In addition, Omega 7 has the potential to support cellular health, provide moisture, and soothe the digestive system. It has also gained popularity as a key ingredient in beauty, skincare and anti-ageing products. Despite being present in certain fish and nuts, sea buckthorn berries stand out as a richer source of Omega 7. 

Balance the omegas

Omega-3 and omega-6 are essential fatty acids, meaning your body needs them but cannot make them naturally. However, a balanced intake between the two is considered essential. The consumption of vegetable oils high in omega-6 has increased dramatically in the past 100 years. Research indicates a high intake of omega-6 relative to omega-3 may cause issues, particularly for heart health and several chronic diseases. 

A pre-industrial diet typically maintained an omega-6 to omega-3 ratio ranging from approximately 4:1 to 1:4. By contrast, a typical Western diet today has been estimated to average a ratio of 16:1 and can go much higher. Sea buckthorn, however, maintains a naturally balanced omega 3:6 ratio, approximating a ratio of 1:1. This makes it a healthy choice to help redress these imbalances. 

Oily fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines, fish oil and flaxseed oil, flaxseeds, walnuts, and chia seeds are all excellent sources of omega-3. And, of course, so is sea buckthorn. Processed seeds and nut oils are all sources of omega-6, and the increasing prevalence of these products in the diet is one of the reasons for the significant increase in the ratios. 

What health issues is sea buckthorn helpful for, and why

So, what are the particular benefits of this highly nutritious plant? As you might guess, with so many nutrients in one product, the issues it can assist are many and varied. 

Sea-buckthorn oil can contribute to enhanced blood circulation. It can also help promote skin oxygenation and facilitate the elimination of excess toxins from the body.  

Because it can help bring moisture into the cells, as well as being rich in unsaturated fat, antioxidants, phytosterols, carotenoids, and vitamins E and K, sea buckthorn is helpful as a beauty product. It can protect the skin’s integrity, promote its renewal and help dehydrated skin as well as wrinkles and fine lines. Its impact is further realised within the skin, where gamma-linolenic acid is converted to prostaglandins. This offers protection against infections, allergy prevention, inflammation reduction, and inhibition of the ageing process. It may also help repair damaged hair and restore its elasticity and smoothness. Maybe the legend of the ‘shiny horses’ isn’t such a legend after all!  

Mucous membranes play a pivotal role in moisture regulation. However, they are susceptible to oxidative stress from free radicals, leading to inflammation and dryness. Sea buckthorn’s diverse nutrients are essential for the upkeep of the mucous membrane cells. These cells line sensitive areas of the body, such as the eyes, digestive system, and genital regions. For this reason, sea buckthorn can be helpful for conditions like dry eyes, dry mouth and intimate dryness around menopause.

Sea buckthorn provides potential support for cardiovascular health and diabetes

Sea buckthorn oil has the potential to support cardiovascular health by mitigating blood pressure, enhancing cholesterol profiles, and offering protection against the formation of blood clots. It also exhibits the potential to enhance insulin secretion, which in turn helps to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, factors that may contribute to protection against the onset of type 2 diabetes. 

The high flavonoid and antioxidant content may help the immune system, while healthy fats, vitamin E, and carotenoids may protect liver cells from damage. 

Sea buckthorn offers some possible anticancer effects due to its bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and antioxidants. Notably, sea buckthorn is particularly abundant in quercetin, a flavonoid that research has demonstrated properties conducive to inhibiting cancer cell proliferation. 

Conclusion

Sea buckthorn, often considered “The Most Perfect Plant in the Whole World”, provides over 190 bioactive nutrients significant for health and beauty. Its wide array of beneficial properties, including antioxidant and antibacterial, demonstrate its importance for natural health and potentially valuable impact on cardiovascular health, immune support, skin quality, and overall well-being. Sea Buckthorn’s unique omega-rich composition distinguishes it as a powerful botanical resource.

Posted on:

The Benefits of Bakuchiol – The New Beauty Buzzword

 

Dubbed a ‘Holy Grail’ ingredient and a new skincare sensation, bakuchiol has become something of a beauty buzzword. It has gained serious traction to break beyond the realms of the natural beauty community and make its way into the mainstream. We delve into the benefits of bakuchiol and how this powerful plant-based retinol alternative can work for your complexion and explore why it is such a valuable addition to any daily skincare regimen.

