Cell Di-vision
While they may sound synthetic, degenerative, or like something you’d see on the SYFY Channel, stem cells are not made in a lab, but are naturally found in plants — such as apple skins and snow algae from the Swiss Alps — and their regenerative powers are being pumped into the latest beauty products.
Plant stem cells act similarly to the ones found in our own organs and tissues, providing a steady supply of precursor cells to maintain plant vitality.
According to Ashleigh Kehrt, Image Skincare Corporate Educator, “Plant stem cells are becoming more popular in skincare because of their self-renewal functions. Some of the key benefits are that they have been shown to protect the skin against UV Damage, combat signs of aging, support collagen and elastin, and soothe and firm skin.”
Other cosmetics brands — such as the organic brand Juice Beauty, which uses a resveratrol-rich, grape-based formula infused with fruit stem cells — are leveraging the power of plants. While award-winning, London-based MZ Skin — the byproduct of oculoplastic surgeon and leading facial aesthetician Dr. Maryam Zamani — is infusing placenta and phyto stem cells into products to boost skin collagen and elastin production.
And local beauty brand, A‘ala, meaning “fragrant” and “royal” in Hawaiian, is the first Hawaiian natural beauty line incorporating sustainably produced plant stem cells. They create their MOLOKINI SC extract used to make their products from the stem cells found in Hawaiian Portulaca, or portulaca molokiniensis: a rare, endemic succulent to the Hawaiian Islands touted for its moisturizing and anti-aging benefits.
Below, we’ve compiled a stellar selection of beauty booty boasting the power of plants and botanicals.