Skincare Journal

Harnessing the Power of Horsetail: A Time-Tested Herb for Skin Revitalization

Harnessing the Power of Horsetail: A Time-Tested Herb for Skin Revitalization

If you've noticed your skin lacking its usual vibrancy or firmness, it might be time to turn to a remedy that has stood the test of time.

Horsetail, a 'living fossil' known scientifically as Equisetum arvense, is not only a testament to nature's resilience but also a treasure trove of benefits for your skin. 

This ancient herb, native to the Northern Hemisphere and prevalent across European landscapes, goes by various names such as mare’s tail, shave grass, scouring rush, and bottlebrush, each reflecting a unique aspect of its appearance or traditional uses.

The history of horsetail

Horsetail's journey through time is as fascinating as its benefits. Esteemed by ancient Greeks and Romans, its medicinal properties were first documented by the Greek physician Claudius Galenus in the 17th century.

This herb was utilized extensively for its ability to combat fluid retention, support hair, skin, and nail health, and even treat osteoporosis and kidney issues.

Its broad application in traditional medicine across cultures, including China and Europe, underscores its versatility and enduring value.

The skin-boosting benefits of horsetail

Supports collagen production

Horsetail stands out in the botanical world for its unparalleled levels of bioavailable silicon, present as silica and silica acids

This trace mineral is crucial for the synthesis of collagen, a protein that lends skin its strength and elasticity. By bolstering collagen production, horsetail helps enhance skin resiliency and firmness, providing a smoother, more youthful complexion.

Revitalizing properties

Rich in isoquercitrin, a potent flavonoid, horsetail may help to accelerate cellular renewal. This action not only aids in the rapid recovery of skin tissues but also combats the effects of premature photo-aging, ensuring your skin remains vibrant and resilient.

Tames angry skin

The anti-inflammatory properties of horsetail play a significant role in quelling reactive skin. By interrupting the body’s inflammatory response, it minimizes potential damage to skin structures and wards off premature aging, offering a calming effect on angry skin.

Antioxidant-rich

Horsetail's abundance in natural flavonoids and antioxidants equips it to neutralize harmful free radicals generated by stress, environmental pollutants, UV rays, and electronic devices. 

This protective action helps prevent lipid peroxidation and DNA damage, safeguarding the skin from accelerated aging.

Nourishing and moisturizing

As a natural source of a wide array of phytonutrients and minerals, including calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and vitamins, horsetail serves as a powerful nutritive tonic for the skin. It improves skin barrier health and aids in moisture retention, leading to a soft, dewy complexion.

Incorporated into our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, horsetail enriches the skin with its unique blend of minerals and antioxidants, promoting collagen synthesis for a firm and smooth complexion. 

Whether you're looking to revitalize dull skin, enhance moisture retention, or protect against environmental stressors, horsetail offers a multifaceted approach to skin health that has been refined over millennia.

Horsetail's enduring presence and multifunctional benefits make it a cornerstone ingredient for anyone seeking to rejuvenate their skin naturally. By leveraging the ancient wisdom and scientific understanding of horsetail's properties, we can unlock a pathway to achieving radiant, healthy skin that withstands the test of time.

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Winter Skincare Guide

Winter Skincare Guide

Cold weather and snow have officially arrived. And with it dry, chapped, dehydrated winter skin.

But did you know that mature skin is more susceptible to the effects of harsh weather?

This is because as we lose elastin and collagen, our skin’s ability to retain moisture diminishes. Add to that a decline in our skin's own oil production, and you've got a receipt for a reddened and cracking dermis.

Winter environments, both indoor and out, can contribute to the problem. Indoor heaters and outdoor winds wick away skin moisture and those extra hot showers we take to combat the cold can further dry skin.

You can minimize the negative impact of cold weather on skin by implementing the following tips that can help to combat the detrimental effects of winter.

Avoid extra hot baths & showers

We know how appealing a steamy shower or hot bath can be at the end of a cold winter day, but hot water can strip away natural oils and moisture from your skin.
Hot water can also irritate skin, so be sure to limit your showers or baths to 5-10 minutes. 

Get the most from your moisturizer

After showering, gently pat your skin dry (avoid rubbing), then immediately apply a high-grade hyaluronic acid. Our Illuminating Aspen Dew Essence contains a micro-molecular hyaluronic acid that delivers progressive hydration over time.

