Skincare benefits of Flowers

Floral ingredients have been one of the mainstays of beauty and skincare from time immemorial now. Age-old cosmetic recipes and remedies have documented the use of flowers, while grandma’s handy hints across countries and cultures include them as well. While initially, cosmetic companies started off using flowers and flower extract mainly for the use of their fragrance and feel-good factor, in recent times, the industry has woken up to the potent benefits that each of these flowers offer. From perfumes to lotions and bath essentials, a variety of floral offerings have found their way into our daily skincare routines, and for good reason.

Let’s take a look at some of the most popular flowers in skincare, what their benefits are, and how to use them.

Lotus

Revered in India as a sacred plant, celebrating in mythology and lore, the Indian lotus has several skincare benefits, with each part of the plant being used for a different purpose. The extract of the petals contain properties suited to Ayurvedic skincare, often used to improve the texture and elasticity of the skin. It is full of vitamins like C (essential for skin brightening and immunity), B complex (ideal for anti-ageing benefits) and a lot of essential minerals to skin and hair health. The fatty acids and proteins present in the lotus flower keep the skin nourished at all times. Lotus extracts contain skin balancing properties, which help balance sebum production in the body. In oily skins, this is beneficial in preventing clogged pores, acne and blackheads. Lotus hair oil is also said to prevent premature graying, hair fall and dry scalp.

Sunflower

In ancient America, where the sunflower has its origins, it was synonymous with gold and the sun and therefore worshipped. It also has motor cells in its head, which automatically moves it so it faces the sun. No wonder then that noted artistes Van Gogh and Picasso both enjoyed painting sunflowers, for its benefits are manifold.

Sunflowers are synonymous with happiness and mental well-being. Besides this, they also pack a punch with their extracts being used across beauty products to provide the skin with vitamins and protein. The primary benefit of sunflower oil for skin, is that it is rich in vitamin E, which is a natural emollient, and essential to moisturise the skin thoroughly. Also, thanks to its exposure to the sun, you’ll get enough vitamin D from this magical flower – and underrated but much-needed vitamin in skin health. From fighting sunburn to wrinkles, you can just apply this to your face and watch it work its magic. Snacking on sunflower seeds as a healthy between-meals option is also good for the skin. Not only do you stock up on dietary fiber, you’ll also be sending amino acids, protein, vitamin E to nourish the skin from inside out. These are also great to lower cholesterol levels.