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9 Weird Beauty Ingredients You're Going to See Everywhere In 2018

Experts weigh in on nine buzzworthy ingredients that are sure to set the industry ablaze.
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Plant Stem Cells
While stem cells aren't exactly new to skin care, expect plant stem cells (a vegan alternative) to set the skin care industry ablaze. Catie Wiggy, of MyChelle Dermaceuticals, says, "One exciting area of research is how plant stem cells can be used to target skin problems such as wrinkles, visible capillaries and sun damage." Since all areas of the body contain stem cells that are in a constant state of renewal, Wiggy says using products with plant stem cells can help replace the lost and dying cells caused when the skin endures damage.

Thanks to new technological advancements, it's safe to say that we'll be hearing more about this ingredient in 2018. "From the start, we saw amazing clinical results from using fruit stem cells in combination with antioxidant-rich grape and Vitamin C in our products," says Mimi Lu, Director of Product Development at Juice Beauty. "Not only is plant stem cell production sustainable through biotechnology, but there are a lot of great clinical studies showing the efficacy of these ingredients and how they help improve the vitality of skin."

Try Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-Wrinkle Moisturizer, $70, to keep skin hydrated and minimize fine lines.

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Turmeric
Starbucks may have unveiled a turmeric-flavored latte last summer, but don't think the spice is just another foodie-inspired beauty ingredient. Dr. Susan Bard, MD, of Manhattan Dermatology Specialists says that turmeric contains curcuminoids which have potent antioxidant and inflammatory properties, making this ingredient popular in acne, eczema and anti-aging beauty products.

Turmeric is already found in many brightening creams, serums and soaps. "Curcumin, an active compound in turmeric, is one of my most powerful tools in designing skin care products that tackle discoloration and damage from environmental aggressors," says Celeste Hilling, CEO of Skin Authority. "Because turmeric also has high ORAC levels (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity), recent studies show it can inhibit the progression of skin's cellular aging."

Try Skin Authority Beauty Infusion Turmeric & Blueberry For Brightening, $49, to give your skin a ridiculously gorgeous glow.

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Pearl
Asian beauty has already introduced us to exotic ingredients like snail mucin and pig collagen in the past few years, but expect pearl to take center stage in 2018. "Creams containing crushed pearl can act as great exfoliants," says Bard. "Pearls also contain nacre and conchiolin, which not only provide iridescence but also lighten by inhibiting tyrosinase, one of the enzymes involved in pigment production in the skin."

Using pearl in skin care isn't entirely new, as pearl extracts and infusions have been included in La Prairie and Tatcha serums and essences for years. But delivering brighter and healthier-looking skin isn't all pearl can do. "Pearl is a prized beauty tonic in Asian cultures due to the amino acids that are thought to be reparative, helping in tissue growth, wrinkle reduction, tightening, healing blemishes and discoloration," says Klein.

Try Sephora Collection Sleeping Mask - Pearl, $4, to brighten your skin while you snooze.

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Marula Oil
You may have already heard of marula oil but expect this ultra-hydrating ingredient to be added to more products this year. "Marula oil hit big in 2017 and it looks like it will continue in 2018 due to its potent formula rich in fatty acids like omega 9-oleic and omega 6-linoleic," Klein says. "Marula oil helps hydrate, reduce redness, improve skin elasticity and reduce transepidermal water loss that leads to soft and smoother skin."

Try Drunk Elephant Virgin Marula Luxury Facial Oil, $72, to drench skin and split ends in hydrating moisture.

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Kigelia Trees
Originating from Africa, Kigelia trees (also known as sausage trees) are found in the Serengeti region, giving this beauty ingredient some exotic appeal. "African healers use kigelia for a variety of skin conditions and the ingredient is said to boast powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties," Klein says.

Kigelia can be used as an alternative to harsh benzoyl peroxides and retinoids, says Dr. Elizabeth Trattner. The ingredient is great for those with acne, as it's rich in flavonoids and phenolic acid, which have both antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

High-end skin care brands like Lancer Skincare The Method: Body Nourish, $65, already use kigelia in their product formulas to beat discoloration and uneven skin tone. However, expect other skin care brands to catch on to the Kigelia trend as a gentle, yet effective, approach to acne.

BY COURTNEY LEIVA | FEB 2, 2018 | SHARES
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