Meet the Edelweiss extract (found in the INCI list as: Leontopodium Alpinum Flower/Leaf Extract), the first star of our Inci Book series, through which you will discover the wonderful world of cosmetic ingredients. This Alpine treasure offers powerful antioxidant properties and supports sun protection, while simultaneously hydrating and brightening the skin. Discover how Edelweiss can revolutionize your skincare and why it's worth reaching for!
Where Edelweiss extract comes from: From Alpine slopes to a cosmetic elixir
Edelweiss, known scientifically as Leontopodium alpinum, is a plant that has gained recognition not only for its unique beauty but also for its extraordinary properties, which make it an exceptional cosmetic raw material that we eagerly use at Söppö. But why is the extract obtained from its leaves and flowers so rich in biologically active compounds with diverse beneficial effects on the skin? To answer this question precisely, we must tell you a little about the conditions in which our protagonist grows, because the same properties that allow Edelweiss to survive on rocky slopes translate into its cosmetic applications.Mountain legends about Edelweiss
Edelweiss, known for its exceptional beauty and resilience to harsh mountain conditions, is surrounded by deeply rooted traditions and legends of mountain communities. It is a true icon of Alpine flora, and not just because of its charm.
In many mountain communities, Edelweiss is a symbol of pure love and courage. It is said that young men who tried to win the heart of their beloved had to go to dangerous slopes to pick this rare flower. Offering an Edelweiss to a woman was therefore a sign of true love and sacrifice. Edelweiss is also considered a talisman for luck and protection. Shepherds often carried it with them, believing it would protect them from misfortune in difficult mountain terrain. In some traditions, Edelweiss was used to protect homes from evil spirits and energies. Flowers were placed in windows or doors to ensure protection and attract good spirits.
These legends and beliefs highlight not only the beauty and rarity of Edelweiss but also the deeply rooted symbolism and meaning the flower held for mountain people. Edelweiss is therefore not only a valuable cosmetic ingredient but also an important cultural element of the regions where it grows.
Edelweiss extract - how does it affect the skin and your well-being?
Using cosmetics with Edelweiss extract brings many benefits to the skin. Regular use of such products can significantly improve skin elasticity and hydration. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, this extract is also an ideal solution for people with skin concerns such as acne or redness, supporting the skin's natural glow and health.
Daily skincare using cosmetics with Edelweiss extract also has a positive impact on psychological well-being. The awareness of taking care of oneself, benefiting from natural ingredients, and seeing visible skincare results can improve mood and increase self-esteem. Regular skincare rituals become moments of relaxation and self-love, supporting mental and emotional health. This is what we love most at Söppö!
Thanks to Edelweiss extract, you can enjoy healthy, radiant skin and better well-being every day.
Overview of scientific evidence for the effectiveness of Edelweiss in cosmetics: antioxidant and anti-aging properties, UV protection, anti-inflammatory action.
Edelweiss is a valued cosmetic ingredient due to its unique antioxidant, UV-protective, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties. But this isn't just empty talk. We have proof!
Antioxidant properties of Edelweiss extract
Studies conducted by Fischer et al. (2011) showed that Edelweiss extract exhibits high antioxidant activity. The presence of phenolic compounds effectively neutralizes free radicals, which are responsible for cell damage and skin aging. Free radicals, formed as a result of UV rays and environmental pollution, can lead to premature skin aging, wrinkles, and loss of elasticity. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, Edelweiss helps protect skin cells from these harmful factors.
Edelweiss extract and anti-aging properties
Edelweiss possesses strong anti-aging properties related to its ability to protect and regenerate skin cells. Edelweiss extract supports the production of collagen and elastin, key proteins responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. Both leontopodic acid, one of the main active components, and chlorogenic acid protect type III collagen from lipid peroxidation, which is crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance. Regular use of cosmetics with Edelweiss extract can significantly improve skin structure, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and improving elasticity. In studies conducted by Eldahshan et al. (2022), it was confirmed that Edelweiss extract contains compounds such as chlorogenic acid and luteolin, which inhibit the activity of elastase and hyaluronidase – enzymes contributing to the degradation of connective tissue and loss of skin elasticity. Furthermore, the luteolin contained in the extract improves water retention in the skin, resulting in better hydration and the smoothing of fine lines. These properties make Edelweiss an extremely effective ingredient in the fight against signs of aging, ensuring a healthy and youthful look.
