IN THIS ARTICLE:
Here at Graydon Skincare, we talk a lot about our superfood ingredients. They’re loaded with vitamins that deeply nourish the skin. But did you know that your skin needs minerals too? In fact, some minerals are essential for skin health.
That’s why we created our Face Food Mineral Mist. Formulated with white tea and a mineral complex, this hydrating facial mist acts as a nutrient delivery system.
In this article, we'll discuss each of the minerals in Face Food and reveal how they benefit the skin.
Magnesium
The most recognized form of magnesium in personal care is epsom salts. When added to bath water, epsom salts help to soothe sore muscles and inflammation.
How does magnesium benefit the skin?
- Maintains hydration
- Improves skin barrier function
- Anti-inflammatory
Magnesium helps maintain balanced hydration in the skin layers by working with other salts and amino acids in the skin.(1) This helps keep our skin barrier strong, supple and hydrated.(2)
Magnesium is a gentle option for soothing inflammation on red and irritated skin.(3) If you’re prone to dry or sensitive skin, or want an ingredient to soothe and even out your complexion, magnesium is a great choice.
Copper
Copper is an essential trace element found in the body. It plays an important role in the biology of our skin. It’s truly a skin-loving mineral!
How does copper benefit the skin?
- Reduces hyperpigmentation
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Boosts collagen production
Copper plays a role in many cellular processes. It helps to slow the hyperpigmentation process. It also works alongside zinc to help soothe the inflammatory effects of acne. Copper even works with carrier peptides to promote wound healing.(1) As if that’s not enough, copper has antioxidant properties too.(4)
We also love copper because it easily penetrates the skin cells to promote collagen and elastin production so that our skin appears firmer and plumper.(4)
Silver
Silver is a highly reflective precious metal. It has been used as an antimicrobial agent throughout history.(5)
How does silver benefit the skin?
- Antimicrobial
- Aids wound healing
Silver is best known in the skincare world for its antimicrobial properties. You may think that you only need to worry about germs on your hands. Hello, hand sanitizer! The truth is, we also want to protect the skin on our face from unwanted bacteria. When bacteria gets into our pores, it can cause acne breakouts and inflammation.
Silver is shown to enter bacterial cells, disrupt their DNA and stop the replication cycle.(5) Basically, silver attacks and kills bacteria.
In addition to stopping acne-causing bacteria, silver is used in personal care products to prevent odour-causing bacteria. Medical tools and dental implants are often coated with silver to help prevent infections.(5)
Some bandages are also infused with silver. This is because silver has been shown to help heal wounds and reduce scarring.(5)
Zinc
Zinc is another essential trace element that the body and skin need to function properly. It offers incredible skin benefits and is widely used in cosmetic and skincare products.
The most common forms of zinc in cosmetics and skincare are:
- Zinc oxide
- Zinc chloride
How does zinc benefit the skin?
- UV protection
- Antioxidant
- Anti-ageing
- Anti-inflammatory
- Anti-acne
- Antibacterial
Zinc oxide is an active ingredient in mineral sunscreens.(6) It provides UV protection by blocking UV rays from penetrating the skin. You’ll often see it in combination with titanium dioxide to provide broad spectrum protection against UV rays.
Did you know: If you've ever experienced a white cast after applying a mineral sunscreen, zinc oxide is the culprit. Don't let that discourage you though! Be sure to rub your mineral sunscreen in thoroughly and the white cast will disappear. You can also look for mineral sunscreens with a subtle tint.
It’s important to note that just because a product includes zinc oxide, does not mean it is a sunscreen. In order to become a certified SPF, products must undergo rigorous testing. Always apply a certified SPF as the final step in your skincare routine, even if your skincare products contain zinc oxide.
Zinc chloride is a salt form of zinc.(6) This is what we use in Face Food Mineral Mist.
The antioxidant properties of zinc help to protect the skin from the damaging effects of free radicals. Zinc’s anti-inflammatory properties help soothe skin conditions including acne and eczema.(6) Combined, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of zinc offer anti-aging effects to the skin. Yes, please!
Malachite
Malachite is a green, copper-based gemstone. Historically, it was ground to a fine powder and used as a pigment in paint and makeup. Ancient civilizations believed malachite had powerful protective and detoxifying properties.
In Face Food, we use malachite extract.
How does malachite extract benefit the skin?
- Antioxidant
- Detoxifies
- Increases collagen production
Malachite is a powerful free radical scavenger, meaning it provides antioxidant protection against daily aggressors.
Studies conducted by our supplier support the historical use of malachite as a powerful detoxifier. These studies show that our malachite extract traps air pollution particles and prevents them from penetrating the skin barrier.
This beautiful gemstone also helps to boost collagen production for a more youthful looking complexion.
Fun fact: Malachite extract is what gives Face Food its beautiful colour.
Summary
Face Food Mineral Mist is a multipurpose product that can be used as a toner after cleansing and as a midday refresher.
Pro tip: Keep Face Food in the fridge for a truly refreshing burst of moisture and nutrients.
The minerals in Face Food:
- Combat free radicals with powerful antioxidant properties
- Soothe red and inflamed skin with anti-inflammatory properties
- Improve skin barrier function
- Boost hydration
- Increase collagen production
When combined, the magnesium, copper, silver, zinc and malachite are like gold for your skin!
To reap the rewards of Face Food, just spritz whenever your skin needs a nourishing pick-me-up!
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