Kale has been grown and eaten for thousands of years. It is a descendent of wild cabbage, which is native to Europe and Asia Minor, and grows best in the cold. Kale is widely consumed for its benefits to the body, such as supporting immunity and bone health, protecting against heart disease, and more. It is also found in many skincare products today because of its impact on the skin. Kale works to promote collagen production and reduces dark spots. It can also help treat hyperpigmentation, inflammation, and promote more skin production. “Skincare trends can tend to follow food trends, which makes sense because what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in your body,” says Holly Wydra, treatment engagement director at FarmHouse Fresh. “Kale is high in antioxidants and vitamins, as well as phytonutrients — all of which work to help fight signs of aging, helping to brighten, smooth, firm, and soothe skin.”
Find out why kale is so beneficial for the skin and the body:
“Consumers are becoming more aware of the ingredients that are in their skincare and demanding to see plant-based skincare that offers results. The rise in organic skincare has made ingredients like kale more appealing. We use powdered kale as one of the ingredients in our apothecary. It functions as an exfoliator and soothes the skin. We love kale for its antioxidant powerhouse of vitamins A, K1, B6, and manganese. Vitamin A promotes healthy cell growth in the dermis and epidermis and helps to repair damaged skin cells. Vitamin K1, a vital chemical needed for photosynthesis in plants, is particularly abundant in kale. Studies have shown that the topical use of vitamin K1 helps to improve skin elasticity and minimizes dark circles or bruising. It also helps the blood coagulate and prevents the calcification of blood vessels, making it a great ingredient to use after extractions. We also find it’s helpful for treating rosacea. Vitamin B6 helps to fight the overproduction of sebum and in low doses can help fight acne. Manganese protects the skin against oxidative stress.” —Justine Kahn, founder and CEO, Botnia Skincare
“The natural segment of skincare is continuing to grow in popularity. Kale is incredibly rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and nutrients, particularly vitamin C. Using products containing kale are an all-around savior for our skin by diminishing inflammation, protecting skin’s hydration, boosting collagen production, and preventing free-radical damage caused by environmental stressors. Products formulated with kale help clients achieve a brighter complexion and more even skintone by preventing UV damage and inhibiting hyperpigmentation. Humans cannot produce vitamin C on their own, so we can only receive its benefits by ingesting it or by applying it topically on a consistent basis.” —Brian Goodwin, international educator, Eminence Organic Skin Care