Phytocosmetics, the revolution for a healthy beauty

Phytocosmetics or plant-based cosmetics is much more than a trend, it is a natural and healthy alternative to pamper your skin and hair. If you want to know more about this revolution that aims at a healthy beauty and that dates back to time immemorial, keep reading this blog!

What is the phytocosmetics industry?

Phytocosmetics include all natural ingredients derived from medicinal plants and other plants that can be used for the cosmetic treatment of the skin.

Phytocosmetic products are cosmetic products made from vegetable substances, i.e. they are derived from active plant ingredients extracted from different parts of plants such as leaves, fruits, flowers, stems and bulbs for the care and aesthetics of skin and hair. The use of different plants is decided according to their physiology, so it is possible to find plants for almost all skin needs. In cosmetics, the botanical extract, which can consist of hundreds of chemical structures, is called the active ingredient.

Phytocosmetics encompasses the use of lotions, creams, oils, masks, poultices, plasters, shampoos and even make-up (lipsticks, etc.). It is possible to find thousands of formulas for preparing and applying all types of cosmetics, which is why phytocosmetics is an invaluable guide for professionals in the cosmetics sector, pharmacies, laboratories, artisans, formulators, manufacturers, distributors, etc.

If you are looking for a non-toxic and responsible cosmetics, which beautifies your skin and hair safely, at Mediterranean Spirit we are committed to this type of cosmetics, join us!

What is a phytoingredient?

A phytoingredient is a plant raw material that has been processed for inclusion in cosmetic formulations. Its origin can be from fresh plants, whole or in parts, oils, secretions, extracts, etc. Some phytoingredients used are the following:

• Essential oils. Most are used in cosmetics for the manufacture of fragrances.
• Hydrolats. This is the product left over after obtaining an essential oil by distillation. Part of the formulation water can be replaced by these hydrolates, which enrich the formula in sensory and cosmetic properties.
• Vegetable oils. These confer nutrition and emolliency to the skin superior to any synthetic fat.
• Vegetable butters. These are oils that have a solid texture even at room temperature.
• Botanical extracts. Liquid extracts in water and glycerine are often used instead of extracts derived from petroleum or with propylene glycol.

What are phytocosmetics?

Phytocosmetics are cosmetic products made from vegetable substances. They are of great value because they are natural in origin, reduce any side effects and provide health benefits as well as being effective in aesthetic and hygienic functions.

In most cases, plant extracts cannot be replaced by synthetic substances or are not easily imitated in the synthesis laboratory.

Benefits of phytocosmetics

Phytocosmetics will be the best ally for your skin. Plants provide properties and benefits to the wellbeing of your skin, the most important of which are:

• Nourishment
• Softness and freshness
• Protection against external agents
• Moisturising
• Rebalancing

The most important phytonutrients for your skin are vitamins (involved in skin regeneration and protection), minerals (help The mostimportant phytonutrients for your skin are vitamins (involved in skin regeneration and protection), minerals (help support enzyme function and provide protection by creating a physical barrier), antioxidants (control damage caused by free radicals, which cause cellular ageing) and fatty acids (protect and maintain the hydrolipid barrier, prevent water loss and help to make the skin brighter and smoother). Different extraction techniques (maceration, distillation, percolation and supercritical CO2 extraction) are used to extract the natural active ingredients from plants and herbs to ensure the purity of the extracts.

If you want to know more about healthy cosmetics we recommend you to read our blogs about endocrine disruptors, toxic-free cosmetics and also the importance of natural cosmetics.

Depending on the cosmetic activity, phytocosmetics can be classified as follows:

• Antiseptics. They disinfect and are mainly essential oils. E.g. Arnica, eucalyptus, thyme, rosemary, camomile, cinnamon, etc.
• Soothing. They have an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect, ideal for sensitive and irritated skin. E.g.: Chamomile, calendula, euphrasia or eyebright, aloe vera, etc.
• Toning. Stimulates metabolism. Ex: Centella asiatica, soya, ginseng, etc.
• Emollient. Exerts a softening effect, prevents moisture loss and leaves the skin smooth. E.g.: Mallow, seaweed, chamomile, etc.
• Astringent. Tightens pores, leaving the skin even and smooth, has a strengthening effect. E.g.: Lavender, rosemary, lemon, sage, witch hazel, eucalyptus, etc.
• Antiseborrhoeic. Suppress seborrhoea which is accompanied by inflammation that causes scaling, erythema and itching. E.g. burdock, arnica, tomato, lily, etc.
• Cicatrisants. Promote healing, e.g.: horsetail, aloe vera, etc.
• Anti-cellulite. Examples would be cocoa, tea, coffee, guarana, etc.
• Enhancers and stimulators of skin metabolism. They stimulate the cells, cause an increase in energy consumption and reduce reserve substances. E.g.: Laminaria, fucus, sea lettuce (ulva lactuca), etc.
• Draining and decongestive. Activate peripheral microcirculation and act as a decongestant in the area of application. E.g.: Ginkgo biloba, horse chestnut, butcher’s broom, etc.
• Stretch marks. Remineralising, healing and regenerating plants such as beech, centella asiatica or horsetail are used.
• Circulatory disorders. They activate lymphatic drainage and improve venous tone. E.g.: Ivy, cliff, red vine, etc.
• Depigmenting agents. Inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme essential for the production of melanin. E.g. Yarrow, orange, lemon, kiwi, sapphire, mulberry, bearberry, etc.
• Sensitive and cuperose skin. They have an anti-inflammatory, emollient and antihistamine effect. E.g.: Oats, lotus, borage, calendula, etc.
• Hair products. They are used in shampoos or ampoules and have anti-hair loss, colouring, anti-fat and anti-dandruff properties. E.g.: Nasturtium, white nettle, juniper berries, rosemary, etc.

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