Hyaluronic acid works to pull surface moisture deep into your skin and increase the hydrating effects of subsequent products.You can use the same trick for getting the most out of your body balms and moisturizers.

Switch to an oil-based cleanser

Mature skin benefits greatly from oil-based cleansers all year round, but this applies especially to winter months. Oil cleansers help restore natural oils in the skin while removing impurities.

Plant and nut seed oils used for cleansing, such as jojoba oil and almond oil help fortify the skin barrier, firm your skin, and reduce the signs of aging.

Double down on moisture boosting ingredients

During winter, mature skin requires special care, so double down on hydration, both in an out. Look for products that contain nourishing ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, peptides, and ceramides.

Our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence pulls double duty as a skin conditioner and a serum - it’s formulated with niacinamide, phytoceramides, and hyaluronic acid to ensure powerful hydration and anti-aging effects.

Up your hydration game

Staying hydrated in winter is equally important as we tend to drink less fluids in colder months. 

Adding a nourishing collagen rich broth, like bone broth, to you daily hydration regime is an easy hack.

If you are vegetarian, there are plant-based collagen powders you can add to a vegetable broth to increase overall hydration levels.

Avoid over exfoliating

Exfoliating more than once or twice a week in cold months can cause redness and inflammation. Use gentle exfoliator, like our Snow Rose Recovery Mask to reveal fresh skin.

Be sure to apply a skin serum afterward like our Purist Delicate Skin Serum to restore balance to sensitive skin.

Say yes to sunscreen

Just because it’s chilly or overcast outside doesn’t mean sun exposure won’t have an impact on your skin. Even on cloudy days, harmful UV rays can penetrate the skin, so it’s essential to wear sunscreen SPF 50+ to prevent sunburn and skin damage. 

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Restorative Bathing Beauty Ritual

Restorative Bathing Beauty Ritual

Early sunsets and cooler temperatures are the perfect time to indulge in a little extra self-care in preparation for the activities of the holiday season. 

For centuries, the act of bathing has transcended simple cleansing, evolving into a therapeutic ritual that nourishes both body and soul. Ancient Egyptian royals infused their baths with luxurious oils like sesame and moringa, enveloping themselves in fragrant sanctuaries. In medieval Europe, the nobility sought solace in baths enriched with a blend of precious oils and aromatic herbs like chamomile and calendula. Meanwhile, the Japanese marked the winter solstice with the comforting embrace of Yuzu Yu, where the therapeutic essential oils of the Yuzu citrus infused their steaming baths.

Inspired by these age-old traditions, we're delighted to share with you one of our favorite ways to unwind. 

This bathing beauty ritual isn't just about skincare; it's an invitation to history, luxury, and a deep sense of well-being. Dive in and let every sense be pampered.

Bathing Beauty Ritual

Step 1: Draw a bath

Begin by drawing a warm bath infused with Epsom salts, calming essential oils, and the sheer luxury of argan or baobab oils. The gentle embrace of chamomile tea satchels further elevates this tranquil experience.

Draw a warm bath and add 2 cups of Epsom salts.

Add 5-10 drops of soothing essential oil like lavender, neroli, or sweet orange and 1 teaspoon of a luxury oil like argan or baobab.

For extra calming effects, let 2-3 chamomile tea satchels steep in your bathwater (the sturdier nylon pyramid types work best for this). 

Step 2: Cleanse with an oil cleanser

As the scents envelop you, indulge in a purifying oil cleanse that washes away the worries of the day. 

As you soak in the tub, cleanse your face with 1/2 teaspoon of your favorite oil cleanser for 30-60 seconds. Click here for a basic oil cleansing formula.

Place a warm damp wash cloth on your face before wiping away dirt and makeup. Use both sides of the washcloth to get all the oil off. 

Repeat if you are removing makeup.

Step 3: Apply serums 

Following your soothing soak, with skin delicately damp, apply the Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence, followed by our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum or Purist Delicate Skin serum to lock in moisture and enhance your skin's natural radiance.

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Stylist, Artist & Purist Fan, Get to Know This Woman on the Glow!

Stylist, Artist & Purist Fan, Get to Know This Woman on the Glow!

Today we are spotlighting one of our inspiring #womenontheglow. Kimberly Marney is a stylist, artist, and long-time Purist Delicate Skin Serum fan!

We've been admirers of Kimberly's paintings for a while now, appreciating her artistic eye and keen sense of color.

