Herbal principles in cosmetics focus on the use of —natural bioactive compounds derived from plants—to improve skin and hair health . Unlike synthetic cosmetics, herbal formulations leverage plant-based mechanisms to provide therapeutic benefits like antioxidant protection, hydration, and anti-inflammatory action with fewer side effects. Core Mechanisms of Action
: Lipids and fatty acids from species like the Inca peanut and coconut palm (rich in lauric acid) help restore the skin's moisture barrier and prevent water loss. Herbal Principles in Cosmetics
: Terpenoids found in essential oils can damage the cell walls of harmful microbes, serving as natural alternatives to synthetic preservatives. Key Herbal Ingredients & Their Uses Herbal principles in cosmetics focus on the use
: Phenolic compounds (like those in olive oil and pomegranates) contain benzene ring structures that act as natural UV filters . : Terpenoids found in essential oils can damage
: Extracts like green algae ( Chlorella vulgaris ) inhibit metalloproteinases (enzymes that break down collagen) and stimulate new collagen synthesis.
Plants produce secondary metabolites that interact with human skin biology at a molecular level: