When added to cosmetic formulations, Sodium Hyaluronate helps toincrease the final product’s stability and to reduce the probability ofoxidization. Cleansers and moisturizers that are enriched with thishydrating agent will not leave the skin with an oily residue. Whenapplied to the skin, Sodium Hyaluronate is reputed to…

• Easily and deeply penetrate the skin to help it retain moisture forincreased firmness and suppleness, resulting in a revitalized appearance

• Remove loose flakes from dry skin

• Relieve itching due to dehydrated and irritated skin

• Smoothe the appearance of wrinkles and generally improve the texture of skin

• Enhance the absorption and benefits of other nourishing ingredients in a formulation

• Be gentle enough for use on most skin types, including acne-prone types

• Replace the skin’s natural Hyaluronic Acid content, which diminisheswith age, exposure to UV radiation, and various other environmentalfactors that lead to gradual moisture loss

• Promote the look of replenished facial volume by causing the skin toappear swollen/plumper, which helps reduce the look of fine lines.

So is grape seed extract just a fad? If the scientific reportspublished so far are anything to go by, then nothing could be furtherfrom the truth. The exceptionally high level of antioxidant protectionoffered by grape seed extract confers all manner of benefits to bothyour health and beauty regime, from protecting against skin ageing andtumour growth, to improving hydration and elasticity.

Grape seed extract, it turns out, might just be the perfect addition to your daily routine.

Grape seed extract is one of the more unusual beauty treatments tohit the mainstream in recent years. Many other ingredients in skincreams and anti-ageing remedies seem to make logical sense; nobody issurprised, for example, that the thick gel of the aloe vera plant cankeep your skin hydrated. But what do the contents of grape seeds have tooffer the beauty-conscious individual?

Just as importantly, is there any science behind the use of grapeseeds, or is it simply the next “fad” nutrient that we'll all haveforgotten about by next year? Let's take a look and find out...

Neutralises Harmful Free Radicals

We need to start with a little science. As you may remember from yourschool chemistry classes, molecules consist of a central nucleus, withelectrons spinning around them. Think of them rather like a solar systemin miniature, with planets spinning around the sun. So long as thesemolecules have the right number of electrons spinning around them,they're perfectly stable and safe.

The problem with free radicals is that they aren't properly balanced,because they're missing an electron. To try and counteract this, freeradicals attempt to “steal” electrons from other molecules. Ifsuccessful, the donor molecule then itself becomes unstable, andattempts to steal electrons from others, and so on through what expertscall a “cascade”. The end result is that even a single free radical canimpact a huge number of otherwise healthy molecules - including thosethat make up the cells of your body.

This process is considered “of primary importance in driving theageing process”, as more and more cells become damaged thanks to theaction of free radicals.

Many plants contain antioxidants, which can counteract the effects offree radicals. They do this by donating their own electrons to unstablemolecules, essentially neutralising the risk that they pose. Whilethere are many, many different plant-derived antioxidants known toscientists (which is one reason why you should eat lots of fruit andvegetables) grape seed extract is special because it contains uniquecompounds known as “proanthocyanidins”.

Some fascinating studies have been carried out in recent years on theantioxidant properties of proanthocyanidins. Scientists measuring theprotection afforded by grape seed extract concluded that it “providessignificantly greater protection... than vitamins C, E and β-carotene”.This is particularly noteworthy as these other ingredients have beenstaples of skin creams for decades, yet may not be anywhere near aseffective as this new kid on the block.

In brief, therefore, grape seed extract certainly isn't a fad, andhas proven health benefits in protecting your body against signs ofageing, which can include keeping your skin in great condition.

Protects Against Sunburn

A peptide is a chain of two or more amino acids joined together that build protein. Bio-peptide isa term for biologically active compounds that are chemically alteredprotein fragments. Peptides can be of a natural substance as well aschemically engineered.

The benefits of bio-peptides in skin care products are important:

• Peptides stimulate cell activity by interactingwith molecules that can signal fibroblasts to produce more collagen,thereby playing a role in encouraging cell renewal, cell turnover, anddiminishing wrinkles and improving the skin integrity of rosacea.
• Peptides act as a messenger between the top-most layer of skinor epidermis, and the dermis, The epidermal-dermal communication isimportant as it naturally breaks down as we age and is one of the causesof aging.
• Peptides increase the synthesis of the dermal matrix molecules that are essential to preserving the skin’s youth. These increases are substantial:
  • Up to 287% for Glycosaminoglycans
  • 117% for Collagen I
  • 327% for Collagen IV
• Amino acids help retain moisture in the skin and enhance the circulatory process..

Alpha-tocopheryl acetate (ATA) is a specific form of vitamin E that’soften found in skin care productsToo and dietary supplements. It’s alsoknown as tocopheryl acetate, tocopherol acetate, or vitamin E acetate.

