Adaptogens in Skincare: Treat acne, dryness, and more inflammation

If you’ve done any skincare shopping recently, then the word Adaptogen has probably caught your eye. First herbal supplements and now moisturizers, facial sprays, toners, serums…they all include this mysterious category of ingredient. But, did you know it could be the answer to your stressed out skin? That’s right: adaptogens help your body fight all kinds of stress-even the kind that shows on your skin! I know you have questions, so let’s dive into some info regarding adaptogens in skincare.

First, a little bit of history…

Adaptogens themselves are not a new discovery, but the term came quite a bit later. These plants and herbs have been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, but have become popular in western health and skincare due to their numerous benefits! Ingesting them through supplements or foods have been shown to affect the body through sleep, stabilize the neuroendocrine system, reduce inflammation, boost the immune system and more. Similarly, utilizing adaptogens in our skincare products help marry how internal stressors affect our skin health, and fight the root cause.

Popular Adaptogens in Skincare

First, adaptogens for acne

Ashwagandha

Being one of the most popular adaptogens definitely comes with a long list of benefits! This powerful herb works to calm stressors that lead to inflammation- being the root cause of various skin conditions. Skincare brands gladly add this gem into your products to bring anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anti-bacterial effects!

Neem

Applying strong anti-bacterial skincare is crucial for treating pimples. Using neem oil in skincare has been shown to be an effective treatment for acne when used over time! It is quite potent and is best used when diluted with other skin clearing extracts and hydrating oils. It can also improve acne scars and discoloration!

Next, adaptogens for anti-aging

Maca

We are all looking for ways to protect us against aging, right? We wear our daily sunscreen but we also need to utilize powerful antioxidants to protect further from free radical damage. A study done in 2011 showed the ability for maca to protect the skin from UVB rays! It is a powerful adaptogen seen in skincare to help strengthen the skin and improve collagen (source).

Rhodiola Rosea

Known as a “well-documented medicinal plant used historically to treat fatigue, stress, depression, fertility and even gastrointestinal disorders” (source), this particular adaptogen is amazing at shielding from environmental stressors. Pollution, oxidative stress, and climate all can negatively affect our skin. This antioxidant also increases collagen production for a brighter, more youthful complexion!

Last, adaptogens for sensitive/dry skin

Reishi Mushroom

Step aside hyaluronic acid, it’s this fungus’ time to shine. This adpatogen contains powerful beta-glucans that attract water to the skin (source). It also helps your body synthesize ceramides, a vital component to the skin’s moisture barrier. It is typically seen along side other skin soothers- which is a formula perfect for combatting dry skin.

Marshmallow Root

This super herb can totally make your skin look superb! See what I did there? But really, marshmallow root helps to moisturize and soothe even the most sensitive skin types. This ingredient should definitely make its way into your routine if you suffer from any skin inflammation! It is so popular actually, you can find it in hundreds of skincare products- maybe by one of its other names such as Althaea officinalis.

Overview of Adaptogens in Skincare

We can definitely dive into adaptogens in skincare for much longer, but let’s just keep it simple because I know you are already convinced. Adaptogens are well sought-out ingredients due to their ability to adapt to just what the body needs to better respond to stress. Our body shows signs of stress through different skin conditions! Using adaptogens can be the perfect holistic medicine your skin needs to heal.

So…should you seek them out? Yes! I actually do recommend searching for them especially if you have sensitive, irritated, dry or inflamed skin. Learn more about treating dry skin.

Do you have to spend a lot for them? Kind of. I included different recommendations at varying price points above, but for the most part these skincare products do cost a bit more. Search for organic skincare brands and clean beauty labels to find them.

We need more research on the topic to determine concrete outcomes and benefits from adaptogens, but the research is very promising showing little to no side effects when applied topically.

More Sources:

Liao et al. A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. 2018. A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6240259/

Panossian and Wikman. Effects of Adaptogens on the Central Nervous System and the Molecular Mechanisms Associated with Their Stress—Protective Activity. 2010. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3991026/

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