Scientist looking at extract in lab
06 Dec

Nature's Beauty: The Benefits of Functional Food Ingredients in Cosmetics


Consumers are increasingly seeking natural, skin-friendly alternatives in the ever-evolving world of cosmetics and skincare. Functional food ingredients have gained recognition as valuable cosmetic additives, promising users both nourishment and sustainability.

Natural ingredients, rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds, offer a unique approach to an individual’s skincare routine. In this blog, we'll explore the trend of using functional food ingredients in cosmetics and how it can revolutionize customers’ beauty regimens.

The Power of Functional Food Ingredients in Cosmetics

Cosmetic products have come a long way from merely enhancing appearances. Today, consumers want products that not only make them look good but also improve the health and condition of their skin. This shift has led to integrating functional food ingredients into cosmetics, combining beauty and wellness in one package.

"The skin is the last place to receive vitamins and is naturally deficient in vitamins and antioxidants; the skin needs an extra boost. A healthy combination of basic vitamins and antioxidants will enhance the skin and its ability to protect itself," says Jim Greene, vice president of research and development for Shaklee Corp. in New Hope Network.

Functional foods provide essential nutrients and also offer additional health benefits. When applied topically, these ingredients can address various skin concerns, from hydration and anti-aging to soothing irritation and promoting a balanced complexion.

Let's delve into some functional food ingredients that can work wonders for a customer's skin!

Green Tea Extract

Green tea extract has found its place in cosmetics as a powerful functional food ingredient. Renowned for its rich antioxidant properties, green tea extract protects the skin from harmful free radicals, reducing signs of aging and promoting a youthful complexion. Its soothing properties make it effective in calming irritated skin and reducing redness. This natural ingredient has become a staple in cosmetics, offering protective and rejuvenating benefits for healthier and more radiant skin.

Vitamins A, C, and E

Vitamins A, C, and E are organic compounds in our bodies for various metabolic processes, but they can also be found in many cosmetic products. Vitamin A, also known as retinol, promotes skin rejuvenation and reduces the appearance of fine lines. Vitamin C is celebrated for its brightening and antioxidant properties, fighting free radicals, and aiding collagen production. Meanwhile, vitamin E aids in moisturization and protects the skin from UV damage, making these vitamins essential in modern skincare formulations.

Bacillus Natto Productive Protein (BNPP)

Bacillus Natto Productive Protein (BNPP) has emerged as a promising functional food ingredient in cosmetics. Derived from the traditional Japanese dish, natto, BNPP exhibits remarkable skincare benefits. According to Cosmetics Design Asia, studies show that BNPP positively affects skin tone and texture, skin elasticity and resilience, moisture, fine lines, dark circles, eye bags, and sagging skin around the cheeks and mouth. Recently, BNPP has gained attention for its potential, making it an intriguing addition to the world of skincare formulations.

Chamomile

Chamomile has been seamlessly integrated into cosmetics. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties make it a valuable addition to help calm irritated skin, reduce redness, and alleviate various skin conditions. New Hope Network mentions that one New York City-based company uses the ingredient in eye creams to treat puffiness and irritation with the natural antioxidants of chamomile and its ability to protect against future skin damage. Additionally, chamomile's gentle nature and mild aroma make it suitable for sensitive skin products, promoting a sense of comfort and relief in cosmetic formulas.

Adding functional food ingredients to cosmetics creates a harmonious fusion of beauty and wellness. These ingredients offer a natural, safe, and effective way to care for your skin while achieving your desired cosmetic results. By choosing products that harness the power of nature, you can elevate your skincare routine and achieve radiant, healthy skin. As the beauty industry evolves, using functional food ingredients highlights a shift towards more naturally nourishing and protective skincare methods.

In this changing landscape, awareness of various industry practices, including sustainability and eco-friendliness, is growing. As informed consumers, recognizing the diversity of approaches and options available on the market can guide our choices. Whether it's considering the type of ingredients used or the packaging methods employed, each decision reflects personal preferences and values.

At Golden Arrow, our commitment aligns with these evolving industry trends. We specialize in creating premium quality sustainable packaging to reduce the carbon footprint and support a healthier, greener future. Our approach is about more than just packaging; it's about embodying the values of sustainability and eco-consciousness that are increasingly important in today's world. By offering sustainable packaging solutions, we strive to bridge the gap between brand values and consumer expectations, contributing to a more responsible beauty industry. Golden Arrow is ready to assist those seeking packaging options that resonate with these principles. Get in contact with us today!

Sources:
https://www.cosmeticsdesign-asia.com/Article/2023/11/02/natto-derived-functional-ingredient-shows-multiple-skin-care-benefits-and-stability-for-cosmetic-applications?utm_source=newsletter_daily&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=08-Nov-2023&cid=DM1104649&bid=246455482
https://www.newhope.com/vitamins-and-supplements/cosmeceuticals-functional-food-for-the-skin