Goji berry benefits for skin are seriously impressive. But unlike hyaluronic acid or retinol—two ubiquitous ingredients in the skincare world—it’s safe to say that goji berry extract is still flying relatively under the radar. We’re set on changing that and finally giving goji berries the credit they deserve; so much that we made ‘em one of the star ingredients in our new Odyssey Lip Oil Gloss.
What exactly are the skincare benefits of goji berry extract though? We tapped two experts for the lowdown. Ahead, everything you need to know about the anything-but-ordinary berry.
What is goji berry extract?
You’ve likely seen them sprinkled atop smoothie bowls or in trail mix, but what are goji berries, actually? According to cosmetic chemist Ginger King, “they’re a type of red fruit traditionally used in Chinese medicine for [immune support] and for good eye health due to their rich content in vitamin A.” Board-certified dermatologist, Sejal Shah, M.D., adds, “goji berry extract is derived from the goji berry fruit, which is native to Asia.”
The superfood is packed with nutrients and fatty acids, giving it a range of different health benefits. In addition to vitamin A, goji berry extract is also very high in vitamin C, so it possesses powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Antioxidants (like lutein, lycopene, and selenium) aid in thwarting free radical damage caused by environmental stressors like UV rays and pollution. Protection from the aforementioned oxidative stress helps keep skin cells strong, healthy, and calm.
Goji berry extract also contains amino acids, which help to maintain a healthy production of core skin proteins collagen and elastin—both of which are super important when it comes to keeping skin hydrated, smooth, and plump. In other words, this little berry is a powerhouse ingredient for healthy skin.
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How is goji berry extract used in cosmetics?
“Goji berry extract can help to soothe and calm skin while helping keep it looking young and healthy,” says King in regards to why it’s such an attractive ingredient for the overall health and well-being of your skin. “It is used in skincare for its antioxidant, anti-aging, and moisturizing properties.” This, of course, is due to its high content of essential vitamins and amino acids.
You can currently find goji berry extract in skincare products like serums, creams, face masks, and cleansers—however, it’s still an up-and-coming ingredient; one we definitely expect to see a lot more of in the coming years. Chat with your dermatologist to find out the best way to add products with goji berry extract to your skincare routine.
What are the benefits of goji berry extract?Because it offers superior antioxidant protection, goji berry extract benefits the skin in multiple ways. “Antioxidants in goji berries help protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, UV light, and other environmental aggressors,” reiterates Dr. Shah. “They also reduce inflammation in the skin, and by [doing that], they allow it to repair itself and help correct visible skin damage, improving both texture and tone.” Goji berry extract can be especially helpful for those struggling with hyperpigmentation or dullness, as it helps to fade dark spots and brighten skin. It’s also ideal for anyone looking to stave off premature signs of aging because it’s loaded with vitamin A, which is famous for its ability to keep skin looking youthful, bright, and firm. Overall, much like hyaluronic acid or niacinamide, goji berry extract is a great multi-purpose ingredient that can help improve skin health in both the short and long term. Which Milk Makeup Products contain goji berry extract?So glad you asked! After discovering the major skin benefits goji berry extract has, we decided to make it a key power player in our brand-new Odyssey Lip Oil Gloss. The innovative skin-loving formula acts as a hybrid oil/gloss that drenches lips in soothing hydration and high shine, leaving your pout plump, smooth, and soft all day long. No more dry skin. No more dull lips. |
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A single swipe of Odyssey instantly fades the appearance of fine lines on your lips while you wear it. It’s also worth noting that the skin on our lips is thinner and therefore more susceptible to premature signs of aging—goji berry extract can help slow the process down due to its ability to enhance collagen production.
You have eight stunning, semi-sheer pigments and shimmer shades of Odyssey to choose from, and unlike some glosses and oils, our formula is long-lasting so you don’t have to worry about constantly reapplying. However, you may want to—that’s a side-effect of it smelling so darn delicious.
Meet the Experts
Ginger King (she/her) is the founder & CEO at Grace Kingdom Beauty, a cosmetic product development firm in New Jersey specializing in helping create beauty brands from concept to launch. She has been the keynote speaker for brand launches and has spoken at various trade conferences on product development and In-Cosmetics on product innovation. Ginger is an oft-quoted beauty expert and has been on radio and video chat with leading beauty magazines as well as a regular TV appearances on Good Day Sacramento. She has been quoted by over 35 top beauty magazines such as Allure, Self, Marie Claire, Harper’s Bazaar, Shape, Teen Vogue, and Women’s Health.
Sejal Shah, M.D. (she/her) is a board-certified dermatologist and the medical director and founder at Smarter Skin Dermatology in Manhattan, New York. An expert in the latest treatments and techniques, Dr. Shah received her medical degree from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, where she is currently a faculty member in the Department of Dermatology. She’s the go-to expert for many top media outlets, including Refinery29, Allure, InStyle, and Self.
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