Supporting UV protection - Edelweiss extract as an SPF booster
Edelweiss extract is also valued for its protective properties against UV radiation. Studies published in "Phytochemistry Reviews" stated that the plant develops defense mechanisms that protect its cells from damage caused by strong UV radiation at high altitudes. Consequently, Edelweiss extract is an effective ingredient that enhances the performance of sunscreens in cosmetics, helping to protect the skin from the harmful effects of solar radiation. However, it is worth emphasizing that Edelweiss extract itself is not a sunscreen but supports their action. This means that to ensure proper UV protection, you should use cosmetics with SPF filters, and Edelweiss extract can act as an additional booster, increasing the effectiveness of sun protection. Therefore, it is worth applying a face toner containing Edelweiss extract (and here we recommend our Glow and Aww toner) or an antioxidant serum with this ingredient under your SPF cream.
Anti-inflammatory action of Edelweiss extract
Edelweiss extract also exhibits strong anti-inflammatory properties. The active components of this plant, such as 5-lipoxygenase inhibitors, can significantly reduce skin inflammation. Research proves that Edelweiss helps soothe irritation and redness. Additionally, the extract's antibacterial properties inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, making Edelweiss an ideal ingredient for sensitive and irritation-prone skin.
All these properties make Edelweiss not only a symbol of beauty and purity but also an extremely effective cosmetic ingredient. Thanks to scientific evidence of its antioxidant, UV-protective, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory effects, Edelweiss extract has earned its place in the Söppö cosmetic formulas.
How is Edelweiss extract used in Söppö cosmetics?
At Söppö, Edelweiss translates its unique properties into simple daily care, helping to keep the skin radiant, hydrated, and protected from harmful external factors.
One of the most important applications of Edelweiss extract that inspired us to use it in Söppö cosmetics is its role as an SPF booster. Edelweiss extract contains powerful antioxidants that protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation. By acting as an SPF booster, Edelweiss increases the efficiency of sunscreens, supporting protection against harmful rays and preventing premature skin aging. It was also crucial that this extract works perfectly with other cosmetic raw materials, increasing their effectiveness while maintaining the skin's delicate balance. Edelweiss extract helps strengthen the moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative effects of other ingredients, making it ideal for products intended for the daily care of almost every skin type. This fits our brand's mission of creating inclusive cosmetics for various skin types that are effective and meet many different requirements simultaneously.
These properties led us to add Edelweiss extract to our flagship face toner-essence, "Glow and Aww." A toner is a "base" product. Used under a serum, under a night cream, under a sunscreen, and under whatever else you desire. it must not "interfere" with the cosmetics applied over it and should simultaneously support their action. Isn't it the perfect ingredient for this type of product? Our "Glow and Aww" toner-essence with Edelweiss extract is carefully formulated to provide a delicate balance between effectiveness and safety. As a result, these products are suitable for all skin types, including sensitive and irritation-prone skin, and help you maximize sun protection while providing a radiant appearance. Edelweiss in the "Glow and Aww" toner is a perfect combination of nature and science that supports your skin every day. Try our toner and discover how it can become a key element of your daily routine, providing your skin with the very best.
Glow and Aww face toner-essence:
- Hydration and Radiance: Thanks to its moisturizing and brightening properties, the "Glow and Aww" toner helps keep the skin properly hydrated and full of glow.
- SPF Booster: Using the toner under an SPF cream increases protection against the harmful effects of UV rays, better protecting the skin from photoaging.
- Soothing and Protection: The Edelweiss extract in the toner helps soothe irritation, protect against free radicals, and support a healthy skin appearance.
Edelweiss extract is an integral ingredient in Söppö cosmetics, offering numerous benefits for the skin. Its role as an SPF booster, its ability to collaborate with other ingredients, and its support in daily care make Söppö products unique and effective. We hope that you now know why Edelweiss deserves a place in your skincare routine. We encourage you to try our products with this exceptional ingredient and share your experiences. Let every day with Söppö be a step toward beauty.
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Sources:
- Fischer, F., Zufferey, E., Bourgeois, J.-M., Héritier, J., & Micaux, F. (2011). "UV-ABC screens of luteolin derivatives compared to edelweiss extract". Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology. doi:10.1016/j.jphotobiol.2011.01.005.
- Eldahshan, O.A., et al. (2022). "GC/MS Profiling, Anti-Collagenase, Anti-Elastase, Anti-Tyrosinase and Anti-Hyaluronidase Activities of a Stenocarpus sinuatus Leaves Extract". Plants. doi:10.3390/plants11070918.
- Dobner, M.J., Schwaiger, S., Jenewein, I.H., Stuppner, H. (2003). "Antibacterial activity of Leontopodium alpinum (Edelweiss)." Journal of Ethnopharmacology.
- Dobner, M.J., Sosa, S., Schwaiger, S., et al. (2004). "Anti-inflammatory activity of Leontopodium alpinum and its constituents." Planta Med.
