The plant kingdom, a beauty-boosting natural resource
The skincare world is rapidly heading down a simpler, back to basics route. Plant-based cosmetics are seeing a resurgence, as more of us gravitate towards natural skincare ingredients.
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An unlimited supply
Researchers reckon that we've only touched the tip of the plant world iceberg. According to current data, only 10% of 300,000 known species has been studied. Which means there are 250,000 left to go - a monumental task in a leafy world of infinite resources. Plants actually have a lot in common with humans. They breathe, grow, adapt, eat, reproduce and change according to the environment in which they grow. Scientists and researchers are continually being amazed by what they can teach us.
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Natural superpowers
Plants have an incredible ability to adapt. They're equipped with receptors and captors that gauge sunlight, as well as ground and air humidity levels. Some turn their heads to the sun, others sense the arrival of harmful conditions. They boast a sophisticated type of intelligence that still leaves scientists a bit baffled. Next generation labs are cropping up so that scientists can further research plants, as well as learn how to grow them in order to help us in the future. Plant biodiversity and the different climates in which they flourish are incredibly far and wide. As well as learning about their secrets, scientists are also trying to cultivate species in labs under varying conditions.
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Harmony with our skin
Vitamins, antioxidants, moisturising factors, calming or regenerative properties... Numerous plant-based active ingredients are being selected by cosmetologists for their skin-loving actions. And if you look at history, you'll find that plants feature heavily in traditional recipes and rituals. In other words, plants and skin have a harmonious relationship. A relationship that researchers are optimising in order to improve skincare products. Each year, dozens of active ingredients are extracted, analysed, tested and patented to give us high-performing, well-targeted treatments. Note: plant research isn't just about reaping the benefits - it's also a question of respecting nature, as well as the communities that harvest both large and small-scale crops. Whilst production soars, so must eco-friendly techniques that take into account not only plants, but also local populations and consumers.
