6 Rising Plant-Based Beauty Ingredients

2. Maple Sap

Tree sap is the venous system that delivers nutrients from root to branch, so it’s not completely surprising it’s packed with vitamins, antioxidants and amino acids – all of which are also skin-loving. Sap mimics the inbuilt moisturisers found in your skin, enhances your sunscreen and balances melanin production, which reduces sunspots and acne scars. It’s worth noting that not all tree sap is created equal though, with one of the most effective types being maple sap, which is reputed to be the strongest at delivering results deep into your dermis.

3. Kakadu Plum

Home to the world’s highest levels of vitamin C – holding up to 100 times more vitamin C than an orange – this tiny but mighty fruit makes for a powerful antioxidant. While it’s been used for centuries by Australian indigenous tribes as a medicine to reduce swelling, it also has some major skincare superpowers: fading scars, fighting acne, brightening, firming and protecting skin from environmental damage such as pollution and UV damage.

4. Chia Seed

While most of us have jumped on board chia seeds for our inner health, when extracted, it makes for an excellent topical emollient in oil form too. As one of the world’s richest sources of skin-loving omega-3, it protects against the impact of free radicals – making it great for anti-ageing – as well as working as an anti-inflammatory to calm red, irritated skin.

5. Bearberry

Turning up more and more regularly in skincare products, bearberry is an all-natural brightening ingredient. The edible berry (a favourite food of bears, hence its name) contains a molecule called arbutin, which works in a very similar way to other types of hydroquinone beloved in the beauty world for their ability to fade dark spots. While bearberry isn’t quite as potent as its chemical version, it’s much gentle and safer, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin.

6. Pomegranate

The ancient fruit is trending as a skincare ingredient thanks to its rich source of vitamins, particularly B, C and K, as well as a punicic acid – a potent skincare powerhouse that minimises the appearance of fine lines and boosts collagen production. As well as being a great skin nutrient, pomegranate enzymes also make for a super gentle exfoliant – making it a favourite amongst those with sensitive skin.

Makeup & Hair Stylist Becky Kwan

Model Doreen Merkel