Why Your Favorite House Plant Is Sprouting Up in Skincare
Adorning your abode with succulents is an easy way to bring life into your home. Even if you’re not a pro at keeping greenery alive, the desert plants are pretty foolproof because they hold onto every last drop of hydration. This is exactly why ingredients from succulents like aloe vera, prickly pear, and yucca are sprouting up in skincare products. “Much research is being done on various adaptogenic ingredients [like those in succulents], because the ability to survive harsh environmental conditions has been found to translate to skin benefits,” explains Adrienne Penna, director of skincare product development at MAKE. Read on to learn about three standout succulent ingredients and how they can refresh your complexion.
Aloe Vera
It’s no secret that aloe vera, chock-full of active enzymes, vitamins, proteins, and minerals, is a skincare savior. “This incredible plant remedy provides deep, nourishing moisture to the skin, as well as an amazing array of antioxidants and vitamins including gibberellin, which stimulates cell growth and speeds up healing,” says holistic esthetician Tammy Fender. The soothing and anti-inflammatory powers of an aloe-enriched serum can work wonders on sensitive skin’s flare-ups and inflammation. Brit + Co Pick: Monastery Aloe Hyaluronic Gel ($72)
Prickly Pear
Prickly pear is more than just a stunning plant or pretty pink margarita flavor. The succulent, whose nutrients are housed mainly in its seeds, is packed with amino acids, vitamins B and E, and antioxidants, making it a popular ingredient in anti-aging products. “Prickly pear has soothing, comforting, and hydrating benefits,” explains Penna. “It also has additional long-term firming benefits and can help provide increased resilience to the skin.” The high antioxidant count helps shield the skin from environmental damage and moisture loss, which all skin types can benefit from. Consider adding an oil or serum packed with prickly pear to lift tired skin, make under-eyes appear younger by lightening and brightening the area, and nourish and hydrate your complexion. Brit + Co Pick: Kahina Giving Beauty Prickly Pear Seed Oil ($150)
Yucca
This desert-dwelling succulent can get your skin back in tip-top shape. Its high level of vitamin C boosts collagen production, so elasticity and moisture levels are maintained, resulting in a youthful look. Yucca is also known to help heal wounds and post-acne marks, and it works well for sensitive skin. “Yucca has been used for centuries as a natural anti-inflammatory,” says Soapwalla founder Rachel Winard. If you’re dealing with irritation from breakouts, allergies, or sun damage, using a yucca-enhanced product can speed up the healing process. “Yucca is also a natural, gentle way to cleanse,” Winard says. Adding a yucca moisturizer into the mix can aid in repairing and nourishing skin. Brit + Co Pick: Yucca Skincare Yucca Root Facial Moisturizer ($28)
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