Vitamin E isknown for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to protect yourbody from damaging compounds called free radicals. Normally, freeradicals form when your body converts food into energy. However, freeradicals can also come from UV light, cigarette smoke, and airpollution.

In nature, vitamin E comes in the form of tocopheryl or tocotrienol.Both tocopheryl and tocotrienol have four forms, known as alpha, beta,gamma, and delta. Alpha-tocopheryl (AT) is the most active form ofvitamin E in humans.

ATA is more stable than AT, meaning it can better withstandenvironmental stresses such as heat, air, and light. This makes it idealfor use in supplements and fortified foods because it has a longershelf life.

Panax Ginseng root extract contains high concentrations ofphytonutrients which can fight the effects of sun-induced free radicalsfrom exposure to sunlight and environmental pollution. Modern medicinehas established that the plant extract has valuable properties as askincare ingredient and has been shown to:

• Have anti-aging properties¹
• Be an effective skin moisturiser¹
• Reduce the effect of wrinkles²
• Reduce collagen degradation and cause skin firming²
• Whiten and brighten the skin and reduce sunspots
• Inhibit the effects of solar UVB radiation on the skin²

Gingeris not only a great homemade product to be used in most Asian cuisinesand recipes but it is also a great skincare ingredient for enhancingbeauty too. Ginger has a lot of anti-inflammatory properties so it isgreat in a lot of ways where it can be applied topically as well aseaten and also used as a spice in meals too.

Skin Type

Since ginger has anti-inflammatory properties so it is equally good for all skin types whether it is dry skin, normal skin, sensitive skin, or oily skin.

Benefits

• Skin Healing

The skin healing process is a very slow one and it requires a considerable amount of patience. But ginger is there to you.

Youcan use ginger a very easy way to heal broken skin as it is a greathealer and improves the blood circulation of your skin to treat cut andother issues very quickly in comparison.

• Acne

Ginger is tremendously goodfor acne due to its anti-inflammatory properties and it can be ingestedin small but regular quantities to get rid of acne completely. It evenprovides the strength for the skin to fight against developing acne.

• Cellulite

Cellulitecan be a very irritating issue when it is beyond a normal range. It cancause added skin problems and pigmentation issues besides bad skin aswell. Ginger is known to be the best cure for the cellulite problem. Itreduces the abnormal cellulite growth problem.

• Toning

Manywomen and even men today face a lot of issues for pigmentation thatleaves white spots as well as other issues that give rise to bad andunattractive as well as uneven skin tone. Here, you can use this organic gift of nature in the most efficient way to get rid of any hypopigmentation issue and give an even skin tone.

• Anti-Aging

Gingernot only protects the skin by healing it and getting rid of blemishes,acne, etc, but is also great for anti-aging purposes to reduce any finelines and wrinkles for the same.

We have always associated mustard seeds with traditional cooking.Most Indian households use it in the kitchen to dole out lip-smackingdelicacies. But, did you know that mustard seeds have many skincarebenefits, too? And that besides enhancing the taste of your food, it canalso enhance your beauty? Here’s what you need to know.

It is believed that the seeds act as natural exfoliators for theskin, so you can say goodbye to cosmetics forever. In fact, you can usethe seeds along with some aloe vera gel to make the perfect scrub forthe face. Those who are struggling with premature aging, and have onetoo many wrinkles on the face, should consider the seeds for skincare,because it is believed the vitamin C present in them can take care ofthis problem. 

Chamomile Skin Benefits - Why is this ingredient so important in skincare?

Why is Chamomile so important in skincare products and why is it added to almost all of Perfect Image's products? There is a reason why there is so much craze surrounding this botanical extract and today we go over all of its beneficial goodness! For starters, Chamomile posses many powerful skin properties such as anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, and contains essential oils and antioxidants. Additionally, is hypoallergenic and helps to reduce skin irritants by neutralizing free radicals.So where does it all start? The flower native to Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America was used by Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks to treat many conditions and illnesses such as nausea, pain, inflammations, skin diseases, and cancer. It wasn't until recent scientific studies came out and showed that it possessed all of these powerful skin benefiting properties. Most of the studies occurred in Germany using a topical ointment or cream. One impressive study demonstrated Chamomile was more than half as effective as a .25% hydrocortisone cream when applied topically. It has also shown signs in the study of being effective in reducing dermatitis. Chamomile contains a huge list of chemicals compounds, many of them known for their inflammatory properties.

Benefits:

1) Strong Anti-inflammatory, great for sensitive and acne-prone skin types who have inflammation.

2) Anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, antioxidant.

3) Excellent healing abilities to minor skin wounds because of disinfectant properties.

4) Helps fight and block out irritants by eliminating free radicals which damage your skin and accelerate the aging process.

5) Antioxidant-rich helps reduce acne inflammation, breakouts, and minor scars.

