SKIN BARRIER REPAIR

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) herbs contain bioactive components that can effectively repair the skin's protective barrier, which is essential for maintaining hydration and protecting against external damage.
These compounds work by modulating various cellular pathways that regulate skin barrier function.

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HYDRATION & ELASTICITY 

Some herbs are used to combat dryness and maintain skin's elasticity.
Goji berries, for instance, contain polysaccharides that promote skin hydration and give the skin a more youthful appearance.

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ADDRESSING THE ROOT CAUSE

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Traditional Chinese Medicine sees skin concerns as outward signs of deeper internal imbalances. Rather than simply masking symptoms, this holistic approach focuses on restoring harmony within the body to promote lasting skin health.

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For example, acne is viewed as a reflection of internal disharmony. Carefully selected herbs are used to rebalance the body, which naturally leads to clearer, healthier skin. Similarly, certain botanicals can help soothe an overactive immune system, offering relief for conditions such as hives. By nurturing balance from within, TCM supports true, radiant skin wellness.

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KEY MECHANISMS OF ACTION

 

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Herbs like licorice root and schisandra berry contain compounds that inhibit inflammatory pathways, reducing redness and irritation associated with various skin conditions.

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ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY: Berries like goji and maqui are particularly rich in antioxidants that neutralize free radicals, a primary cause of premature aging and environmental damage.

SKIN BARRIER REPAIR: Ashwagandha and schisandra extracts enhance the skin's protective barrier function, which helps retain moisture and prevents external irritant penetration.

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IMPROVED HYDRATION: Tremella mushroom and goji berries support the skin's ability to retain moisture, leading to a plumper, smoother complexion.

COLLAGEN SUPPORT: Several herbs, including ashwagandha and schisandra, promote the synthesis of collagen and elastin, essential proteins for maintaining skin firmness and elasticity.

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ADAPTOGENIC EFFECTS: Ashwagandha and schisandra are adaptogens, meaning they help the body adapt to stress (both internal and environmental), which can directly reduce stress-related skin flare-ups and damage.

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In addition, adaptogens are thought to slow the appearance of aging.

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• Schisandra – this fruit-bearing vine can help promote firmer looking skin.

       Schisandra chinensis is a wonderful berry hailing from its home in the lush, mountainous regions of China, and it is an adaptogen and a tonic         herb often used to promote longevity and vitality, balance liver conditions, control blood sugar, aid in digestive processes, support the             immune system, and help with memory and focus. You find Shizandra berry in our Multivitamin Face Balm and Botanical Qi Face Serum.

• Maca – helps boost collagen production and manage hormones, which could improve acne outbreaks.

• Maqui Berry - a “super-fruit” due to its high antioxidant content and its ability to reduce inflammation, which leads to less redness and irritation. You find Maqui berry in our Multivitamin Face Balm.

• Goji berry - High in antioxidants and micronutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin A.Assists in preventing skin aging and inflammation.

       You find this super-powerful berry in our Multivitamin Face Balm

• Centella Asiatica - assists in restoring the skin's moisture barrier.

      Commonly known as gotu kola, meaning “Fountain of Youth” in Sanskrit, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the family Mackinlayaceae. It is a          mild adaptogen and has been used as a medicinal herb for thousands of years in India. 

      You find Centella in our Multivitamin Face Balm,  Phyto-Retinol and Botanical Qi Face Serum.

• Reishi mushrooms – packed with beta-glucans, these mushrooms combat environmental stressors and tame inflammation.

• Rhodiola Rosea – this super-herb supports collagen and elastin production. 

       Rhodiola, known as the "golden root" or "arctic root" is found in the mountainous parts of Europe and Asia, and has long been employed in           Eurasian traditional medicine as a natural tonic, referred to as an "adaptogen." Rhodiola is used to promote good health, strength,                      endurance and physical and mental performance. You find Rhodiola in our Botanical Qi Face Serum.

• Triphala – a combination of three fruit-bearing trees, amalaki, bibhitaki and haritaki, triphala can help speed the healing times of bruising and sunburns.

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Adaptogens and Chinese medicinal herbs work together to support your skin’s natural resilience and vitality. These powerful botanicals help calm inflammation, protect against daily stressors, and restore balance, resulting in a more radiant and even complexion. By addressing the underlying causes of skin concerns, they encourage healthy collagen production, strengthen the skin barrier, and soothe sensitivity.

As Hasina Khatib shares in Vogue, “Given the sensory nature of beauty products, some form of stress relief has always existed in skincare, but the year is 2021, and we aren’t just talking aromatic bath salts anymore. Therapeutic blends of adaptogens and skincare saviors have found their way into everything for inducing a state of zen for your skin.”

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Embrace the wisdom of Chinese medicine and adaptogenic herbs with Philosophia Botanica daily rituals, and experience skin that feels balanced, nourished, and truly revitalized from within.

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