Phyto – of a plant; relating to plants.
‘Plant-based’ is a term that we are hearing more and more. Deliciously Ella has become a household name for recipes that make the most of what mother nature has to offer. M&S now have a growing ‘plant kitchen’ range that could fool the meatiest of meat eaters! But plants are not just for the kitchen or the garden. The masters in skincare, dermalogica, are harnessing yet more power from plants to give us incredible results on our skin.
Plants possess natural phytoactives that have the ability to impact the structure and health of our skin. From plant phytolipids and exfoliants, to collagen stimulators and anti-inflammatory agents, phytoactives are used to treat many skin conditions.
Plant oils, or phyto oils, are particularly adept at treating numerous skin conditions, from dryness and premature signs of skin aging to uneven skin tone, dehydration and skin sensitivity. These oils possess remarkable barrier-replenishing and hydrating properties, and provide superior antioxidant protection, which is why one of our skin hero’s is Phyto replenish oil. A lightweight oil that prevents fine lines and provides an all day dewy glow.
Imagine our excitement when we heard, some months ago, that we are to be one of the first in our industry to receive the brand spanking new Phyto-Nature Firming Serum from dermalogica?! (And go to a super cool launch event in London!) The NEW dual-phase serum combines highly-active botanicals with biomimetic technology to reawaken and preserve the nature of younger looking skin by reducing the appearance of skin aging.
What does biomimetic mean?! (Took the words right out of our mouths!!)
Biomimetic peptides are synthetic peptides that are lab-crafted to mimic naturally-occurring peptides. (“Bio” means “life” and “mimetic” means “imitating.”) In skin care, biomimetic peptides can be found in targeted treatments like facial serums to help reduce the appearance of skin aging.
What do peptides do for skin?
Peptides are chemical messengers that tell our cells what to do. All peptides are made up of amino acids, which are used by skin to build proteins such as collagen, elastin and keratin. These substances are what hold skin together and keep it firm. Peptides can also control factors that contribute to skin tone, sensitivity, hormonal activity, and more.
The decline!..
As early as our 20s(!), unhealthy lifestyle habits, environmental damage and constant UV exposure begin compromising skin’s structural integrity. Our cell defences start to weaken due to free radicals, and our natural ability to fight off skin damage declines. Cell renewal and turnover rates also naturally start to slow, diminishing skin radiance.
In our 30s, collagen (which keeps skin firm) and elastin (which keeps skin bouncing back) degrade, resulting in visible wrinkles. Cell renewal and turnover continue to decline, leading to a duller complexion and uneven skin tone. Some cells can even become inactive, which can lead to damaging inflammatory toxins that accelerate the appearance of skin aging. (Anyone feeling a bit sad yet?! – keep reading its not all bad news!)
By our 40s, skin appears thinner and its naturally-protective barrier lipids are not as effective. Dehydration can be an issue. Depending on hormonal activity, unusual activity may appear in skin from uneven skin tone to adult acne. More prominent signs of skin aging can also appear, such as dark spots and significant dullness.
After our 50s, our barrier lipid layer lessens, leading to less efficient moisture retention and more potential for sensitivity and dehydration. Stress and inflammation both inside and outside of the body delays skin recovery – leading to lasting marks and longer healing times. By now, skin can show prominent wrinkles, fine lines and discoloration.
What can we do?
Of course we know that things like more sleep, daily sunscreen, exfoliating and chemical peels can all help defy the aging process but we want more!!
Potent plant extracts have been used for centuries to promote youth. Thanks to nature, (and science) ingredients like Amazonian Camu Camu (aka “the youth berry”), Moroccan Rockrose Extract and Madagascar Green Coffee Bean are being used, which help revitalize skin and decrease the appearance of premature skin aging. There is an antioxidant peptide found naturally in the body called Glutathione and thankfully you can find a skin-firming, biomimetic form of this peptide – bound with sapphire, no less – in our new wonder product, Phyto-Nature Firming Serum.
Independent clinical trials have shown that with just 1 application of Phyto-Nature Firming Serum skin’s luminosity doubles and the appearance of fine lines are immediately improved. After 4 weeks visible wrinkles are reduced.
With key benefits of flash-firming, lifting and revitalising, trials have shown that this product gives your skin the gift of 5 years back!!
Pop in and try a pump before we use it all ourselves and be sure to purchase before 20th September 2019 to receive your exclusive gift and a chance to win our Pro Power Peel 30 treatment!!
Helen & Amy