In the practice of holistic skincare, it is believed that natural ingredients can do more wonder or just as much as chemical derivatives to our skin. Many natural ingredients have been used medicinally, incorporated into diets and proven effective for centuries. These natural delights are often gentle on the skin without serious side effects or other complications, whereas chemicals found in skincare tend to come with a warning sign for those of the sensitive skin type. In comparison, natural ingredients might have the slight disadvantage of being less effective in showing results, yet in the long run, they might benefit the skin more than anything. Let’s have a look at a few of our best-kept natural secrets.
- Kiwifruit
Besides being one of New Zealand’s most known exports, Kiwifruit is a super fruit with an abundance of nutrients. The high amount of antioxidants found in kiwifruit makes it extremely beneficial for skin health. It is particularly rich in vitamin C and vitamin K , has a moderate content of vitamin E . Gold kiwifruit has similar nutritional value, but higher vitamin C content. Kiwifruit seed oil contains on average 62% alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid.[39] Kiwifruit pulp contains carotenoids, such as provitamin A beta-carotene,[40] lutein and zeaxanthin.[41] The antioxidants from kiwifruit extract are great for fighting off free radicals hence preventing skin from aging, while the healthy fats and acids in kiwifruit seed oil is able to promote cell regeneration and strengthen skin barrier.
2. Aloe Vera
For any skincare enthusiast, aloe vera isn’t a strange name. This powerful gel-textured plant has been a regular in most skincare products on the market, also possibly frequenting your home DIY beauty recipes. The plant itself is a water bomb, offering instant hydration to replenish dehydrated skin, chaffed skin and sunburns. Besides its moisturising power, Aloe vera also packs heaps of vitamins, great for calming any skin irritations and revitalise skin health.
3. Kawakawa
A native plant to New Zealand, Kawakawa has been one of the most important herbs in Maori medicine. Kawakawa’s antimicrobial and analgesic properties make it useful for treating infections, and it is helpful in reducing inflammation of various skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and rashes.
4. Manuka Tree
Another New Zealand native plant, Manuka is probably most known for its byproduct Manuka honey. Manuka honey has earned its immense popularity thanks to its prominent antiviral, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. It has been proven successful in treating acne and clearing up skin blemishes. With many great medicinal attributes, Manuka’s exceptionally effective in wound healing due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it great for aging preventions and soothing skin irritations.
5. Rosehip
Rosehip usually presents as rosehip oil in cosmetics. It is the one of the few oils that can actually hydrate skin for a supple appearance. Rosehip oil also contains a wide range of essential fatty acids, including linoleic and linolenic acid. These fatty acids help strengthen skin barrier and prevent moisture from losing. Due to the high content of vitamin A found in Rosehip – an essential antioxidant with proven anti-aging effect, Rosehip oil is able to boost collagen production, reduce inflammation and protect skin from sun damages to a degree.
You can find all of the aforementioned super skin ingredients across our current skincare range. With kiwifruit, kawakawa and Manuka being New Zealand natives, we take pride in our advanced formulations with these stellar ingredients. Here at One Cosmetics, we source from the best suppliers in New Zealand so we can put nature in a bottle for every skin type.