When we asked if she'd be up for being interviewed for our newsletter, she responded with the same unrestrained joy that is so tangible in her paintings.

Here's what she had to say...

Tell us a bit about yourself.

"I grew up in rural east central Kansas. The open spaces and nature are essential to my DNA. I always believed I could do anything and go anywhere.

I developed a love of fashion before I could walk and was always doing something creative. I spent 18 years as a personal stylist helping people express their style and beauty.

In mid-life I transitioned my artistic endeavors to embrace being an artist. I now paint abstracts inspired by nature. You will see blue heavily represented in my work because it represents hope and beauty for me."

What is your greatest source of inspiration?

"I find inspiration in many places but I have to say those women who I see making their dreams happen and starting something new later in life really inspire me." 

How do you define beauty?

"Confidence, a welcoming smile, and positivity are beautiful."

What does self-care look like to you?

"Take the time to listen to your body and mind. Hydrating, exercising, trying to get good sleep, absorbing quiet moments in nature, getting a good massage, trying to eat healthy, and taking care of my skin." 

What beauty advice would you give other women over 40?

"Make yourself a priority. It’s more than okay to take time for yourself. In fact, it’s essential. Something I wish I knew when I was younger."

Can you share with us the best compliment you’ve ever been given and who it was from?

"I don’t know if it's my best, but last week a woman was completely shocked we were the same age. She thought I was at least 17 years younger! Who would have guessed that being mistaken for 40 would have me flying high?! Skin care is key!"

What’s one skincare tip you wish all women knew about?

"Consistency. Cleanse, moisturize, repeat morning and night."

What’s your daily skincare routine?

"I always start and end the day with clean skin and moisturize with Aspen Dew and The Purist Delicate Skin Serum. I love using my Gua Sha tool after applying my serum."

What is the best beauty secret you have ever received? 

"My mother was always reminding me to have good posture. Good posture projects confidence!"

To keep up with Kimberly and see the paintings she's currently working on check out her Instagram feed @brandedbystyle.


Want to be featured in our #womenontheglow community?


Send us an email at info@tellurideglow.com and let us know. We love hearing from you and sharing your stories! Continue reading

Inflammaging - The Link Between Skin Health & Overall Well-being

Inflammaging - The Link Between Skin Health & Overall Well-being

It’s true, we all want a healthy glowing complexion. But maintaining skin health may be much more important to our overall well-being than we previously thought.

In a recent article published by the BBC entitled The Curious Ways Skin Shapes Your Health, researchers discuss the ways in which our skin health is actually a predictor of our internal health. This is a novel perspective since most of us have been taught that skin merely reflects our health and lifestyle. But the latest research is showing that skin actively contributes to our physical well-being. Surprisingly, the condition of our skin may dictate how we age rather than merely reflecting it.

How? Let’s start with a little historical perspective. Back in 1958, The Baltimore Longitudinal Study revolutionized our understanding of aging. Tracking thousands of participants over several decades, findings revealed a significant connection between youthful appearance and inner health. Notably, those who looked older than their age were more likely to face health complications and even premature death.

To date, researchers have used two main ways to measure age: chronological (based on birth date) and biological (reflecting our physical aging). Over time, environmental factors, primarily UV radiation, can significantly damage skin, accounting for over 80% of visible skin changes.

What’s more is that as we age, our body’s inflammatory response, meant to protect us, can overact, leading to what some researchers call “inflammaging” - a chronic type of inflammation associated with the aging process. Damaged skin adds to this inflammatory cycle by releasing a cascade of chemicals that further instigate inflammation, potentially affecting the health of other organs.

The BBC article explains how “The chemicals released by diseased and dysfunctional skin soon enter the bloodstream, where they wash around, damaging other tissues. Amid the ensuing systemic inflammation, chemicals from the skin can reach and harm organs that seem entirely unrelated, including your heart and brain. The result is accelerated aging, and a higher risk of developing the majority of – or possibly even all – related disorders. So far, aged or diseased skin has been linked to the onset of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and cognitive impairment, as well as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.”

Dry skin can cause Inflammaging and impaired skin barrier health

Inflammaging from UV exposure

Since UV radiation is the number one cause of inflammaging, the importance of sun protection can not be overstated. UVA rays in particular, penetrate deep below the surface of our skin, disrupting collagen synthesis and stimulating melanin production. The result is photoaged skin, evident through irregular pigmentation and wrinkles, irrespective of skin tone.

