Core Plant Components/compounds Flashcards
What are Phytosterols
Phytosterols
Phytosterols are plant-based compounds similar in structure to cholesterol, but with unique benefits when applied topically to the skin. They play a critical role in strengthening and repairing the skin’s barrier.
• Barrier Support: Phytosterols reinforce the skin’s lipid layer, essential for protecting against environmental damage, locking in moisture, and preventing irritation. • Anti-Inflammatory: They calm and reduce skin inflammation, making them particularly beneficial for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or acne-prone skin. • Moisture Retention: By enhancing the skin barrier, phytosterols improve the skin’s ability to retain hydration, reducing trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL). • Esthetician Insight: For clients with compromised barriers, dryness, or redness, phytosterols are ideal as they soothe and restore the skin without causing irritation, making them suitable for most skin types.
Phospholipids
Phospholipids
Phospholipids are naturally occurring molecules that make up cell membranes, acting as building blocks for healthy skin structure. They help form a protective barrier that locks moisture in and keeps external irritants out.
• Deep Hydration: Phospholipids act like a delivery system, drawing in moisture and transporting nutrients deep into the skin layers, making them excellent in serums and creams. • Barrier Restoration: They support the skin’s natural lipid layer, which is vital for maintaining hydration and elasticity. • Enhanced Absorption: Phospholipids help other active ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin, boosting the effectiveness of serums and treatments. • Esthetician Insight: For clients with dehydrated or mature skin, phospholipids are excellent for locking in moisture. They allow products to penetrate more effectively, especially for clients struggling with dry, lackluster skin.
Terpenes
Terpenes
Terpenes are aromatic compounds found in plants, known for their unique scents and therapeutic properties. They provide antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, which make them versatile in skincare.
• Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing: Terpenes like linalool (from lavender) and limonene (from citrus) have calming effects that reduce skin redness and irritation. • Antimicrobial Properties: Some terpenes have natural antimicrobial qualities, which are beneficial for managing acne-prone or blemished skin. • Aromatic Benefits: The scent from terpenes can have a relaxing effect on the mind, creating a holistic experience that also benefits the skin. • Esthetician Insight: Terpenes are great for clients who enjoy aromatherapy benefits. They add a natural fragrance to products while addressing skin conditions like acne or inflammation.
Polyphenols
Polyphenols
Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants found in plants, often providing anti-aging and protective benefits to the skin. They are commonly found in ingredients like green tea, berries, and cacao.
• Antioxidant Protection: Polyphenols combat oxidative stress from environmental factors like pollution and UV rays, which can accelerate aging. • Anti-Aging and Skin Firming: They promote skin elasticity and reduce fine lines, making them ideal for clients looking to slow down signs of aging. • Brightening: Polyphenols can improve skin tone and reduce hyperpigmentation, leading to a more even complexion. • Esthetician Insight: Polyphenols are great for mature or sun-damaged skin, helping to protect against future damage while repairing existing signs of aging.
Flavonoids
Flavonoids
A subclass of polyphenols, flavonoids are compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and flowers that have high antioxidant activity, promoting skin resilience.
• UV Protection: Flavonoids absorb UV light, reducing its impact on skin and protecting against photoaging. • Anti-Inflammatory: They have a soothing effect on the skin, making them beneficial for redness-prone or sensitive skin types. • Improved Circulation: Flavonoids can boost microcirculation, which is essential for delivering nutrients to the skin and achieving a natural glow. • Esthetician Insight: Flavonoids are ideal for clients with sensitive skin or those frequently exposed to sunlight. They reinforce the skin’s defense against environmental stressors while maintaining a calm, clear complexion.
Fatty Acids
Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids like omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 are crucial for skin health. They come from plant oils such as jojoba, rosehip, and evening primrose.
• Skin Barrier Strength: Fatty acids are essential for maintaining the skin’s natural barrier, helping to prevent dehydration and irritation. • Anti-Inflammatory: Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and support healing. • Moisture and Softness: They provide emollient benefits, leaving skin soft, supple, and hydrated. • Esthetician Insight: For dry, flaky, or compromised skin barriers, fatty acids are transformative. They’re gentle enough for nearly all skin types and can be tailored for clients needing intense hydration without feeling greasy.
Tannins
Tannins
Tannins are astringent compounds found in plants like witch hazel, oak bark, and green tea. They’re known for their toning and tightening properties.
• Pore Minimization: Tannins tighten pores and give skin a firmer appearance, which is beneficial for clients with oily or acne-prone skin. • Oil Control: They help regulate sebum production, reducing shine and preventing clogged pores. • Anti-Inflammatory: Tannins calm inflammation, making them useful for acne-prone or sensitive skin types. • Esthetician Insight: Tannins are great for clients with enlarged pores or excess oil. They offer a non-drying, gentle astringent effect, leaving skin balanced and clarified.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are pigments in plants, such as beta-carotene (from carrots) and lycopene (from tomatoes), with potent antioxidant effects.
• UV Protection and Anti-Aging: Carotenoids help protect against sun damage and oxidative stress, reducing signs of aging like wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. • Skin Brightening: They improve skin tone and radiance, often giving skin a natural glow. • Cellular Repair: Carotenoids support skin renewal and repair, helping to strengthen the skin from within. • Esthetician Insight: Carotenoids are ideal for clients concerned about aging and sun exposure. They help brighten the complexion and protect against further damage.
Alkaloids
Alkaloids
Alkaloids are organic compounds that, when used carefully, offer skin-soothing and healing benefits. Found in plants like comfrey and poppy, they are often used in small amounts.
• Pain Relief and Soothing: Some alkaloids provide mild analgesic effects, soothing irritated or painful skin. • Anti-Inflammatory and Healing: Alkaloids promote wound healing and can reduce inflammation, which is beneficial for compromised skin. • Esthetician Insight: Alkaloids are especially helpful in products aimed at healing irritated or inflamed skin. They’re best suited for clients with skin sensitivities or those recovering from treatments.
Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides
Polysaccharides are long-chain sugar molecules found in ingredients like aloe vera, seaweed, and mushrooms, known for their hydrating and soothing effects.
• Deep Hydration: Polysaccharides act as humectants, drawing moisture to the skin and keeping it hydrated over time. • Soothing and Calming: They form a protective layer on the skin that soothes and protects, especially beneficial for sensitive or compromised skin. • Anti-Aging: By promoting hydration, polysaccharides can reduce the appearance of fine lines and give skin a plump, youthful look. • Esthetician Insight: Polysaccharides are perfect for clients with sensitive or dehydrated skin. They help create a plump, youthful appearance while delivering lasting hydration without heaviness.
