superfoods for your face

the bottom line

They’re everywhere and in everything: superfoods. But what on earth are they, and what makes them so super, anyways? And what do they have to do with skincare? Before you smear any more of your breakfast on your face, stop, drop (the berries), and read on.

first layer: the secret to being super

Superfoods are nutrient-rich foods which are believed to promote health and general well-being. They may have high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, or other nutrients. Keep in mind that “superfood” isn’t a medical term; it’s just a clever way of marketing beneficial foods. The idea is that these foods, which are wonderful when ingested, can potentially impart some of that goodness to the skin as well.

second layer: the supers

So, who are these unsung heroes? Some of our favorite superfoods include:

turmeric, prized for its bright yellow color and anti-inflammatory prowess, is found in everything from lattes to facial masques;

pomegranate, which has been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and even anti-tumor effects;

mango, often found in butter form, is another source of anti-oxidants and may even accelerate wound healing;

raspberry, with an exceptionally high concentration of vitamin E, expresses anti-inflammatory and regenerative effects;

moringa, which has its origins in northern India, is packed with protein, vitamins, and anti-oxidants;

cacao, containing extremely high levels of anti-oxidants, also possesses minerals including iron, selenium, zinc, and manganese, which are critical components of collagen synthesis and wound healing;

green tea, which has anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-oxidation properties, has been used to improve skin moisturization levels and texture;

chlorella, an algae, contains high levels of protein, iron, vitamin C, minerals, and anti-oxidants;

acai, found in the Amazon rainforest, has been used traditionally in diet, medicine, and cosmetics. It has very high anti-oxidative activity and helps with skin regeneration; and,

spirulina, an algae which is full of nutrients including proteins, vitamins, and minerals, has been used to prevent early skin aging and reduce pigmentation.

third layer: where to find supers

So how are these wonder-foods incorporated into skincare? They are found in almost every form of skincare, if you look closely enough. We most often fine them in luxurious masques, which incorporate fine micronized superfood powders into their formulas. These masques may be in powder or cream form; both work beautifully on the skin. These powders also lend an amazing texture and color to their masques, making them a lot of fun to use. Cleansers, scrubs, and serums have also been known to shelter these fine ingredients. Start reading the fine print on the back of those boxes and you may be surprised.

fourth layer: how to be super

When selecting your ideal super, look for those nutrient-dense ingredients we’ve just discussed. Think about how you like to apply masques; do you prefer a powder blend which you can customize, or is a ready-made masque your best bet? You could even purchase a superfood powder and add it to your current favorite masque for an extra boost. Use a cleanser with a superfood several times each week and see if you notice a difference in the clarity and elasticity of your skin. If you use a super scrub, leave it on a few moments longer than normal to allow the enriched ingredients to work a bit longer.

A little plug: anokha loves being super, too. Our brand-new rice bran & pomegranate facial cleansing oil contains pomegranate, rice bran, castor seed, and sunflower seed oils to deeply cleanse, hydrate, and help repair the skin. Feel super all day long.

All this and more at www.anokhaskincare.com .

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