Protecting our skin with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and seeking shade at peak UV hours is imperative to maintaining our skin health.

But sun protection isn’t the only way to maintain healthy skin, keeping skin moisturized is a close second.

Inflammaging from dry skin

As we get older, our skin’s natural moisturizing factors, lipids, filaggrin, glycol, and sebum start to decline. Unfortunately, dry skin is significantly less effective at providing a barrier against infection, environmental toxins and allergens. But moisturizing can be a game-changer. Studies show that consistent moisturization not only helps to reduce skin inflammation by improving skin barrier health but might also stave off cognitive decline!

Whole-plant skin nutritives like phytoceramides, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants can be beneficial to supporting optimal skin barrier function and preventing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). 

A nutrient-rich serum like our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum can go a long way to replenish skin health by providing it with the nutrients it needs to function beautifully and ward off environmental aggressors.

Our skin is so much more than just a protective barrier between ourselves and the environment. It's a vast and active organ that plays a pivotal role in our overall health.

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Restorative Horsetail, the Fern For Firm Skin

Restorative Horsetail, the Fern For Firm Skin

If your skin is looking slack and feeling like it's missing its usual bounce, it may be time to help boost collagen production.

Praised for its restorative benefits, horsetail is a ‘living fossil’ that has graced our planet with its fern-like fronds for hundreds of millions of years.

A perennial native to the Northern Hemisphere and European countries, horsetail (Equisetum arvense) also goes by the names shave grass, scouring rush, and bottlebrush.

It was used extensively by ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties being first recorded in medical texts by the Greek physician Claudius Galenus during the 17th century.

Containing some of the highest levels of bioavailable silicon in the form of silica and silica acids in the plant world, horsetail helps encourage collagen synthesis boosting skin resiliency and turgor. (Not to be confused with silicone, which is a man-made chemical commonly used in industrial applications.)

This restorative botanical is found in our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence and helps promote collagen synthesis for a smooth, firm complexion.

Read on to learn how your skin can benefit from this delicate fern…

Restorative Benefits of Horsetail

Firm skin

Containing the highest levels of bioavailable silicon in the form of silica and silica acids in the plant world, this trace mineral is vital for taut skin, strong bones, and lustrous hair and nails. Silica is a vital building block of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It is important for optimal collagen synthesis and activation of hydroxylating enzymes, which help to improve skin strength and elasticity.

Revitalizing

Packed with a flavonoid called isoquercitrin, horsetail extract is touted to speed up cellular regeneration. It may also help support the skin’s wound-healing processes and fight the effects of premature photo-aging.

Calming

Horsetail may help to interrupt the body’s inflammatory response. This action may decrease potential damage to skin structures, premature skin aging, and help to calm reddened skin.

Antioxidant-rich

Elevated free radicals from stress, environmental pollutants, UV rays, and radiation from smartphones and laptops may negatively impact skin health. These unstable molecules can lead to inflammation and lipid peroxidation, which may damage cellular DNA and vital skin proteins.

Loaded with natural flavonoids and other antioxidants, horsetail helps curb effects from free radicals and accelerated skin aging.

Nourishing

Horsetail is a natural source of phytonutrients and minerals like calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C. This makes it a potent nutritive tonic when incorporated into a daily skincare regimen.

Moisturizing

By helping to improve skin texture and providing a rich source of phytonutrients, horsetail improves skin barrier health and moisture retention.

Horsetail has many skin benefits which is why we've included it in our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence. Containing both silica and silica acids in a readily absorbable format, horsetail is an obvious choice for boosting collagen and improving skin health.

Sources:

Use of silicon for skin and hair care: an approach of chemical forms available and efficacy* Lidiane Advincula de Araújo,1 Flavia Addor,2 and Patrícia Maria Berardo Gonçalves Maia Campos1

Isolated isoquercitrin from Green ball apple peel inhibits photoaging in CCD-986Sk fibroblasts cells via modulation of the MMPs signalingEun-Ho Lee 1, Hye-Jin Park 1, Han-Hyuk Kim 2, Hee-Young Jung 3, In-Kyu Kang 4, Young-Je Cho 1

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Skin Barrier Health: Maintaining Vibrant Skin into Your 50's & Beyond

Skin Barrier Health: Maintaining Vibrant Skin into Your 50's & Beyond

As we age, our skin's texture and ability to retain moisture start to change. This is because the amount of natural oils your skin produces declines dramatically after the age of 40. Some might go so far as to say that their oil glands have gone on strike!

