This article is a cutting edge look at the state of research in natural skin and body care industry.

Two recent studies examined the growing popularity of cosmetics made from herbs and other natural products.

Researchers from India formulated and evaluated herbal cosmetic creams for their ability to improve elasticity and hydration of skin.

The cosmetic cream formulations used extracts of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), turmeric roots (Curcuma longa), seeds of bemchi (Psoralea corylifolia), stinking cassia (Cassia tora), betel nut (Areca catechu) and pomegranate (Punica granatum), fruits of Embelica officinale, leaves of gotu kola (Centella asiatica), dried bark of cinnamon (Cinnamon zeylanicum) and fresh gel of aloe (Aloe vera) in varied concentrations.

The herbal extracts were incorporated in a cream base prepared with oil of Prunus amagdalus, seasame (Sesamum indicum), honey and other standard lotion ingredients.

The six-week study included 18 subjects (six males and 12 females, between 22 and 50 years); researchers applied the herbal cream to the back of their forearm.

The study found an increase in extensibility, firmness and improved skin hydration.

In a related study, researchers explained that nutracosmetics are an emerging class of health and beauty aid products that combine the benefits of nutracosmetical ingredients with the elegance, skin feel and delivery systems of cosmetics.

They reported that herbs and spices have been used in maintaining and enhancing human beauty because of their many beneficial properties, including protecting individuals from sun damage, aging and dryness; they also have antioxidant, anticellulite and antimicrobial effects.

The authors observed that compared with synthetic cosmetic products, herbal products are mild, biodegradable and have low toxicity profiles.

Currently, research is focusing on the development of newer approaches that could improve both the aesthetic appeal and performance of a cosmetic product.

For more information on integrative beauty treatments, please visit Natural Standard's Health & Wellness database.

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References:

1) Ahshawat MS, Saraf S, Saraf S. Preparation and characterization of herbal creams for improvement of skin viscoelastic properties. Int J Cosmet Sci. 2008 Jun;30(3):183-93. View Abstract.

2) Chanchal D, Swarnlata S. Novel approaches in herbal cosmetics. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2008 Jun;7(2):89-95. View Abstract.

3) Natural Standard Research Collaboration: The Authority on Integrative Medicine. www.naturalstandard.com. Copyright © 2008.