Artichokes, the new hype in skincare
Artichoke extract is a fairly new natural ingredient in the skincare realm but has powerful skin healing properties that can help fight back skin damage, particularly UV damage. And this can be backed up as the first mentions of artichokes date way back to 40 - 70 AD in a book on medicinal uses of plants. Artichokes are a type of plant called adaptogens, they help the body fend off biological, physical and chemical stresses, making it prevalent in products that aim to restore the skin’s barrier.
Fun fact, the scientific name of artichokes is Cynara Cardunculus and the main compounds found are
- Cynarin = Enhances the production of bile
- Cynaropicrin = Reduces UV damage and further reinforces the skin barrier
- Cynaroside = Has anti-inflammatory properties
- Sterols = Reduce the amount of cholesterol absorbed from the intestine into the bloodstream.
- Malic acid = An organic alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that stimulate exfoliation
Benefits
Fight off free radicals
- Artichokes are rich in antioxidants, including ferulic acids, caffeic acids and silymarin, which all work to combat free radicals.
- Also repair and heal the damages caused by UV rays as artichokes contain a bioactive chemical called cynopicrin. UV rays can harm the skin’s barrier, which is why it is crucial to treat UV damages on the skin.
- Cynopicrin also contains anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve inflammation and irritation caused by external and internal factors, like sunburns and breakouts.
Anti-ageing
- Equipped with all its antioxidants, artichoke extract can slow down the onset of premature ageing and help reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and acne. It wards off sagging skin by strengthening your skin from the inside out.
- High levels of Vitamin C is present in artichokes which can stimulate collagen synthesis and boost cell turnover rate, effectively tightening and brightening your skin. With more collagen present in the skin, the skin has fewer chances of being dehydrated through moisture loss.
- Collagen can also make your skin appear plumper and fuller.
- Artichokes have high levels of moisture retention that results in stronger cell-wall density and can minimise enlarged pores.
- Hyaluronan, a binding agent similar to the fluid surrounding our joints, and another name for hyaluronic acid (HA) is also found in artichokes. It enhances collagen production and does a great job at retaining moisture in the skin.
What to note?
Although there aren't any known side effects of artichokes, you should still conduct a patch test prior, especially those with sensitive skin and chronic skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis, rosacea etc).
Products we recommend
AXIS-Y Artichoke Intensive Skin Barrier Ampoule
Artichoke Intensive Skin Barrier Ampoule is infused with extracts derived from artichoke, centella and tea tree, this skin-reviving ampoule replenishes moisture while soothing irritation. It also helps to revitalize tired skin thanks to a formula rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. Boasts a lightweight texture that is quickly absorbed into skin without any sticky after feel.
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