People have turned to ginger root for its medicinal properties for thousands of years, from soothing digestion to fighting illness. Ginger also adds a distinctive flavor to many common dishes, particularly in Asian and Indian cooking. But it doesn't stop there.
Due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, Ginger Root Extract (formally known as Zingiber Officinale) is making a splash in anti-aging and protective skin care products. The benefits of ginger root for skin include increased antioxidant levels and reduced dark spots, making it a noteworthy ingredient in sunscreen.
Benefits of Ginger Root for Skin
Ginger may already have a place in your medicine cabinet and on your spice rack. But you might want to consider carving out a space for it in your skin care routine, too. Here are some of the benefits of ginger root for skin.
1. Repairs Sun-Damaged Skin
One of the main appeals of Ginger Root Extract for skin is its ability to help repair sun damage. One study showed that a compound in ginger root that gives the plant its spicy taste can reduce inflammation and help heal ultraviolet (UV) skin damage.
You've likely been in the position where you forgot to apply sunscreen (or didn't apply it properly) only to end up with a sunburn. Over time, cumulative sun damage like tanning and burning can lead to skin concerns. Signs of sun-damaged skin include wrinkles, uneven skin tone, dark spots, and loose skin. And it's more common than you'd think—according to the Skin Cancer Foundation, almost everyone has some degree of sun damage.
The good news? You can help prevent sun damage by protecting your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily while Ginger Root Extract tackles existing damage.
2. Fights Free Radicals and Visible Signs of Aging
Ginger Root Extract checks all the boxes when it comes to helping your skin fight off unwanted invaders. This is because Ginger Root Extract contains antioxidants, which help protect against environmental aggressors such as UV rays, free radicals, pollution, and harsh climate conditions. These can all damage the skin barrier.
Over the years, free radicals cause oxidation in your system, degrading the collagen in your skin and leading to loss of elasticity and firmness. This results in wrinkles, fine lines, and sagging. While aging is natural, you can avoid showing your years prematurely with a little help. When applied topically to the skin, studies show that Ginger Root Extract can reduce visible signs of aging due to its antioxidant activity.
3. Brightens Dark Spots
As an antioxidant, ginger root doubles as a skin-brightening agent. Like Vitamin C, it can revitalize dull skin and reduce the appearance of dark spots. This makes it especially helpful for lightening hyperpigmentation, melasma, and scars.
4. Improves Skin Texture
Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties may soothe irritated skin, such as eczema and psoriasis flare-ups and inflamed acne. Research also indicates that topical Ginger Oil can reduce skin roughness in general, improving overall skin texture and encouraging a softer, smoother complexion.
How to Use Ginger Root on Skin
Ginger is generally considered safe both orally and topically, but it's helpful to keep some best practices in mind when applying ginger to your skin. Like with any new skin care ingredient, perform a patch test on a small area of skin to see if you have any reactions before fully integrating a product with Ginger Root Extract into your routine.
You can find ginger root in several skin care products, including serums, facial oils, and sunscreens. If you're using it as an essential oil, always dilute it with a carrier oil to prevent irritation.
Using a sunscreen formulated with Ginger Root Extract can be a powerful double punch—SPF prevents sun damage while Ginger Root Extract helps repair it. Try a formula like EltaMD UV Restore Broad-Spectrum SPF 40, which includes this star ingredient plus Squalane and antioxidants Vitamin C and E to minimize discoloration and promote a supple, smooth complexion.
The Beauty of Ginger Root Extract in Skin and Sun Care
All in all, Ginger Root Extract supports many bodily functions. And that includes the primary function of skin: to provide a protective barrier against environmental aggressors. Packed with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Ginger Root Extract can help improve the quality of your outermost layer, from the way it looks to the way it feels and functions. Here's to harnessing the power of nature to achieve a complexion that reflects your inner glow.
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