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"Adaptogens" Is Skin Care's Buzziest New Word, Here's Why

Everything you need to know about adaptogens and how to incorporate them into your routine
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The adaptogen: Prickly pear cactus extract
What it does: According to Kraffert, prickly pear cactus extract (aka opuntia ficus-indica extract) is "a natural humectant rich in antioxidants including flavonoids and vitamins C, A and E." He also notes that it has anti-inflammatory properties as well as anti-cancer effects. Suffice it to say, there's a reason why cactus-based products have been all the rage lately.

Interested? Try: Huxley Secret of Sahara Light and More Oil, $58

Korean skin care brand Huxley actually has a whole line based around prickly pear cacti — and this serum is absolutely packed with the beneficial adaptogenic ingredient.

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The adaptogen: Turmeric
What it does: Turmeric has certainly made the rounds as a popular dietary supplement and skin care ingredient (just ask Priyanka Chopra!) and it's easy to see why. Like ashwagandha, it's long been used in Ayurvedic medicine and boasts natural anti-inflammatory properties.

Interested? Try: Kora Organics Turmeric Brightening & Exfoliating Mask, $48

This mask utilizes turmeric to help brighten skin tone while calming redness and providing antioxidant protection. The mask also contains skin-clearing ingredients like aspen bark and papaya enzymes to gently exfoliate the skin, revealing a glowier complexion.

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The adaptogen: White ginseng
What it does: White ginseng is thought to have invigorating effects and has traditionally been used to strengthen the immune system, while also helping to ward off stress.

Interested? Try: Sulwhasoo Snowise Brightening Serum, $200

Though pricey, this serum is pure joy to use. It has a lightweight gel texture that hydrates like a treat, while the white ginseng in the formula helps boost radiance.

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The adaptogen: Holy basil
What it does: Holy basil, or tulsi, is yet another Ayurvedic favorite. It's been shown to help regulate stress and bolster the immune system, while also offering protection from pollutants. It also happens to be anti-microbial (which is always a plus).

Interested? Try: Origins Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Mega-Mushroom Relief & Resilience Soothing Treatment Lotion, $34

This soothing toner actually has a lot of adaptogens in its formula — in addition to holy basil, it also features ingredients like reishi and chaga mushroom extracts and turmeric. As such, it works nicely to calm irritated skin, while also adding in a nice dose of hydration.

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The adaptogen: Phellinus linteus
What it does: Popular in traditional Korean medicine, this adaptogenic mushroom extract is one for the books. According to Kraffert, it "possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has been recently shown to provide benefit for those with eczema." He also notes that there's research showing it to be a promising anti-cancer ingredient.

Interested? Try: Leegeehaam Grow Hyal B5 Toner, $30

Along with humectant ingredients, like hyaluronic acid and vitamin B5, and other botanicals, like centella asiatica extract, the Phellinus linteus extract in this formula helps soothe, hydrate, and plump your complexion.

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BY ROSIE NARASAKI | AUG 15, 2018 | SHARES
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