These superfoods are not only good for your health, they do wonders for your skin as well.
Don’t write off these humble fungi – research shows mushroom extracts help in boosting your body’s immunity! In particular, maitake mushrooms have also been found to contain natural compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage. Shu Uemura Tsuya Skin Youthful Vita-Glow Activator, S$118 to 148, is formulated with it, and will keep you looking fresh-faced all day.
Ginseng has long been revered in traditional oriental medicine for its exceptional healing benefits. The secret lies in its ginsenosides, naturally-occurring compounds that are believed to have antioxidant and immunity-boosting properties. Revitalise tired skin with a spritz of Origins GinZing Energy Boosting Treatment Lotion Mist, S$42, that has panax ginseng and caffeine to refresh and hydrate.
They may be little, but these dark purple berries are big in vitamins A, C, and E, all of which are known antioxidants. Together with acerola, acai berries form the key ingredients in Laneige Vitamin Brightening Cleansing Water, S$32 (cotton not included), a lightweight makeup remover that doubles up as a skincare product to reduce pigmentation spots over time.
Also known as wolfberries, these pint-sized fruits are packed with beta-carotene, an antioxidant that gives it its dark reddish-orange hue. Lancome Energie De Vie Overnight Recovery Sleeping Mask ($95) is made with it to revive fatigued skin. Once applied, the formula breaks into tiny drops of water to cool skin by 1.8 deg C for a burst of freshness.
This marine plant grows in nutrient-rich waters, and has been hailed as an anti-ageing powerhouse thanks to its high iodine and antioxidant content. At the heart of La Mer The Cleansing Micellar Water, S$175, Tangs at Tang Plaza) is a miracle broth of fermented sea kelp that helps to restore and repair skin. Take away the day’s dirt, makeup and grime with just a swipe of this gentle no-rinse formula.
This grain has steadily gained popularity in recent years to be one of the most prized carbs around. Recently, Kiehl’s scientists also discovered that quinoa husk extracts help speed up skin cell turnover. Find it in Kiehl’s Dermatologist Solutions Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate, S$99, – apply this before bed to gently exfoliate skin overnight for a smoother, baby-soft complexion by morning.
This medicinal Chinese herb is a good source of antioxidant flavonoids, has antibacterial properties, and helps to curb inflammation. It’s one of the superstars in Guerlain Midnight Secret Late Night Recovery Treatment, S$40, Tangs at Tang Plaza, – use this before bed if you’re having a late night to look refreshed and luminous by morning.
Protect cells against oxidative damage by incorporating green tea into your beauty routine. It contains polyphenols, potent antioxidants that help to curb skin inflammation. Experience its benefits in Dermalogica Skin Refining Masque, S$83, Asterspring, an effective treatment that purifies and controls overactive sebum production.
Chockfull of antioxidants, raspberries help to reduce the damaging effects of free radicals. Nourish your pout with Clarins Instant Light Lip Comfort Oil in 02 Raspberry, S$36, that’s also got hazelnut and jojoba oil to deeply hydrate
Aveda Tulasara Calm Concentrate, S$105, contains organic ginger, a traditional Ayurvedic herb that helps to stimulate blood circulation and make skin more resilient. This soothing elixir will also reduce the appearance of redness over time.
As a rich source of polyphenols and vitamin C, pomegranate extracts help support skin cell regeneration and collagen production. They’re the reason water-based exfoliating gel Auolive Bright & Fair, Perfect Care Radiance Revealer ($58, www.auolive.com) effectively brightens and softens your mien.
Awaken your senses with the antimicrobial peppermint oil in Garnier Invigorating Daily Scrub ($12.90, leading pharmacies). This exfoliator helps unclog pores for a clearer complexion.
Text: Dawn Chen / Shape Additional Reporting: Arissa Ha