 (1).png){kind=spacer}
3 months ago
15
Your next facial could have a delicious twist, as scientists are looking to turn potato waste into 'skincare gold'.
As unlikely as it sounds, scientists say that potato shaws – the above–ground stems and leaves of a potato plant, traditionally discarded after harvest – contain key ingredients for cosmetics and makeup.
This includes solanesol – a compound vital for producing coenzyme Q10 – and vitamin K2.
Q10 is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy, youthful–looking skin, which is often used in serums and moisturisers.
Meanwhile, vitamin K2 has been linked to collagen and calcium metabolism, and is usually sold in tablet form.
Cosmetic companies currently source solanesol mainly from tobacco plants.
However, demand for this ingredient has risen exponentially in recent decades.
If successful, the project, led by the University of Aberdeen, could mean the likes of moisturisers and face masks could include ingredients sourced from spuds.
Potato shaws are the above–ground stems and leaves of a potato plant, which are traditionally discarded after harvest (file image)
Researchers are looking to turn potato waste into 'skincare gold' that can be used in cosmetics. Pictured: Harvesting seed potatoes in Scotland
Previous studies have already hinted at the skincare potential of the humble potato.
One paper, published in 2019, found that treating skin with potato peel extract significantly increased the expression of collagen – a protein that causes wrinkles and sagging when depleted.
'These results suggest that potato peel extract could be a novel and effective antiaging material,' the researchers concluded.
Potatoes are also a popular DIY skincare ingredient for concerns like hyperpigmentation, dark circles and acne.
The humble spud has even been said to help smooth away crows' feet when applied mashed and mixed with lemon juice.
Actress Olivia Munn has previously revealed she eats Japanese sweet potatoes in order to keep her skin looking young.
Sweet potato contains betocarotene, a nutrient the body immediately converts into vitamin A which protects skin from harmful UV rays and other environmental stressors.
It is also rich in vitamins C and E which boost the production of collagen, tightening skin and infusing it with a bright, healthy glow.
Q10 is already used in a range of cosmetic products, including this day cream from Nivea. It is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy, youthful–looking skin
Bizarre skincare ingredients already in use
- Placenta
- Semen
- Bird poop
- Sheep sebum
- Marijuana
- Bee venom
- Goat milk
- Fish scales
- Tree sap
The researchers say their initiative could create new income streams for Scottish farmers while reducing agricultural waste.
With 12,800 hectares of seed potatoes grown in Scotland, the industry could yield up to 120 tonnes of solanesol per year.
Grampian Growers, a farmer–owned cooperative based on the east coast of Scotland, said the project is 'particularly significant' for the potato industry.
Professor Heather Wilson, Chair in Immunology, at University of Aberdeen, added: 'Exploring the quality and yield of solanesol extracted from locally sourced potato shaws—and evaluating its potential applications across the cosmeceutical and related industries represents an exciting and impactful area of research.'
Some skincare brands already use bizarre ingredients in their products – including placenta.
Snail slime, bird poop, sheep sebum and marijuana have also made into lotions and eye creams.
Scientists also recently discovered 'natural Botox' in bee venom that can de–age the face in less than a month.
The compound's key component, the melittin peptide, has been shown to trigger the skin's natural repair mechanisms by mimicking a controlled injury – prompting increased production of collagen, elastic fibres and hyaluronic acid.
Earlier this year, high street brand Boots launched a new TikTok–inspired range featuring 'trending ingredients' such as lion's mane, ashwaganda and sea moss.
The range, called HABI, features a mix of ingredients that promise to boost energy, provide calm or help people 'get in the zone and going with the flow'.
One is lion's mane – a large, white, shaggy medicinal mushroom. It contains bioactive substances that are thought to have beneficial effects on the body – especially the brain, heart and gut.
Ashwagandha, meanwhile, is an evergreen shrub that grows in Asia and Africa.
The roots and leaves of the plant have been turned into powders or extracts and used in traditional medicine for centuries and it is commonly promoted for stress and anxiety reduction.
What skin regime is best for the menopause?
Skin problems are a huge issue during the menopause. And, although life expectancy continues to rise, the average age of the menopause has changed relatively little over the past century.
This means there are far more women suffering with skin issues associated with the menopause for a much longer period of time.
In the run-up to the menopause, or ‘perimenopausal’ period, women will notice changes in their skin. This starts from about the mid-40s onwards, when oestrogen levels start to decline.
Use a daily broad-spectrum SPF 15–30, to help with menopausal skin. Pictured is EltaMD's Broad-Spectrum SPF 30
For some women, this can lead to the development of acne. As oestrogen falls, levels of male hormones, which women also produce, become proportionately more dominant, which can drive oil gland activity.
Others, however, may start to notice dryness and red patches. Once women reach the menopause, the body goes into a relatively oestrogen-deficient state. Lack of oestrogen is the most common cause of post-menopausal skin issues.
Oestrogen is what keeps our hair and skin youthful, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may help maintain skin elasticity, moisture and thickness. However, not everyone is suitable for, or wants to take, HRT, and this decision needs to be made after discussion with your doctor.
Common problems:
Skin dryness
There is a reduction in skin metabolism. Skin functions less effectively as a barrier, resulting in increased water loss. This will leave the skin vulnerable to the elements. Alongside this, there is reduced oil and lipid production.
Wrinkles
After the menopause, women’s skin thickness decreases by 1.13 per cent per year owing to falling collagen levels. In the first five years after menopause, collagen content is thought to decrease by as much as 30 per cent. Collagen is needed for the skin’s support structure. Hormones and sun damage work in synchrony to promote wrinkles and sagging.
There are some products which blend antioxidants and UV protection, such as Heliocare 360 Oil-Free
Increased fragility
As the skin thins with age, there is also loss of fat and connective tissue support around blood vessels which makes them more susceptible to injury. Oestrogen has a protective role in wound healing and reduced levels after menopause mean the skin takes longer to heal following trauma.
Redness/sensitive skin
Redness can occur due to hot flushes associated with the menopause. Rosacea can also develop for the first time, leading to redness and sensitivity.
Facial hair
Straggly facial hair often starts to appear on the chin and upper lip due to a change in the ratio of oestrogen to male hormones in the bloodstream. Hairs can be tweezed, plucked, threaded or waxed, or removed with electrolysis or laser if they are dark.
Getting skincare right after the menopause is important. Using a retinoid-based product at night will boost collagen production and an antioxidant serum will limit potential damage to already fragile skin.
Here are my top tips for dealing with menopausal skin:
- Choose cream cleansers for dry skin rather than foaming washes.
- Hydrate the skin and moisturise with rich creams rather than gels morning and evening.
- Use a daily broad-spectrum SPF 15–30.
- Keep up with regular exercise to boost blood flow to the skin.
- Exfoliate regularly to help fade brown marks.
