How superfood-packed formulas are shaping the skincare industry
It was only a matter of time before the ingredients so popular in health foods fed into skincare formulations, as more consumers pick up on the idea that the health-enhancing powers of these superfoods can work on the outside as well as in.
A report published at the end of 2015 called New Natural from Innovation Group and J.Walter Thompson intelligence suggests an increase in consumer anxiety about potential negative side effects of chemical ingredients is a key driver behind the trend. Meanwhile, a Canadean report released in April highlights the impact wellness and health food trends will have on the beauty market this year, inspired by the juicing craze. The analyst’s research found 71% of consumers believe “superfruits” like blueberries are effective in skincare formulations, while Mintel found 78% of US beauty product users want fruit-based ingredients.
The professional brands have been quick to bite, offering up a smorgasbord of superfood-packed formulas:
Elemis Superfood Facial Oil
SUPERFOODS: broccoli, flax, daikon radish
Launching in Autumn this year, this silky oil harnesses the skin-boosting properties of concentrated superfoods along with active oils from poppy seed, rosehip and meadowfoam. Blended to infuse skin with nutrients, antioxidants and minerals, the oil aims to increase nourishment, improve texture and maintain skin health.
Ella Baché Crème Tomate
SUPERFOOD: tomato
Harnessing the exfoliating power of AHAs found in the tomato, Crème Tomate uses naturally occurring vitamin A from tomato extract to enhance radiance, while vitamin B has a cell-renewal effect and vitamin C provides antioxidant qualities. The moisturiser is also pH balancing and helps calm reactive skin.
Beautylab Black Diamond Cellular Repair Night Cream
SUPERFOOD: goji berry
This night cream incorporates goji berry, traditionally used in Chinese medicine for its claimed toxin-removing abilities. The vitamin-rich formula also features anti-ageing peptides to help boost elasticity and improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It claims to leave skin energised and illuminated.
Repêchage Fusion Express Bar and Spa Masks
SUPERFOODS: matcha, acai berry, blueberry, beetroot, pumpkin
These customisable salon-only masks are billed as a restorative facial treatment that infuses the skin with nutritive, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. An algae-based mask is blended with an Organic Flavour Active packet (options include matcha, chocolate, vanilla/pumpkin and mixed berry).
Caci Eye Revive Serum
SUPERFOOD: seaweed, soybean
This cooling, tightening serum is infused with detoxifying chrondus crispus red algae extract to help tone sagging muscles around the eye area, helping to reduce puffiness and dark circles. It can also be used as part of a salon treatment to target fine lines and wrinkles and lift hooded eyes, in conjunction with microcurrent eye rollers.