But it’s not just that our skin produces less natural oils. The structure of our skin also changes, becoming thinner and less dense, a change that can further contribute to trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL) and impaired barrier function.

Both thinner and drier skin can greatly diminish optimal skin barrier function. One of the best things you can do for mature skin is to make sure your skin barrier remains intact and healthy by providing it with the vitamins, nutrients, and moisture that it needs.

Specifically, phytoceramides, precious oils and hyaluronic acid, which act synergistically toghether to mimic the composition of the skin’s natural barrier. Both our serums and our Aspen Dew Essence are designed to provide these key actives and help to promote optimal skin barrier health so you can keep your glow going.

For more on how to naturally boost your skin health and improve barrier function, check out our tips below...

How you can boost skin barrier health

Use a serum daily 

Invest in a clean, results-driven serum, like The Alpine Phytonutrient Serum or Purist Delicate Skin Serum, that fortifies and nourishes depleted skin with vitamin renewal while shielding against oxidative damage that leads to premature aging.

Use a gentle cleanser twice a day

Oil cleansers are preferred as they clean without stripping. Avoid anything that leaves your skin feeling “squeaky clean” as this is a sure sign your skin is being stripped of its natural oils and moisture.

Get your Omega 3s

Take a high-quality fish oil or flaxseed Omega 3 supplement, to improve the fatty acid composition of your skin and balance its inflammatory response. Our favorite is Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega.

Avoid hot water

Use warm (not hot!) water on your face so you are not stripping your skin of its natural oils and limit over-bathing.

Use SPF

Upgrade your sunscreen game, use a non-nano SPF sunscreen to protect against age spots and skin cancer. Makeup with SPF does not provide the same level of protection. While using SPF may feel over-stated, it remains one of the single most powerful ways to help prevent premature photo-aging. For more on this topic, check out our post on the myriad ways UV rays damage skin.

However you choose to support your skin barrier health, remember, caring for your skin is always an act of self-care. 

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How to Gua Sha

How to Gua Sha

Not a fan of needles? Let’s talk about one of our favorite Botox alternatives, the gua sha facial massage.

Gua sha is an ancient beauty ritual used by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners to promote healthy skin. It’s been called the ‘botox of the Far East’ due to its firming and smoothing benefits. 

Gua means to press and sha refers to the pink color seen on your skin after use.

The 3 main benefits of facial gua sha are: increased circulation, lymph drainage (depuffing), and facial contouring.

When gua sha is enhanced with a nourishing oil serum like our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum, it increases both product absorption and efficacy.

Combined, these deliver:

  • Reduced puffiness: helps lymphatic fluid to drain and move from stagnant areas
  • Contour and sculpt features: gua sha lifts features by helping to realign drooping skin with underlying facial muscles
  • Soften fine lines: relaxes overactive muscles that cause wrinkles
  • Diminish the look of scars: promotes cell renewal by increasing circulation and cellular health
  • A brighter complexion: stimulating blood flow and improve circulation 

We love the benefits of this technique so much that we've added a new limited edition gua sha stone made from a gorgeous white snow crystal to our shop!

To learn how to gua sha your face, read on below for a step-by-step instructional.

How to Gua Sha 

 

how to gua sha

1. Cleanse

Wash your gua sha tool and hands with warm soapy water. Cleanse your skin as normal.

2. Apply Serum

This will help the movement over your skin and prevent irritation. The product will be absorbed into your skin as you’re massaging your face.

3. Gua sha 

Hold the curved side of your gua sha at a 45-degree angle to your skin. All movements should go out from the midline of your face to the hairline, following lymphatic flow to help depuff and improve circulation.

  • Neck - Start along your neck and glide upward toward your jawline to improve definition and de-puff.
  • Jawline - From the center of the chin glide along the jawline to the ear to increase definition and tighten skin.
  • Cheeks - Follow the contours of your cheek using medium pressure up to your hairline. Repeat on both sides.
  • Under eyes - Start at the inner corner of the under-eye area and glide the tool along the underside of the eye, and upwards toward the hairline using gentle pressure in a J-shaped motion.
  • Brow - Work on your forehead in three sections and glide the stone from your eyebrows to the top of your forehead.
4. Finish

Massage the remaining serum into your skin. Then complete your regular skincare routine.

