While not new, adaptogens are taking over the internet! You have likely seen ads for teas and coffee alternatives touting the benefits of adaptogens. And now, they are having their moment in skincare. But just what are they, and how do they work? Adaptogens are a type of plant, herb, or derivative with the phenomenal ability to adapt to their environment and survive harsh weather conditions. These plant based, non-toxic extracts can be found worldwide and are making inroads in the health and wellness markets, as they help the body withstand stressors, normalize, balance, and strengthen the body, while improving well-being. High in antioxidants, they help eliminate free radicals that can cause oxidative stress and come in many forms, with Ashwaghanda, Kombucha, and Ginseng leading the way.

Adaptogens In Pevonia While coffees, teas, and supplements featuring adaptogens are ingested for medicinal or therapeutic purposes, they can also provide topical benefits. That’s why Pevonia utilizes the following adaptogens in many of our natural skin care products:

• Ashwagandha (Withania Sonifera), commonly referred to as Indian Ginseng, is a perfect example of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic adaptogenic herbs. When ingested, this antioxidant-rich herb is found to reduce stress and anxiety.

When used topically, it helps improve skin quality, enhance cellular performance, support immunity, and calm the effects of environmental aggressors, reducing irritation and redness, making it perfect for stressed skin. Findings from a recent study showed it significantly improved elasticity and moisture levels with reduced TEWL (transepidermal water loss) after 60 days of use. In our Hydrating Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40 it also provides blue light protection, shielding skin against HEV light from phones, computers, and tablets, plus protection from free radical damage. It also revitalizes skin cells, promoting smoother complexions.

• Kombucha originated in Russia and China and has been used in Eastern European beverages for many years.  Many people drink it for an improved feeling of well-being and better health, earning it the name “elixir of long life.”

Vitamin-rich Kombucha in the Lumafirm Repair Cream - Lift & Glow, derived from fermented Black Tea provides moisturizing, repairing, soothing, and rejuvenating effects on the skin. Studies show that consistent use stimulates lipid storage, helping skin appear visibly volumized and tighter-looking. Clinical testing also revealed more even skin tone, healthier glow, and smoothing by 16.2% after 14 days.
Ginseng is a root reported to have hundreds of phytochemicals that impart medicinal and health benefits. It is rich in ginsenosides, compounds found to have multiple effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-stimulating properties. Panax Ginseng in the BodyRenew™ Jasmine & Lavender Body Moisturizer helps prevent free radical damage and visible signs of aging, plus calms without irritation and redness. It also supports healthy Collagen and Hyaluronic Acid production, moisturizing, minimizing fine lines, and improving luminosity.
Licorice Root Extract (Dipotassium Glycyrrhizate) is another active with adaptogenic benefits used in Pevonia skin care. It features the antioxidant Glabridin, which is excellent for soothing without redness and irritation and helping even skin tone.It is available in our RS2 Collection, Stem Cells Phyto-Elite® Intensive Serum, Power Repair® Hydrating Toner, and our Lumafirm® Repair Mask available at elite spas offering Pevonia professional services.

• Centella Asiatica, also called Gotu Kola, Cica, or Asian Pennywort, is a mild adaptogenic herb with antioxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Used in the Pevonia RS2 Mask available at elite spas offering Pevonia professional services. It moisturizes, decongests, reduces swelling, and supports collagen production and skin repair.