For hundreds of years, Cranberries have been used by Native Americans in a number of ways, including as a source of food and medicine. For example, they would grind the cranberries and use the paste for treating infections. Cranberries grow in bogs and are harvested in late September and early October. When ingested, cranberries help improve immune function, decrease blood pressure, and more. They also provide benefits to the skin when applied topically. “Cranberries have gentle exfoliating, anti-inflammatory properties that have been proven to be effective in skincare,” says Rene Freeman, global education at Osmosis Beauty. “Cranberry is a familiar smell that excites the senses and reminds people of the holidays. Cranberry enzymes are suitable for most skin types. They act as collagen stimulators, infuse the skin with antioxidants, and firm and tone the skin while gently removing damaged cells.”
Find out why cranberry-based products are becoming more popular in skincare today.
“Cranberries are multifunctional, offering a wide array of benefits suitable for all skin types and conditions, so they are a cost-effective, highly corrective option for anyone seeking results. Cranberries contain natural enzymes that exfoliate dull, hyperpigmented skin cells revealing brighter skin, and are mildly astringent, so they help shrink pores and regulate excess oil production. They are also antiseptic and help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, which makes them an excellent option for clients with oily or acneic skin types. Cranberries contain an array of vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, including vitamins A, C, B3, E, and K. They are a multivitamin for the skin, providing antioxidant support to prevent and correct any signs of aging.”—Courtney McClendon, regional education manager for the East Coast, Cosmedix
“Cranberries are unique in that they have one of the highest concentrations of antioxidants of any fruit and vegetable, even more than superfoods like blueberries, strawberries, and kale. You may recognize cranberry as a common ingredient in skincare, as the antioxidants, vitamins, and fatty acids found in this berry can be used to treat a host of skin concerns and conditions like dryness, dullness, and signs of aging. Skincare products containing cranberry are incredibly effective for those with dry or dehydrated skin, as the oils found in this berry contain the ideal ratio of omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. This ratio allows for cranberry seed oil to absorb effortlessly into the skin, allowing the antioxidants to penetrate more deeply while providing the skin with intense hydration. Not only does this berry help to hydrate the skin, but the oils found in cranberries also work to protect and repair the skin’s moisture barrier while defending against environmental irritants.”—Natalie Pergar, lead skincare trainer, Eminence Organic Skin Care
“No matter the age of a client, having well-moisturized skin is gorgeous. The balanced range of omega fatty acids in cranberry oil is a natural way to help the skin better retain moisture and achieve deeper hydration. Not to mention, it’s a rich source of antioxidants that help to fight free radical damage, which helps support the skin’s microbiome. The benefits are numerous, but the ones I feel are the most impactful include the antioxidants that work to protect the skin, the phytosterols that help soothe skin, and the balanced ratio of omega fatty acids that aid in moisture retention. All of these properties help strengthen the skin for a smoother, healthier, and younger-looking complexion.”—Emily Stutzman, esthetician, LaFlore Live Probiotic Skincare