Willow Bark Extract
How does willow bark extract benefit your skin?
Benefits
Calming, Clarifying, Even Texture
About
Willow bark extract is from the bark of the beautiful and graceful willow trees. These unique trees naturally contain salicin, a chemical similar to both aspirin and salicylic acid. The bark’s powerful compounds naturally have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory benefits, making them a useful ingredient in holistic medicine and skincare. Willow bark extract for skin is also known to balance the complexion and oil production, gently exfoliate, and soothe irritation. The extract’s valuable powers are harnessed in Tatcha’s Matcha Cleanse, a water-based gel that lathers into a sensorial foam to wash away dirt, oil, and makeup. Rather than stripping skin, the Matcha Cleanse lightly hydrates, leaving the face clean and refreshed, not dry or stripped.
“ Willow bark extract for skin is also known to balance the complexion and oil production, gently exfoliate, and soothe irritation.
Science
While willow bark is a centuries-old remedy, relatively few studies have been published in modern science. But, a few clinical studies have shown impressive results. One specific study concluded that willow bark extract can visibly reduce the appearance of aging when applied topically. Researchers found “statistically significant improvements” in wrinkles, pore size, radiance, pigmentation, smoothness, and overall appearance in as little as one week (with significant improvements at the 12-week time point) when the extract was applied to skin consistently.
History
Willow bark has been used for medicinal purposes for over 3500 years. It was even readily available at the time of Hippocrates when individuals were advised to chew on the bark to reduce their fever and inflammation. The herb is still utilized today for the treatment of pain, arthritis, headaches, and inflammation. In the 1800s, salicin was used to develop two modern achievements: aspirin and salicylic acid. Willow bark is still preferred by some holistic practitioners today because while it appears to bring pain relief more slowly than aspirin, its effects may last longer.
Provenance
The willow trees include several different species native to Europe, Asia, and North America. There are a vast array of willow species, including white, black, purple, and weeping. Each variety has unique qualities and only some accumulate therapeutic levels of salicin.
Did You Know?
Those with sensitive skin might have greater success with willow bark extract products. Even in small concentrations salicylic acid can be linked to redness, excessive dryness, irritations, and flaking. The natural and gentler alternative to salicylic acid, willow bark extract has been proven to be far less irritating, even for those prone to sensitivity.
