VALYXIR BLOG

Revealing the power of the Alpine skullcap

Aug 10, 2023

Revealing the power of the Alpine skullcap
In our quest for effective and sustainable ingredients, nature never ceases to amaze us. In this blog post, we delve into the secrets of Scutellaria Alpina and explore its potential to shake up the world of cosmetics. Scutellaria Alpina extract offers numerous benefits for achieving hydrated, radiant skin.  

 

Scutellaria alpina, commonly known as alpine skullcap, is a rare alpine plant native to the Alps. This alpine plant grows from 10 to 40 cm tall and thrives in high-altitude regions, demonstrating its resilience and adaptability.


Common Name

Alpine skullcap

Latin name

Scutellaria alpina

INCI Name

Scutellaria Alpina Flower / Leaf / Stem Extract

Parts used

Aerial parts (flowers, leaves, and stem)

Harvest

June-August, full blooming

Altitude

1’000 - 2’500 m

 

The unique properties of this flower, that make it resilient to harsh environmental conditions at altitudes of up to 2500 meters, also make it the perfect choice for our facial care products. This flower is an expert in self-preservation against UV rays, extreme temperatures, and dehydration.

 

The secret benefits

This beautiful plant has been used in traditional medicine (in Asia, Europe and North America) due to its numerous health benefits. However, it is only in recent years that its potential in the field of cosmetics has been scientifically validated.

The active ingredient is an extract of the aerial part of the alpine skullcap which:

  • Reduces oxidative stress generated by pollution or lifestyle. Powerful natural antioxidant, 5 times more potent than green tea extract.
  • Protects the skin's barrier function.
  • Preserves skin hydration in harsh environmental conditions
  • Softens, soothes and illuminates the skin

 

The end result is a softer, more hydrated skin.

 

Transparency of origin

The flowers grow naturally in the wild at altitudes of 1,500 to 2,500 meters.

However, to produce this active ingredient, the flowers are not picked in the wild, but organically cultivated on ancient moraines.

They are cultivated at an altitude of around 1,200 meters in the Swiss Alps (Valais). At this altitude, the plants are exposed to harsh environmental conditions (strong UV radiation, large temperature differences, strong winds leading to dehydration). As a result, they produce higher levels of secondary metabolites to protect themselves. In other words, high-altitude cultivation guarantees a higher content of active substances.

 

Sustainability

Apart from its remarkable skincare benefits, Scutellaria Alpina extract also offers advantages from an environmental perspective. The flowers are organically cultivated in a pure environment, in accordance with Bio Suisse organic standards. What's more, the extraction process is carried out in Valais according to the principles of green chemistry. The bioactive ingredient is certified organic by COSMOS and Fair Trade according to the Fair for Life standard.

 

Final remark

Scutellaria Alpina extract is a botanical gem. This alpine powerhouse offers a natural and sustainable solution for achieving more radiant skin.

By harnessing the beauty of nature, we can enhance our skincare routine while preserving the environment.

Embrace the power of Scutellaria Alpina and unlock the secrets of alpine beauty for yourself!

 

This ingredient can be found in: 

REVITALIZING MOUNTAIN FLOWER SERUM

 

References

 

JEAN, L. (1942) Fleurs des Alpes. Quatrième édition. OPHRYS GAP.

 

Grey-Wilson, C. & Blamey, M. (2022) Guide des fleurs de montagne, Alpes, Pyrénées, Vosges, Jura, Massif central. Delachaux et Niestlé.

 

Centre national de données et d'informations sur la flore de Suisse (2023) https://www.infoflora.ch/fr/flore/scutellaria-alpina.html

 

 

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