Adaptogens are plant compounds that act as metabolic regulators, increasing the skin’s ability to adapt and avoid damage from external and internal aggressors.
Adaptogens (which include well-known ingredients such as aloe vera and rosemary) help reduce inflammation, encourage faster wound recovery and protect the skin from a range of other aggressors, external and internal alike. Adaptogens are often the secret force behind anti-aging skincare. Most importantly, adaptogenic ingredients delay cell aging by strengthening the cells’ natural defense against biological stress. This is achieved by improving cellular energy production, protecting the cells’ DNA and mitochondria, and increasing the cells’ ability to create proteins and maintain healthy function.
Tulura is a small skincare brand that makes two botanical face-oil formulations — one for the warm and one for the cold season. Both are made with an adaptogen, the extract of the Schisandra chinensis fruit, alongside soothing hemp, marula and tamanu oils, plus essential oils of rose, neroli, mandarin and healing helichrysum.
Aloe vera, one of the best-known adaptogens, also helps calm sensitive facial skin even when you don’t have a sunburn — this adaptogen is loaded with vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B3 and B6, and is one of the rare plants that contain B12. It is also full of minerals such as copper, zinc and potassium, which are powerful clarifying agents that help reduce fine lines and wrinkles — the secret ingredients behind the most potent anti-aging skincare. Aloe vera is formulated into the Själ Cela Intuitif cellular-renewal cream.
Panax, or Asian/red ginseng, is a medicinal plant originating from China, Korea and Siberia. Believed to be the “true ginseng”, it contains many nutrients, including ginsenosides, beta-glucans and oligosaccharides. The very name suggests an adaptogen’s power, as “panax” comes from the Greek word “panacea”, meaning “all-healing”. Ancient cultures used it, and to this day panax ginseng is believed to lend vitality and mental energy and to calm the body’s systems. It actively supports collagen production, and it is part of the Elemis Rehydrating Ginseng Toner.
Mushrooms are the new hit in cosmetics. Developed specifically to fight excessive sensitivity, the REN Evercalm Ultra Comforting Rescue Mask will calm and hydrate the skin, helping to instantly relieve the key signs of sensitive skin. With white mushroom extract, arnica and beta-glucan it strengthens the protective moisture barrier for recovery and increases the skin’s ability to cope with stress. Mushroom extract reduces redness, irritation, itching and inflammation, leaving the skin supple and smooth.