There's no need to scour the globe for highly effective natural skincare ingredients because they're right here on our doorstep. The leaves, berries, seeds and roots that make up Australian native extracts are rapidly earning a name for themselves in the organic and natural skincare industry and it's all because of their ability to nourish and regenerate skin cells.
Much research has been undertaken testing the potency of Australian native extracts and vast quantities of vitamin C, E and other antioxidants have been found. When applied to the skin they can help offer protection from the sun, hydrate and condition the skin, and provide anti-inflammatory benefits among others.
With Australia Day just around the corner it seems timely to celebrate our native plants and fruits in skincare. Here are the top five to look out for on the back of natural skincare packages.
Kakadu plum
Hailing from the Northern Territory, Kakadu plum is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C in the world. Since vitamin C stimulates an amino acid that's required to make collagen, Kakadu plum can help plump and restore skin cells resulting in anti-ageing effects. This extract will also help correct UV damage as well as brighten skin and provide a general radiance boost.
Quandong
Quandong is sometimes referred to as sandalwood or native peach. It's found in the central deserts and southern regions of Australia and contains large amounts of vitamin E and phenolic acids. The latter has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and importantly, behaves like an AHA on the skin. Quandong also contains rutin which is another antioxidant that, combined with the vitamin C in this fruit, will have an anti-ageing effect on the skin.
Lemon myrtle
With a refreshing, citrusy aroma, lemon myrtle is a flowering plant that's found in the subtropical rainforests of central and south-eastern Queensland. Its renowned healing properties make it a go-to for treating allergies, colds and digestive issues, but when it comes to skincare, it can help balance oily skin and kill acne-causing bacteria. Lemon myrtle is mainly found in moisturisers and cleansers.
Davidson plum
Davidson plum is extremely high in antioxidants (higher than blueberries) and is also rich in vitamins. It contains anthocyanin which researchers have found assists in the elimination of free radicals. It can help reduce UV damage to skin and promote skin elasticity through enhanced collagen and elastin production.
Desert lime
This native fruit is well adapted to the dry desert conditions of Outback Australia. It contains a very rich concentration of vitamin C that can stimulate collagen production that will enhance firmness and revitalise skin tissue. Desert lime is also a positive addition to sunscreen as it can block out short UV rays.
