Calendula in Cosmetics: Heals Skin Naturally With Its Dual Benefits In Sun Protection
Calendula, also known as marigold, is a very powerful ingredient in the cosmetic industry, which has many benefits and is gentle to all skin types. Calendula officinalis, with its bright golden petals, is more than just a pretty flower. It has been valued for its healing benefits in herbal medicine and skincare for hundreds of years. In this blog post, we will dig deep into how to use calendula for the skin, the benefits of calendula for skin whitening and healing, calendula oil benefits for skin, and some DIY calendula recipes for the skin.
What are the Benefits of Calendula?
Calendula, or marigold as most people know, is a beautiful flower and exceptional in its healing properties. It is a natural skin healer. Not only in this modern world but calendula's use in the cosmetic industry is traced back centuries. Calendula is very beneficial for soothing inflammation and promoting healing. Calendula is beneficial for the skin because it contains flavonoids, carotenoids, and linoleic acid. These components help reduce inflammation and keep the skin moisturized.
There are also many antioxidants present in calendula. Calendula’s inflammatory properties are likely because of the flower’s high concentration of flavonoids. These stop the enzymes that cause inflammation in the skin. By this, the plant is popular for its excellent effect on treating eczema, irritations and other inflammatory conditions. It also has antibacterial properties that can prevent skin infections beforehand. Calendula contains essential oils and active compounds that effectively destroy bacteria and fungi, helping to keep the skin healthy and clean.
Another beneficial role of calendula in skin health is sun protection. The plant's flowers contain high levels of powerful antioxidants such as β-carotene, lutein, and lycopene. These substances help protect against oxidative stress and reduce the damage caused by UV rays to the skin. These antioxidants protect the skin against sunburn and prevent long-term damage like skin cancer and photoaging. Calendula compounds work hand in hand with other SPF ingredients, improving the efficiency of the cosmetic product.
Calendula helps sunscreen last longer by protecting its molecules from breaking down in the sun. This keeps the sunscreen effective all day. Calendula is also great for after-sun products because it soothes burnt skin, reduces swelling, speeds up healing, and helps prevent the skin from peeling or drying. This maintains the skin's health and moisture.
How do you use Calendula for different skin types?
Calendula is gentle, so it can be used by people of all skin types, from oily to sensitive. For people with oily skin, it helps the skin regulate sebum production, and its antibacterial properties can help the skin get rid of acne. Its anti-flammatory properties make it very beneficial for sensitive skin, too.
Calendula is great for dry and mature skin because it hydrates and helps increase collagen production. This keeps the skin moist and flexible, which makes it appear younger and more glowing. Calendula can be applied in the form of oil, petals, and extracts, making it a great ingredient for its flexibility in any skincare routine. Calendula can naturally enhance and protect skin health, whether you use products containing calendula or make own treatments at home. It effectively helps the skin cope with environmental challenges.
DIY Calendula Recipes for Home Skincare
Calendula can be easily added to any homemade skin care product, which can help individuals harness its effects directly from their home. The DIY skincare remedies below are tailored to individual needs, and pure calendula is used to naturally and effectively improve skin health.
Calendula Infused Oil
Calendula oil is created by soaking dried calendula petals in a base oil like almond or jojoba. This mixture is left for several weeks in a cool, dark area. You can directly apply this oil to the face or use it as a base in any face or lip care product. This soothes irritated skin, acts as a moisturizer, and promotes healing.
Calendula Water Toner
Calendula can also make a soothing skin toner. Simply simmer the petals in water, strain the liquid, and use it on face. This toner will help soothe and moisturize skin.
Calendula Face Mask
This is made from Calendula oil, clay, and honey. Apply this weekly to clean skin, moisturize and reduce skin inflammation.
Precautions to follow before using Calendula
Calendula is generally safe for most of the people. However, take these precautions just to be safe. For people with sensitive skin, it is important to take a patch test before using calendula-induced products. This is because calendula comes from the Asteraceae family, and if people are allergic to plants from this family, there is a high chance that it can affect the skin health.
Some people might be allergic to certain products, showing signs like redness, itching, or a rash. If this happens, it's best to stop using the product and talk to a healthcare provider. Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women should talk to a healthcare provider before using calendula because there isn't much research on how it affects them. Except for these, there is nothing to be afraid of about calendula, as it is generally safe to use daily.
