Over several past decades, the cosmetic business has been driven by general trends that range from completely synthetic beauty to all-natural products. Nowadays we can say that the cosmetic industry is generally moving in between both extremes - that is looking into nature and natural compounds and how to supplement their products in the best way.
Why include phytochemicals in cosmetics?
To back this idea up, we can look into ancient times when a lot of plants were used for their beneficial effect on our skin or into present times by the enormous research that scientists have done for every single compound that can be isolated from the same plants.
By all means, phytochemicals can provide us with a large variety of benefits due to the large variety of compounds that can be sourced from nature. Phytochemicals have been used to improve various aspects of the final product:
- Reduces allergic reaction
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Promote healing
- Anti-oxidative protection
- UV-protection
- Biocompatibility
- And more.
What products could use phytochemicals?
Anti-aging products
One of the main classes of cosmetic products, where phytochemicals could benefit the most are anti-aging products.
First of all, many natural compounds like caffeic acid exhibit high anti-oxidative potential. Typically skin aging is caused by a harmful environment that usually causes high oxidative stress.
Secondly, these natural chemicals can enhance your body's natural response to aging processes by promoting the formation of collagen and other necessary proteins.
Products for problematic skin
Many phytochemicals have been known to promote the healing of the skin. For example, dihydromyricetin has been known to reduce inflammation and swelling enhancing our body's natural ability to provide problematic areas with nutrients.
Due to the similarities with natural hormones in our body, many phytochemicals promote healing in the cases of eczema and psoriasis. These compounds stimulate the synthesis of various enzymes that are responsible for creating new cells and tissue.
Products with that exhibit allergic reaction
And mainly, synthetic compounds might promote allergic reactions when skin is treated with a recommended product. Due to the similarities to our own hormones, a lot of phytochemicals could be more biocompatible with our bodies.
Furthermore, due to the positive effects mentioned above, other phytochemicals might treat symptoms associated with allergic reactions.
In conclusion
We believe, that phytochemicals are a great addition to various cosmetic products with many beneficial effects. Moreover, as the current trends make products including phytochemicals more popular, it is quite odd, not to do so in your own product development.