Hibiscus

 It's not only beautiful, but it's known for helping to lift and firm the appearance of skin – the “antiwrinkle” effect, giving the skin radiance

Science

According to Natural Medicine's Comprehensive Database, "The applicable part of hibiscus is the flower, calyx or sepal, leaves, stems, and seeds. Sepal extracts contain significant amounts of vitamin C, anthocyanins, and polyphenols. The sepal also contains the highest concentration of water-soluble antioxidants."

They go on to state that the seed and leaf of hibiscus also contain significant amounts of vitamin E and that hibiscus seeds contain the highest concentration of lipid-soluble antioxidants.

Hibiscus also has antioxidants similar to those found in bilberry, cranberry, and red wine. 

benefits to the skin

Hibiscus has a sort of magical reputation in skincare because it is a natural source of alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs). Chemical forms of these acids can be overly harsh and damaging to the skin, but natural sources such as those in hibiscus can help provide the same benefits without the harsh drawbacks. AHAs are known to help exfoliate, control oily skin and clogged pores, all of which can encourage fresher, younger, and smoother looking skin. They also increase moisture and firm your skin's look. The natural acids present in Hibiscus help to purify your skin by breaking down dead skin and increasing cell turnover, they can even help to control acne breakouts. Unlike harsh synthetic forms of these acids which can strip your skin of its natural oils, the organic acids from Hibiscus bring your skin back in balance for a naturally gorgeous, glowing complexion. 

Hibiscus evens skin tone. One of the visible signs of skin ageing is the appearance of hyperpigmentation or age spots. Age spots can occur due to ultraviolet radiation exposure, excess melanin production and genetics. Due to the slightly exfoliating effect of the organic acids found in the plant, including citric acid and malic acid, Hibiscus helps to speed up cell turnover, resulting in a more even-looking skin tone.

So what makes this a “botox” plant? What helps give radiant skin?

Hibiscus is deservedly one of the most powerful anti-ageing plant actives; hibiscus is known to increase skin elasticity to give a stunning natural youth-boost. With the incredible ability to inhibit the activity of the enzyme elastase, which is responsible for breaking down our skin’s precious elastin, hibiscus actively combats the ageing process by firming and lifting your skin

Then there is the fact hibiscus is rich in antioxidants – anthocyanocides in particular. Antioxidants are proven to help fight skin-damaging free radicals which spawn when pollutants such as ultraviolet radiation and traffic pollution make contact with the skin and can result in premature skin ageing. Hibiscus, therefore, protects the skin from these environmental stressors. Anthocyanocides also have slightly astringent properties, helping to reduce the appearance of large pores for a smoother complexion. In effect, helping pores appear smaller. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect and can help to soothe inflamed skin, making hibiscus suitable for those prone to very sensitive skin.

Lastly, hibiscus has a naturally high mucilage content, a sticky substance produced by plants that help with the storage of water and food. This high mucilage content makes for a great natural skin moisturiser that is gentle on sensitive skin. This high mucilage content of hibiscus also enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture, which is a key factor in retaining a youthful complexion. The naturally moisture rich qualities of Hibiscus helps skin stay hydrated, soft and supple for longer, keeping dry, dull skin at bay.