 

What is Bakuchiol?

Derived from the seeds of the Psoralea corylifolia plant, bakuchiol is a potent antioxidant yet also has a profoundly soothing effect on the skin. The use of bakuchiol on the skin has its origins in Ayurvedic medicine. This long history of traditional application is a testament to its efficacy in the treatment of conditions such as eczema as well as minor skin ailments.

It rivals retinol in its anti-ageing capabilities – a study by Dhaliwal et al. (2019) demonstrated that bakuchiol is comparable with retinol in its ability to improve photoageing. This may be because its activity profile – the way it acts upon our skin cells – shares many common features with retinol, but excitingly, a further 2022 study by Bluemke et al. found that bakuchiol even has additional ‘biopositive effects’, or skin health benefits. These include accelerated epidermal regeneration and wound healing, meaning that bakuchiol shows excellent promise in stimulating cell turnover for more radiant skin and aiding in clearing minor blemishes and skin irritations. Overall, the study concluded that there is strong evidence ‘for the multidirectional efficacy of bakuchiol against cellular hallmarks of skin ageing.’ (Bluemke et al., 2022)

 

Are The Benefits of Bakuchiol Available to Anyone?

Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is found to be exceptionally well-tolerated and suitable even for those with more sensitive skin types. Studies have reported that, ‘Notably, bakuchiol does not cause common adverse effects seen with topical retinoids such as burning and scaling, permitting wider use in patients with sensitive skin.’ (Greenzaid et al., 2022). A significant advantage of formulas containing bakuchiol is that they are safe and gentle for daily use. By contrast, there are restrictions on the frequency of use of retinol products, often recommended to use only once or twice per week.

 

What Other Ingredients Can Be Used to Optimise The Benefits of Bakuchiol?

Bakuchiol is effective when used in conjunction with other skincare ingredients, especially antioxidants such as Co-Enzyme Q10. A naturally occurring enzyme produced by the body, CoQ10 is one of the essential building blocks for healthy, glowing skin, aiding in cell repair and regeneration. This antioxidant powerhouse also uses the same pathway as Vitamin C to neutralise free radicals. A favourite within popular skincare formulations for many years, CoQ10 takes on a new dimension when paired with bakuchiol. Together, these powerful antioxidants can support healthier, youthful-looking skin by protecting against environmental aggressors, such as pollution and sun exposure.

 

Conclusion

Bakuchiol is a gentle, safe, and natural skincare ingredient that is perfect for any clean beauty routine.

The benefits of bakuchiol relate to its potential to improve a wide array of skin concerns. This is thanks to its ability to regenerate the epidermis and facilitate faster healing. Furthermore, it can help with visible signs of ageing. Its efficacy is enhanced when combined with other natural ingredients, such as CoQ10.

It can be used by people of all skin types, making it an excellent choice for those whose options for facial skincare products may otherwise be limited. However, we always recommend testing before using any new product, as individual results can vary.

 

References 

Bluemke A, Ring AP, Immeyer J, Hoff A, Eisenberg T, Gerwat W, et al. Multidirectional activity of bakuchiol against cellular mechanisms of facial ageing – Experimental evidence for a holistic treatment approach. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2022;44:377–393. doi:10.1111/ics.12784

Dhaliwal S, Rybak I, Ellis SR, Notay M, Trivedi M, Burney W, Vaughn AR, Nguyen M, Reiter P, Bosanac S, Yan H, Foolad N, Sivamani RK. Prospective, randomized, double-blind assessment of topical bakuchiol and retinol for facial photoageing. Br J Dermatol. 2019 Feb;180(2):289-296. doi: 10.1111/bjd.16918. Epub 2018 Sep 21. PMID: 29947134.

Greenzaid J, Friedman A, Sodha P. The Use of Bakuchiol in Dermatology: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Evidence. J Drugs Dermatol. 2022 Jun 1;21(6):624-629. doi: 10.36849/JDD.6740. PMID: 35674758.

Add to cart