Category: Alpha Hydroxy Acid
Benefits: Exfoliates and brightens skin, improves hydration and moisture retention.
Who it's for: Suitable for normal, oily, and acne-prone skin, plus those experiencing premature ageing.
Find it in: Renew Exfoliate Serum
Bilberries, or European blueberries come from a small shrub called the Vaccinium myrtillus, native to Northern Europe. Bilberry fruit extract is a powerhouse of skin benefits ranging from antioxidant protection and anti-inflammatory properties to skin brightening, hydration, and collagen support.
Bilberry fruit Extract is renowned for its high concentration of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanin antioxidants, a type of flavonoid polyphenol. Along with performing typical antioxidant duties of boosting the skin's environmental defences against pollution, anthocyanins have also been shown to stimulate collagen production in the skin. Collagen is a key structural protein that maintains skin firmness and elasticity. By promoting collagen synthesis, bilberry extract helps to enhance skin elasticity, minimise the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, strengthen the skin barrier, and maintain a healthy, more youthful appearance.
It contains exfoliating acids such as citric, malic, and tartaric acids, which help target visible signs of ageing by removing dead skin cells, revealing a brighter, more radiant complexion underneath. Additionally, its ability to enhance blood circulation in the skin further contributes to a healthy glow.
Bilberry fruit extract's anti-inflammatory compounds make it effective in soothing inflamed skin. It can help alleviate redness, swelling, and irritation associated with various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, or rosacea.
And finally, this powerhouse ingredient is rich in vitamins and minerals that support skin hydration and moisture retention. Bilberry fruit extract can help strengthen the skin's barrier function, reducing trans-epidermal water loss and keeping the skin hydrated and supple.