6) Natural skin lightener promotes a healthy glow of the skin as it heals and restores its natural moisture content.

7) Increase the penetration and effectiveness of other skincare topicals.

8) Soothes and heals burns, great for post-peel applications.

Chamomile is one ingredient you want in your skincare routine. Whether you have acne-prone skin, dry skin, or pigmentation areas. It has a little to help every type of skin type. Next time you consider a new skincare treatment, check to see if it has chamomile, and experience increased skin repair, skin purifying, and inflammation healing properties.

 If you have your head in the skin care game, you’ve likely heard of vitamin C serums.

Vitamin C is touted as one of the best anti-aging ingredients on the market — and the key to maintaining a smooth, even, and glowy complexion.

Although you’re probably getting vitamin C in your diet, there’s no way to guarantee that it’s going straight to your skin. Using serums and other topical products is the most direct way to reap these benefits.

Read on to learn why you should add vitamin C serum to your routine, how to introduce a new product, and more.
1. It’s safe for most skin types

Vitamin C has an excellent safety profileTrusted Source. Most people can use topical vitamin C for an extended period of time without experiencing any adverse reactions.

In rare casesTrusted Source, people who have hypersensitive skin may experience minor irritation.

    Vitamin C is also safe to use in conjunction with other skin care actives, including alpha hydroxy acids, retinols, and SPF.

2. It’s hydrating

Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, one of the main vitamin C derivatives used in skin care, has been shownTrusted Source to have a hydrating effect on skin. It decreases transepidermal water loss, allowing your skin to better retain moisture.
3. It’s brightening

Vitamin C can help fade pigmentation (more on this below!) and smooth the skin’s surface to reduce dullness. This gives skin a youthful glow.
4. It helps reduce redness and even out your skin tone

Vitamin C has also been shownTrusted Source to treat a huge variety of inflammatory skin conditions. Minimizing redness can create a more even complexion.
5. It helps fade hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation — including sun spots, age spots, and melasma — occurs when melanin is overproduced in certain areas of the skin. It can also happen in areas where acne has healed.

Vitamin C application has been shown to impede melanin productionTrusted Source. This can help fade dark spots and lead to a more even-toned complexion.

Dealing with acne? Vitamin C isn’t your only option. Learn more.
6. It reduces the appearance of under-eye circles

These serums can help smooth out fine lines by plumping and hydrating the under-eye area.

Although vitamin C is more effective at reducing overall redness, some people say that it can help alleviate discoloration associated with under-eye circles.

Want more? Here are 17 ways to get rid of under-eye bags.
7. It promotes collagen production

Vitamin C is well known for boosting collagen productionTrusted Source.

Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that depletes over time. Lower levels of collagen can lead to fine lines and wrinkles.

Check out five other ways to boost collagen production.
8. It may help prevent skin sagging

Collagen production is tied to skin elasticity and firmness. When your collagen levels begin to drop, your skin may begin to sag.

Applying a vitamin C serum may boost collagen production, resulting in an overall tighteningTrusted Source effect.
9. It protects against sun damage

Sun damage is caused by molecules called free radicals. These are atoms with a missing electron. Free radicalsTrusted Source search for other atoms from which they can “steal” an electron —and this can lead to significant damage to the skin.

Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants protect healthy skin cells by “giving” these free radicals an electron, rendering them harmless.
10. It may help soothe sunburns

In addition to minimizing redness, vitamin C accelerates cell turnoverTrusted Source. This replaces the damaged cells with healthy new ones.
11. And it generally helps boost wound healing

Given its effects on sunburn, it should be no surprise that vitamin C application can speed up overall wound healingTrusted Source. Healthy wound healing reduces your risk for inflammation, infection, and scarring.
How to use a vitamin C serum

Although topical vitamin C is generally well-tolerated, all skin products have the potential to cause side effects. You should always do a patch test to assess your risk for allergic reaction. Here’s how:

    Select a small area of skin that’s easy to conceal, like your forearm.
    Apply a small amount of product and wait 24 hours.
    If no side effects occur, you can apply to your face. Discontinue use if you develop a rash, redness, or hives.

When it’s time for a full application, follow the instructions on the product’s label.

Vitamin C serum is typically applied once or twice per day. A good rule of thumb is to cleanse, tone, apply vitamin C serum, and then moisturize.

It can be safely used in conjunction with other active ingredients, although use alongside niacinamide may render vitamin C less effective.

    Make sure to check your product’s use-by date. If the product has darkened or otherwise changed color, the vitamin C has likely oxidized. Although the product is still safe to use, it no longer carries the same benefits.

Potential side effects and risks

Although irritation is unlikely, you should always do a patch test prior to full application. This is the only way to determine how your skin will react to the serum.

If your skin is especially sensitive, avoid products with L-ascorbic acid. Products with magnesium ascorbyl phosphate may be less likely to cause irritation.