Natural products are widely used in cosmetic preparations because their mammalian toxicity is generally low. They can be used in skin care such as dryness, eczema, acne, free radical scavenging, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and skin protection, as well as hair growth stimulators in hair care, and hair colorant. At the same time, plant essential oils have other beneficial effects, such as pleasant aroma, shine or conditioning effect inhair care products, and improving skin elasticity.
Applications
- Skin care: Plants have large and complex phytochemicals that not only calm, restore and heal the skin, but also undergo rigorous clinical trials and pharmacological testings. Cosmetics that contain polysaccharides, complex sugars and starch derivatives can relieve dryness and provide a soothing membrane covering the skin. The use of seed oils rich in fatty acids and triglycerides protects the skin from hydration and produces a softening effect on the skin and hair preparations, thereby reducing transepidermal water loss. Plant extracts with anti-inflammatory properties usually have high levels of flavonoids and in the case of infection, using many anti-microbial and anti-fungal biocides is beneficial. For example, rose oil is an essential oil extracted from various rose petals. Rose oils contain a variety of vitamins and antioxidants that moisturize dry skin; they also provide antibacterial and astringent properties for the treatment of acne skin.
- Hair care: Plant extracts can be used as hair growth stimulators, hair colorants and dyes, as well as for the treatments for hair and scalp diseases such as dandruff. Various plant extracts have been patented for applying in hair growth or hair tonic products, as well as anti-hair loss products. These patents claim that the effect on hair growth is due to stimulation of hair follicle or scalp metabolism, possibly due to accelerated blood circulation, activation of the dermal papilla, anti-testosterone action, or increased hair follicle nutrition by accelerating blood flow. Sage, rosemary and labiatae extracts can control dandruff, prevent hair loss, and promote the natural health of hair.
