7 Powerful Plant Extracts In Skincare For Glowing, Blemish-Free Skin

If you’re part of the crowd of people trying to edge towards natural skincare products, you’re not alone. Per Research And Markets, “The global plant extracts market is projected to grow from USD 30.8 billion in 2021 to USD 55.3 billion by 2026.” That’s likely because plant extracts have been used for centuries as medicine, make-up and skin management. Now, we’re turning towards plant extracts in skincare as an alternative solution.

Plant extracts are not only good for the skin, they’re also a natural alternative to harsher synthetic formulations that could dry out skin. They’re also complex and work on multiple levels, sometimes performing more than one (amazing!) action on your skin.

The best part? These extracts are largely endemic or indigenous to South Africa, proving that everything you need is already all around you (and that South Africa really is a goldmine).

Bulbine frutescens

Bulbine frutescens is a small indigenous shrub that grows in the dry valleys of southern Africa. This succulent has gel-like sap in its leaves, which has been used by generations of traditional healers as a remedy for skin injuries. It contains soothing anti-
inflammatory properties.

Get it in: Afari Overnight Regenerating Cream

You’ll wake up with plumper and smoother skin. It’s packed with potent, skin-repairing botanicals that stimulate natural collagen production and promote cell renewal while you sleep.

Afari Overnight Regenerating Cream

R 795

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Rooibos

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) is proven to help fight free radical activity that leads to oxidative stress and lifestyle diseases, as well
as skin ageing.

Get it in: African Extracts Rooibos Radiance Illuminating Moisturiser SPF20

A non-greasy complexion-correcting cream that provides radiant, shine-free skin all day long. The hero ingredient, Spilanthes Acmella flower, known as a “natural Botox alternative”, firms and smooths skin.

African Extracts Rooibos Moisturising Illuminator SPF20

R 220

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Aloe

Aloe vera is kind of the Superman of the botanical world. It’s full of vitamins, minerals and anti-inflammatory compounds that provide healing relief from irritation.

Get it in: Lelive Jelly Splash Rooibos + Aloe Jelly Cleanser

This cleanser cleans your skin without drying it out or stripping. it. It’s formulated to be gentle but effective. Contains aloe, rooibos, green tea and rose water to soothe and purify.

Lelive Jelly Splash Rooibos + Aloe Jelly Cleanser

R 329

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Buchu

An ancient homegrown herb that’s been used for centuries as a natural anti- inflammatory and pain reliever by the San and Khoikhoi people. Buchu has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

Get it in: Le Naturel Buchu Balm

This wonderful balm has both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s been made to relieve irritated skin, dryness and itching.

Le Naturel Buchu Healing Balm

R 99

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Marine extracts

Look to the botanicals of the sea to bump up hydration, preserve your skin’s natural barrier and protect against the natural break-down of collagen.

Get it in: Elemis ProCollagen Marine Cream

Clinically proven to instantly hydrate, it firms and smooths skin. Worth the bucks.

Elemis Pro-Collagen Marine Cream

R 2070

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CBD

CBD is a chemical compound present in the Cannabis Sativa plant. Due to its potential anti-inflammatory properties, CBD may be useful for treating many skin conditions, including acne, eczema and psoriasis.

Get it in: Good Leaf CBD Glow Serum

It’s formulated using African botanicals like mongongo oil (rich in Vitamin E) and baobab oil (high in omega fatty acids) to replenish moisture and restore softness to the skin.

Good Leaf CBD Glow Serum

R 395

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Green tea

Green tea’s anti- inflammatory properties can help reduce skin irritation, skin redness and swelling. According to studies, its antioxidant powers can help repair DNA damage caused by UV rays.

Get it in: Teaology Green Tea Detox Face Scrub

An exfoliating cream that contains real tea leaves and sugar micro-crystals with a moisturising and soothing effect. Antioxidant-rich organic green tea extract brightens skin tone and leaves the complexion glowing.

TEAOLOGY Green Tea Detox Face Scrub 50ml

R 428

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