Although sunshine is an essential source of wellbeing and health, especially for vitamin D and endorphin production, it’s no secret that repeated sun exposure often results in premature skin aging. Eager to protect their skin against UV ray damages, consumers are increasingly looking for products that deliver performance for a long-lasting youthful look.
The human body has developed a group of natural mechanisms to minimize damage to the skin caused by UV radiation. But as time goes by (and with repeated exposure), these repair mechanisms wear down. “UV-induced inflammation and disorganization of collagen fibrils can occur along with dramatic effects on skin barrier function,” explains Naturex.
An active derived from cherry blossom
To protect the skin against the harmful effects of sunlight, Naturex has used its new generation a patented extraction process - the so called Eutectigenesis [1] - to extract precious botanical actives from cherry blossoms sourced in the heart of Provence, less than 50 miles from the company’s French processing facility. The fresh flowers, a by-product of cherry fruit cultivation, are carefully handpicked within the usual cultivation process. These fragile and short-lived flowers can deliver powerful cosmetic benefits especially when they are carefully grown and harvested.
Indeed, tests conducted by Naturex shows that Cherry Blossom Eutectys has anti-inflammatory effects, by inhibition of TNF-α release. “Its anti-oxidant benefits also prevent oxidative stress and avoid any triggering of the DJ1-Nrf2 pathway,” says the company.
Cherry Blossom also has firming and regenerating effects as “it increases collagen synthesis and inhibits MMP-1 release, which contributes to the repair of the Extra Cellular Matrix.”
Last but not least, according to Naturex, the new botanical active helps to improve the skin barrier function by increasing cell-to-cell adhesion and cornification.
Three illustrative formulations
To showcase the benefits of this new botanical active, Naturex has developed three new applications, which were presented at the in-cosmetic tradeshow: a face fluid, and hydrating face oil and a rejuvenating mask.