You will notice the effects from gua sha long afterward, with an increase in circulation giving your skin a healthy glow and diminished puffiness under the eyes and jawline.

With regular practice, gua sha facial massage is a powerful tool to improve overall skin health, tone, and radiance.

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Mullein | A Powerful Botanical for Skin Health

Mullein | A Powerful Botanical for Skin Health

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a herbaceous plant with a long history of medicinal use. A tenacious biennial indigenous to Europe, Asia and Africa, mullein is named after its soft wooly leaves (Mollis - means soft in Latin).

Praised for its restorative properties, folk medicine practitioners in India and Spain traditionally used mullein to treat aches, pains, migraines, digestive and respiratory illnesses. Brewing its bright yellow blooms into a soothing, sedative tea, mullein was used as an antiviral, analgesic, and nervine tonic. Mullein poltices were also used in indigenous medicine to help calm skin lesions and insect bites to help promote a swifter recovery. 

Rich in phytonutrients like flavonoids and Vitamin C, Mulleins’s powerful phytonutrients provide the skin and body with multiple health benefits. 

Read on to learn more about this nutrient-rich herb and why it's constituents make it a key player in skin recovery of all kinds.

Hesperidin

The bioflavonoid hesperidin acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. It may suppress melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase for a brighter, more radiant complexion. In addition, it acts as a potent free radical scavenger, protecting the skin from free radical damage and premature aging.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid that offers protection from environmental agressors like pollution and pollen. It, therefore, acts as a skin soother due to its ability to combat inflammation and erythema. In addition, quercetin helps restores the skin barrier function, reducing trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and increasing overall skin hydration.

Luteolin

Commonly found in many vegetables and fruits, like leafy greens and bell peppers, luteolin has many health-giving benefits. In fact, some studies have shown that luteolin may even have properties that help to prevent damage to skin structures and cellular DNA. 

Vitamin C 

A well known free radical scavenger, vitamin C helps combat oxidative stress, a key culprit in collagen and elastin degradation. It’s is also one of the main vitamins that is essential for collagen synthesis and therefore vital for firm, bouncy skin.  

Vitamin C may also help defend against sun-induced matrix metalloproteinases or MMPs, a class of enzymes responsible for triggering inflammation that can lead to accelerated aging.

By helping to modulate the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, vitamin C can help calm angry skin  Last but not least, some studies have shown that vitamin C also has photoprotective qualities, helping to brighten dull skin and lighten sun spots.

What do you think of this powerful herb? We believe it has the potential to elevate skincare to the next level. So much so, we've included it in our Snow Rose Recovery Mask!

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Arnica Montana Flower Extract Skin Benefits

Arnica Montana Flower Extract Skin Benefits

Arnica Montana is a potent herb and popular botanical used in both skincare, herbal medicines, and homeopathic formulations.

Arnica thrives in alpine meadows and creates an impressive sea of golden blooms in late spring and early summer. In Telluride's Imogene basin you can find arnica growing in the wild. 

Boasting over 150 active compounds, arnica contains a myriad of phytonutrients including sesquiterpene lactones which offer antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

In North American, indigenous peoples have used it for centuries as an analgesic, to treat bruising and muscle soreness.

The first recorded use by Europeans of this herbaceous plant dates back to the 16th-century when arnica was brewed into a medicinal tea in Germany.

You can find this skin nutrient powerhouse in our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum.

Read on to learn how this alpine flower can revitalize your complexion....

Skin Benefits of Arnica Montana

Recovery

Deeply restorative, arnica extract may help reduce collagen and elastin destruction caused by UVB exposure and protect the skin from damaging oxidative stress. 

Helenalin, a compound found in arnica, may inhibit inflammation in the skin.

Revitalizing

Arnica may stimulate matrix formation, especially fibronectin, in the skin. Fibronectin helps maintain and regulate healthy cellular activity in the skin, it is essential for healing and repair. 

Rejuvenating

Arnica shows potent elemental defense through free radical scavenging in the form of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These powerful antioxidants may help shield the skin from harmful oxidative damage and help to prevent accelerated skin aging.  

Brightening

Arnica visibly brightens skin and reduces discoloration for a more luminous complexion. It may reduce the appearance of sun spots by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase which is responsible for melanin formation.

Calming

Wonderful for treating a puffy swollen complexion, arnica also helps reduces the appearance of redness, swelling, and irritation.

With its many skin-nurturing properties, arnica is the perfect way to amplify your skincare.

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