HISTORY
Peach blossom extract, derived from the petals of the Prunus persica, has deep cultural and historical significance in Japan, where it has been celebrated for centuries as a symbol of beauty, renewal, and longevity. Introduced from China during the Nara period, peach blossoms have played a key role in festivals like Hinamatsuri (Girls' Day), where they are believed to bring health and happiness. Historically, peach blossoms were also used in traditional Japanese medicine for their skin-healing properties. This enduring cultural reverence has influenced their incorporation into modern Japanese skincare, where they are prized for their natural beauty-enhancing effects.
SCIENCE
Peach blossom extract is recognized for its powerful antioxidants, owing to its rich content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds like tannic acid and catechin. These natural ingredients effectively neutralize harmful free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage skin cells. The integration of peach blossom extract into skincare routines can protect the skin from these harmful agents and help maintain a healthier complexion.
Studies have demonstrated that peach blossom extract possesses strong antioxidant properties, as shown through tests using DPPH, a substance commonly used to measure antioxidant activity. DPPH helps illustrate how well an ingredient can stabilize and neutralize free radicals. Research has shown that peach blossom extract performs excellently in these tests, effectively combating the damaging effects of free radicals, which can lead to premature aging and other skin issues.
Free radicals can also harm DNA, particularly hydroxyl radicals, leading to premature skin aging. It has been shown that peach blossom extract protects DNA from this oxidative damage, helping to keep the skin looking youthful and healthy. By safeguarding DNA, peach blossom extract plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and longevity of skin cells, contributing to a more youthful appearance.
Pollution from car exhaust, cigarette smoke, and industrial emissions can lead to oxidative stress on the skin, causing aging, allergies, and inflammation. It has been found that peach blossom extract reduces this oxidative stress by up to 31%, promoting cell survival and protecting the skin from pollution's harmful effects. This makes peach blossom extract an excellent choice for those living in urban environments or exposed to high levels of pollution.
In addition to its anti-aging properties, peach blossom extract has remarkable skin-brightening benefits. It inhibits melanogenesis, the process responsible for melanin production, which gives the skin its color. By blocking the enzyme tyrosinase, crucial in the initial phase of melanin production, peach blossom extract helps reduce melanin synthesis. This results in a brighter and more even skin tone, making it a popular ingredient for those looking to enhance skin radiance.
REFERENCES
- Loft S, Fischer-Nielsen A, Jeding IB, Vistisen K, and Poulsen HE (1993) 8-Hydroxydeoxyguanosine as a urinary biomarker of oxidative DNA damage. J Toxicol Environ Health 40, 391-404.
- Li, C., & Wang, M.-H. (2011). Antioxidant Activity of Peach Blossom Extracts. Journal of the Korean Society of Applied Biological Chemistry, 54(1), 46-53.
- Son, H.-U., Lee, S. H., Kim, M.-A., Park, H.-J., & Lee, S.-H. (2012). Comparison of Melanogenesis-Inhibiting Activity by Extracts of Prunus persica Flower and Calyx. Korean Journal of Food Preservation, 19(6), 946-950.
