Blueberry extract from superfood to a superior skincare ingredient

There are so many benefits to blueberry extract. 

No doubt, many of us are familiar with the concept of blueberries as a superfood. However, it’s probably not so well known that blueberries are exceptionally good for the skin’s health and appearance, this is probably why we are starting to see them pop up within new generation skincare formulations.

Before we share with you some of the main skin benefits of blueberries, here is a brief review of what is so special about these little berries.

Blueberries are commonly referenced as a healthy nutritiously rich fruit because of their high concentration of potent antioxidants. These tasty treats draw their dark blue colour from a pigment called anthocyanins, which also function as powerful antioxidants, working to slow the signs of ageing, moderate inflammation and protect against sun damage.

Anthocyanins found in blueberries also assist in the body’s protection from stress and pollution, as well as support collagen production.

Blueberries have a high oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) the measurement is used to evaluate the antioxidant levels of various foods. Due to blueberries’ high ORAC score, their level of antioxidants can neutralise substantial levels of free radicals. As we know neutralising free radicals, and antioxidants can also contribute to maintaining hydration levels in the skin and body as well as reducing inflammation.

Here is a quick look at how blueberries can benefit the skin:

Rich in vitamin A

Blueberries are rich in retinoids, found in vitamin A, that help the skin in numerous ways, from preventing breakouts and promoting healing to natural moisturising and bolstering the skin’s immune system. Research has revealed that vitamin A helps reduce and prevent sun damage.

It acts as a powerful antioxidant, even helping to protect the skin against sunburn (although the importance of SPF is still warranted). However, studies now support that vitamin A helps to shield the skin from blue light exposure, which contributes to ageing skin.

Source of pro-retinol

Blueberry extract is also a source of pro-retinol which helps to reduce the appearance of the tell-tale signs of ageing: fine lines and wrinkles. Combined with the linoleic content which strengthens the skin’s natural barrier, blueberry extract hydrates and plumps the skin, making it look youthful and radiant. Pro-retinol also helps to protect the skin from UV damage and, even better, it doesn’t have the same peeling and redness side effects that retinol often brings. 

Source of Omega 9, topically

Blueberry extract is rich in Omega 9 which is an excellent ingredient carrier. Its presence enables other active ingredients to penetrate the top layer of the skin and get to work. 

Protects against oxidative stress

Blueberries, when ingested, protect against oxidative stress. It is believed that the same is true when their extract is used topically. Free radicals are neutralised and the external pollutants that we expose ourselves to just by going about everyday life are minimised. Indeed, blueberries are very rich in antioxidants, which are known to fight premature ageing.

Collagen boosting

Blueberries are also notably high in anthocyanin. This compound helps aid collagen production in the skin. Studies show that applying anthocyanin to the skin lowers the breakdown of collagen, whilst also increasing collagen production. Alongside this, blueberries are notoriously high in vitamin C which, as we know is important for collagen production. 

Calms and soothes acne

Studies also confirm that blueberries have effective anti-inflammatory properties against acne-related inflammation. Similarly, the same antioxidant anti-inflammatory process can help to reduce oxidative stress-related eczema and psoriasis flares.

Improved healing

Blueberries are bursting with lots of other nutrients including vitamins C and K which are essential for skin healing. So, whether you’re tackling skin inflammation or treating a mild skin lesion blueberry extract in your skincare will help support skin repair exactly where it is needed.

The Power of ingesting Blueberries

Not just as a topical, blueberries when ingested are linked to better heart health largely because they help with improving blood circulation. Adding blueberries to your diet can also improve heart health, which is a key step in achieving healthy skin. A healthy heart and circulatory system pump blood throughout the body to deliver oxygen and key nutrients to cells and remove waste along the way.

Our skin needs these nutrients and oxygen to heal and repair damage caused by environmental stressors. When incorporated into someone’s diet, blueberries can provide the necessary tools needed to support the body’s regeneration and repair of damage.

The nutrients found in blueberries also help with skin inflammation related to eczema and psoriasis.

Blueberries are so versatile, add them to a smoothy, mix them with porridge, sprinkle them on top of pancakes or even on your salad for a delicious and nutritious treat.

As a skincare professional, why not recommend both the benefits of ingesting blueberries and their benefits when included in a skincare product to address issues such as redness, signs of ageing, inflammation, dry skin and skin discolouration.