You’re no doubt familiar with elderflowers (if you haven’t tried elderflower liqueur in a cocktail you are missing out!), but did you know that elder trees also produce berries that have a host of beauty benefits?
Throughout history, elderberries have been widely utilised for their therapeutic attributes and are commonly labelled as a "superfood" due to the plethora of health advantages they offer. Elderberries contain a significant amount of antioxidants, natural alpha hydroxy acids, and vitamins A and C, all of which can enhance the general health and appearance of your skin. Elderberries also possess anti-inflammatory properties which can effectively diminish redness and irritation, making them an ideal ingredient for individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Beneficial when applied topically and also consumed in supplement form, here’s why you need to get elderberries into your beauty routine, stat!
What are elderberries?
Elderberries are dark purple berries that grow on the elder tree (Sambucus nigra or Sambucus canadensis). Used for centuries for medicinal properties, and more recently, in skincare formulas, they are rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
Top 5 reasons to try elderberry beauty
- Reduces redness and irritation
- Brightens skin
- Hydrates and moisturises
- Protects skin from premature ageing
- Boosts immunity and supports healthy digestion (when ingested)
Elderberry beauty benefits
Elderberry’s high nutrient profile makes it a powerhouse in your skincare and inner beauty routines. When applied topically or consumed internally, elderberry can have multiple positive effects on the skin, especially if you have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Antioxidant properties
Elderberries are a rich source of antioxidants, which help protect your skin from free radical damage that can lead to premature ageing, wrinkles, and other skin damage. Antioxidants also protect skin from environmental damage from UV rays and pollution and help skin to remain youthful and radiant.
Anti-Inflammatory properties
Elderberry is a top ingredient for helping calm and soothe inflamed skin. If you have sensitive skin or are prone to redness, your skin will benefit greatly from elderberry’s anti-inflammatory ability to reduce irritation.
Elderberry's anti-inflammatory properties combined with its antibacterial properties makes it ideal for combatting acne without drying out or irritating your skin.
Brightening properties
Due to elderberries containing natural alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), topical use can result in a brighter, clearer complexion. Elderberries can also help reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation by inhibiting melanin production and promoting skin cell turnover.
Moisturising properties
Packed with vitamins A and C, elderberry delivers a healthy hit of hydration and moisturisation to skin that will leave your complexion soft and supple. Additionally, these vitamins are crucial for preserving a strong skin barrier to ensure skin can retain moisture, defend against environmental stressors, and prevent moisture loss. It’s a great ingredient for dry or dehydrated skin types.
Anti-ageing effects
Elderberry can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by addressing oxidative stress, inflammation and supporting the skin barrier.
a-beauty’s elderberry edit
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11 Nov 2023
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