While adaptogens have been used in the holistic world for centuries, they haven’t exactly been a household name. In recent years, they have been gaining popularity in health and skin care, and for good reason.
Roots and herbs known as adaptogens can help alleviate stress. In addition, they have been used in many different scenarios, including meditation practices, to help protect the heart and liver, to prevent diseases, and have been said to help slow down the aging process and support the immune system. They are believed to fight fatigue and increase physical stamina too. While helping the body adapt to the effects of stress, they essentially work to promote and restore normal bodily functioning.
With adaptogens’ quirky name and skin-benefit claims (not to mention mental health benefits!), you may be wondering if you should be adding them to your routine.
Inside-out skin help
Treat your body to inside-out beauty with adaptogens that help to rebalance the stress response in the body. Adaptogens help to reduce adrenal fatigue and support healthy blood sugar levels. When applied topically or consumed, they can provide skin benefits as well.
“Adaptogens are excellent agents to help reduce the level of cortisol in our body, the hormone responsible for stress,” says nutritionist Wilize Maleombho. “[They] help rebalance our body [from] harsh environmental stress [to] help with the skin and hair”
Stress can trigger skin issues like acne, eczema, psoriasis, alopecia, dermatitis, and premature aging. Whether we’re seeing changes in our reflection or just under the microscope, stress-induced skin changes can shake self-esteem and impair the skin’s proper physiological functioning. And once the skin’s functions are compromised, a vicious cycle of stress and hormonal imbalance ensues, aggravating the body’s overall well-being.
Embracing adaptogens for skin health
Because of adaptogens’ ability to reduce stress, they can help to avoid or ease these skin issues by giving the skin a more radiant complexion. Research has found that adaptogens such as ashwagandha, bacopa, and rhodiola help the body to fight the damaging effects of stress when taken orally.
In addition, ashwagandha has a long history of topical use in Ayurvedic medicine to soothe swelling. Preliminary research shows that ashwagandha may protect against skin inflammation—so it’s no surprise that this medicinal herb is starting to show up in various skincare products.
To receive their benefits, adaptogens are often eaten and taken in tea form, but are commonly found in tincture, capsule, and powder form as well. There are many adaptogens that are currently being used in skin care for their multitude of benefits, including facial cleansers, serums, balms, moisturizers, and lotions.
Adaptogens to look for
Maca – a commonly used adaptogen that is said to help protect against UVA/UVB rays.
Ashwagandha – a super skin saver that is shown to have anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
Rhodiola – an anti-aging adaptogen that has also been shown to have skin healing properties.
Licorice root – a skin favorite that may be helpful for conditions such as acne, eczema, and dermatitis.
Cordyceps – an adaptogen that increases antioxidants to help fight against free radicals that can cause aging.
Ginseng – a skin booster known for its anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and skin protection properties.
Dosages will vary depending on the adaptogen, its intended use, its format (most adaptogens are found in tea, tincture, or capsule format), and if other medications being taken.
The next time you notice skin issues that need addressing, ask yourself if stress may be the root of the problem. Your beauty routine is as much about what you put inside your body as what you put onto it.
Think before you drink
Always read the label and do your research before combining adaptogens. Some adaptogens can give you energy while others are more calming. Typically, when in tincture form, the front label will let you know. Taking two opposite adaptogens can be counter-productive to the mood you are trying to achieve.
DIY Adaptogen elixirs for skin health
Check out these quick recipes below for renewed skin and mind.
Mood-Enhancing & Skin Protecting Maca Powder Malt:
1 frozen banana
Your favorite non-dairy milk
1 tsp Maca powder
Sweetener (honey, agave, date syrup), to taste
Add all ingredients to blender. Blend until smooth and enjoy.
Energizing & radiance-boosting Ginseng Refresher
Hibiscus tea
I tsp Ginseng
Sweetener (honey, agave, date syrup), to taste
Mint leaves, to taste
Ice
Brew your favorite hibiscus tea and allow to cool. Stir in ginseng and sweetener, add a few mint leaves and ice for a midday refresher!
Calming & Anti-Aging Ashwagandha Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea
Your favorite non-dairy milk
1 tsp Ashwagandha
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sweetener (honey, agave, date syrup), to taste
Brew your favorite tea and mix in warm non-dairy milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener. Perfect for bedtime.
