In the ever-evolving world of skincare, there's always a new buzzword that captures our attention and promises radiant, youthful skin. The latest sensation? Polyphenols! These powerful compounds are gaining popularity for their potential to transform your skincare routine (and your skin!). Let's delve into the world of polyphenols and discover why they're creating such a buzz in the beauty industry.
What Are Polyphenols?
Polyphenols are a group of naturally occurring compounds found in plants. They boast antioxidant properties, which means they help neutralize harmful free radicals that can damage the skin. Think of them as the superheroes of skincare, fighting off environmental aggressors and supporting your skin's overall health.
Why Do We Want Polyphenols in Our Skincare?
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Antioxidant Powerhouses: Polyphenols are renowned for their antioxidant properties, making them essential in combating oxidative stress! This, in turn, helps reduce the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles, and promotes a more youthful complexion.
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Anti-Inflammatory Champions: Inflammation is a common culprit behind various skin issues, including redness and acne. Polyphenols possess anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe irritated skin, promoting a calmer and more balanced complexion.
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Sun Damage Defence: Exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can accelerate skin aging and contribute to issues like hyperpigmentation. Polyphenols have been shown to offer some protection against UV damage, making them a valuable addition to your sun care routine.
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Collagen Boosters: Collagen is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. Polyphenols support collagen production, helping your skin maintain its youthful bounce and suppleness.
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Brightening Effects: If dull skin is a concern, polyphenols may be your new best friend! In skincare, they can aid in brightening the complexion by promoting a more even skin tone and reducing the appearance of dark spots.
How to Include Polyphenols in Your Skincare Routine - With Hark & Zander:
Here at H&Z, we recognise the incredible power and versatility of polyphenols when included in your skincare regimen. So much so, that we use a verity of polyphenols in every product we sell! Today, we'll give you a few of the highlights...
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Cannabis Sativa (Hempseed) Oil: Hempseeds, including their oil, contain polyphenolic compounds such as phenolic acids and lignans.
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Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil: Citrus fruits, including lemon peels, contain flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds.
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Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Seed Extract: Grapefruit seeds and their extract are known to contain polyphenols, including flavonoids.
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Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract: Ginkgo biloba is a plant rich in flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds.
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Macropiper Excelsum (Kawakawa) Leaf Extract: Kawakawa is a traditional Maori medicinal plant, and its leaves may contain polyphenolic compounds.
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Medicago Sativa (Alfalfa) Leaf Extract: Alfalfa is a source of various phytochemicals, including polyphenols.
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Melissa Officinalis (Lemon Balm) Leaf Extract: Lemon balm is known to contain polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids.
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Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract: Apples are rich in various polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.
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Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract: Calendula flowers may contain polyphenolic compounds.
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Algae Extract (NZ Red Seaweed): Some seaweeds, including red seaweeds, are known to contain polyphenols.
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Alaria Esculenta (Seaweed) Extract: Seaweeds, including Alaria esculenta, may contain polyphenols.
If you want to get the absolute most out of the polyphenols in your skincare, we recommend our MiracleFirm Smoothing Serum, and HempTonic Face Oil due to their potency! They can be used separately as treatments, or layered on top of each other (serum, then oil) for maximum effectiveness! To make it even easier to achieve gorgeous glowing skin, we have popped these two incredible products together in our Treatment Duo.
If you would like to read more about the amazing properties plant ingredients can bestow on our skin, check out our entry on the power of Calendula Flower Extract!
