The beauty industry has introduced us to some amazing ingredients over the past few years that are oh-so-good for our skin and hair. While some were simply fads, others have found a permanent spot on our skincare shelf. A new buzzword that has been doing the rounds of social media is adaptogens — a bunch of healthy herbs that deal with major skin woes to keep your skin looking luminous and healthy.
Here’s everything you need to know about adaptogens and their benefits for the skin.
What are adaptogens?
Simply put, adaptogens are nothing but herbs that provide your body with the strength (or allow it to ‘adapt’) to fight the problem of stress and fatigue that your body goes through. It is a commonly used treatment in ancient Ayurvedic medicine and is a great natural way to treat a lot of common ailments.
The reason they are used in skincare products is because they’re super effective when it comes to fighting the signs of stress on your skin caused mainly by environmental aggressors as well as other mental and physical stress to rejuvenate your skin and make it appear healthy and glowing.
What are some of the most common adaptogens used in skincare?
01. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is one of the most commonly used topical adaptogens in skincare. Infused with A, C, E, B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12, it helps to eliminate a number of skin issues. Additionally, the soothing properties of aloe vera work wonderfully to calm sunburn, dark spots and pigmentation.
02. Licorice root
If you have inflamed skin, licorice root is an amazing adaptogen to opt for. Owing to its antibacterial properties, it soothes and calms angry and irritated skin. Additionally, it’s packed with hydrating properties that help to moisturise your skin and reduce redness.
03. Maca
Several skin issues such as acne, anti-ageing are caused due to hormonal imbalance in the body. Enter: Maca. This herb not only helps balance your hormones but also helps draw out toxins from the body, thus keeping hormonal acne at bay. When applied topically, it can also protect the skin from sun damage.
04. Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is the most common and buzziest adaptogen out there. It is touted to be the perfect remedy to reverse the signs of stress caused by our modern lifestyle. Apart from balancing your hormones, it is a great way to protect your skin from free radical damage and reverse signs of ageing.
05. Rhodiola Rosea
Due to the increase in exposure to daily aggressors, coupled with the mental and physical stress of our lifestyle, premature appearance of fine lines and wrinkles have become common woe. Using products enriched with Rhodiola Rosea help boost collagen production and improve the skin’s elasticity to ensure that your skin looks plump and youthful.
Written by Urvi Dalal on Jul 22, 2020
Writer, avid reader and hardcore beauty enthusiast is the best way to describe Urvi Dalal. With over 5 years of writing experience in the beauty industry, you can trust her to have the latest skin, hair and makeup tidbits on her fingertips. In her time working as a beauty writer, she has had the opportunity to interact and work closely with a string of dermatologists, makeup artists and hairstylists. All that knowledge exchange, coupled with her flair and love for writing make it possible for her to bring you some authentic yet fun beauty content. When Urvi isn’t working, you’d usually catch her curled up with a big, fat book, drinking a cup of tea or practising her makeup skills; there is no in-between!