HISTORY
The humble blueberry, known scientifically as Vaccinium corymbosum, has a storied history that dates back centuries. Originating in North America, blueberries were a staple in Native American diets, valued not only for their taste but also for their medicinal properties. The indigenous peoples used blueberries to treat various ailments, thanks to their high nutritional content and antioxidant properties. It wasn't until the 20th century that blueberries began to be recognized for their potential in skincare.
In Japan, blueberries have been embraced for both their culinary and health benefits. The Japanese term for blueberry, "ブルーベリー" (burūberī), reflects the fruit's introduction and adaptation into Japanese culture. The pristine environment of regions like Hokkaido provides an ideal setting for cultivating high-quality blueberries.
SCIENCE
Blueberry extract, derived from the Vaccinium corymbosum, has a storied history in skincare that dates back centuries. Originating in North America, blueberries were a staple in Native American diets, valued for their taste and medicinal properties. The indigenous peoples used blueberries to treat various ailments, thanks to their high nutritional content and antioxidant properties. It wasn't until the 20th century that blueberries began to be recognized for their potential in skincare. The beauty industry, always on the lookout for natural ingredients with potent benefits, turned to blueberries for their rich antioxidant content. In the 1990s, the first blueberry-infused skincare products began to appear on the market, marking the beginning of a new era in natural skincare.
Blueberries are renowned for their high levels of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give the fruit its distinctive blue color. These antioxidants play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals, unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to skin cells. Oxidative stress is a major contributor to premature aging, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of skin elasticity. By incorporating blueberry extract into skincare, it is possible to harness these powerful antioxidants to protect the skin and maintain its youthful appearance.
Blueberry extract is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, all of which are essential for maintaining healthy skin. Vitamin A, in the form of beta-carotene, promotes cell turnover and helps maintain the skin’s barrier, ensuring it stays resilient and robust. Vitamin C is well-known for its brightening properties and its role in collagen synthesis, which helps to keep the skin firm and youthful. Meanwhile, Vitamin E provides additional antioxidant protection and aids in skin repair and hydration, making blueberry extract a comprehensive solution for various skin concerns.
Blueberry extract is excellent for keeping your skin hydrated and healthy. It works by stopping the formation of harmful molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). AGEs form when sugars attach to skin proteins, causing these proteins to become stiff and less functional. This leads to several skin problems, including dehydration, loss of elasticity, and premature aging. By preventing AGEs, blueberry extract helps maintain the flexibility and effectiveness of skin proteins that are crucial for holding onto moisture.
Additionally, the antioxidants in blueberry extract protect your skin from damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can weaken the skin barrier and cause water loss. This protection helps your skin stay hydrated and look more supple. In essence, blueberry extract not only keeps your skin moist but also strengthens its overall health by combating both AGEs and free radicals, making it a valuable ingredient in your skincare routine.
REFERENCES
- Draelos, Z. D., Yatskayer, M., Raab, S., & Oresajo, C. (2009). An evaluation of the effect of a topical product containing C-xyloside and blueberry extract on the appearance of type II diabetic skin. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 8, 147–151.
- Morita, M., Naito, Y., Yoshikawa, T., & Nikia, E. (2017). Antioxidant capacity of blueberry extracts: Peroxyl radical scavenging and inhibition of plasma lipid oxidation induced by multiple oxidants. Journal of Berry Research, 7, 1–9.
- Giacalone, M., Di Sacco, F., Traupe, I., Topini, R., Forfori, F., & Giunta, F. (2011). Antioxidant and neuroprotective properties of blueberry polyphenols: a critical review. Nutritional Neuroscience, 14(3), 119-125.
