What Are Adaptogens and How Do They Work in Skin Care?

Looking to step up your skincare regimen? Before you do, there's one question you need to ask: what are adaptogens?

 

Adaptogens are a growing section of the wellness industry. In 2018, herbal dietary supplement sales increased to $8.84 billion; a 9.4% increase from the previous year. More people are relying on adaptogens—from celebrities to wellness gurus across the world.

So what exactly are adaptogens and how can they benefit your skincare process?

 

Keep reading to find out!

 

What Are Adaptogens?

Adaptogens are non-toxic herbs that can help the human body resist chemical, physical, and biological stressors. Used for Chinese and Ayurvedic healing, adaptogens work as supplements as well as everyday ingredients.

 

Adaptogens help our bodies learn how to deal with stress. As a result, we're able to find mental and physical balance. 

 

These herbs and mushrooms adapt their functions based on what the body needs. Certain compounds in each adaptogen can help the body either relax or rouse. Your body will trigger a different response based on what it needs at the moment. 

 

Adaptogens are produced in many forms, including:

• Powders
• Drinks
• Teas
• Tinctures

 

Today, people use adaptogen herbs as a healthy alternative to medications or stimulants.

 

Common Adaptogenic Ingredients

 

Each adaptogen can help treat the skin in different ways. Here are a few adaptogens you can use topically to bring your skin back into balance. 

 

Aloe vera calms upset and red skin by providing a protective layer of moisture. 

 

Ashwagandha is a strong antioxidant. It can help ease the stress that's causing clogged pores. As a result, ashwagandha is able to provide you with a bright, smooth complexion.

 

Like ashwagandha, holy basil can help decongest your pores, thereby purifying the skin. It's also effective for protecting your skin from external environmental stressors, such as air pollution. 

 

If you want brighter skin, try licorice root. Its powerful antioxidant boosting properties will promote beautiful, healthier-looking skin. 

 

Licorice root is also helpful for regulating cortisol levels. High amounts of cortisol can cause your skin to break out. By using this adaptogen, you can reduce acne flare-ups associated with cortisol and stress.

 

Gotu kola can help calm your skin. Like licorice root, this adaptogen produces healthy, glowing skin.

 

It's also capable of minimizing varicose veins and joint pain. Using gotu kola will also boost your focus, concentration, and memory. Use it at work for a productivity boost!

 

Moringa is an effective adaptogen for anti-aging. In addition to protecting your skin from natural elements, it also works to nurture and moisturize the skin. This can help prolong a youthful appearance while keeping your skin soft and smooth. 

 

Environmental stressors can also cause redness and discomfort. Using Phellinus linteus can help protect your skin from these stressors to alleviate upset skin symptoms.

These adaptogens are great for promoting an even skin tone while keeping your skin safe from external stressors.

 

Other Adaptogens

 

Other common adaptogenic ingredients include:

• Bacopa
• Ginseng
• Tree of life
• Shatavari
• Maca
• Licorice
• Astragalus
• Schizandra
• Reishi mushroom
• Eleuthero
• Codonopsis
• Milk thistle
• Rosemary

 

In addition to helping the skin, these adaptogen herbs can help improve cognitive function, prevent the flu, and increase your energy. While some of the benefits of adaptogens differ based on the herb, the main one is stress relief.

 

Benefits of Adaptogens

 

Today, many pharmacologists are exploring the connection between adaptogen herbs and natural treatments.

 

According to this research, adaptogens can also help people who suffer from insomnia. Adaptogens help produce cortisol, which relieves stress to help patients relax. 

 

The research also proved adaptogen's anti-inflammatory effects. Relieving inflammation can help patients with fibromyalgia, arthritis, and adrenal fatigue. 

 

So what are adaptogens in relation to skincare?

 

Stress can cause our bodies to produce a natural oil called sebum. Ongoing stress can also cause our skin to react with redness, premature aging, and hormone imbalances. Sebum is connected to acne breakouts, which is why we often associate stress with our skin.

 

Since adaptogens are able to adapt to what our bodies need, they're also able to:

• Balance natural oils
• Remove impurities beneath the skin
• Create natural defenses to protect the skin
• Soothe and calm angry skin
• Rejuvenate your complexion

 

For example, passionflower is an antibacterial adaptogen. It works to heal the skin and prevent wrinkling.

 

Goji berries, on the other hand, can stimulate collagen, improving your skin's elasticity to keep it looking youthful.

 

You can also try ginseng to increase collagen production and reduce wrinkles.

 

Reishi mushrooms are great for soothing irritated skin. Their anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant potential can also promote skin lesion regression. Whether you have sensitive skin or dry skin, these adaptogens can help.

 

By experiencing the benefits of adaptogens for yourself, you can regulate these issues for healthier, clearer skin. 

 

How Are Adaptogens Used?

 

There are a few different ways you might choose to use adaptogens as part of your beauty or overall wellness regimen. For example, you might decide to take these herbs in a high-quality concentrate mixed with water.

 

You can also add many of these adaptogen herbs into your daily diet. However, you'll need pharmaceutical-grade herbal preparations to get a strong enough dosage to notice a difference. 

 

Make sure to consult with a doctor to determine the proper mix of herbs and dosages that are right for your needs. 

 

You can also speak with a dermatologist. Ask "what are adaptogens I can use for my skin?" A dermatologist will help you address the specific skin concerns you're experiencing. 

 

In the meantime, take a look at some of the products you're currently using. Some products include adaptogens mixed in with the ingredients. In addition to some of the benefits of adaptogens mentioned above, these products can also help support your skin's immunity.

 

Adaptogens Are the Secret to Natural Skincare & Beauty

 

The secret is out! What are adaptogens again? They're natural herbs and mushrooms that can help bring balance and harmony to your body and skin.

 

By easing stress and bringing your body into balance, adaptogens can help soothe red or blemished skin. Whether you're concerned about acne or aging, adaptogens can help!

 

Searching for adaptogen skincare products? Take a look at our newest mask today!