Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract

Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract

Rating: Best
Benefits: Soothing, Anti-Aging
Categories: Antioxidant, Plant Extracts

 

 

Clitoria Ternatea (Butterfly Pea) Flower Extract Overview

Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea, is a perennial herb with vivid lavender to deep blue flowers. This plant is rich in antioxidants, including quercetin and anthocyanins, and offers multiple skin benefits, from calming irritation to reducing visible redness and fighting wrinkles. It's also used in the food industry as "blue matcha" due to its natural, vibrant hue.

 

 

Key Benefits

Soothing and Redness Reduction: The root extract of butterfly pea has been shown to visibly reduce redness caused by external irritants, making it an excellent ingredient for sensitive skin.

Antioxidant Protection: Butterfly pea is a potent source of quercetin and anthocyanins, both of which protect the skin from environmental stressors and help maintain skin's youthful appearance.

Anti-Glycation Properties: This extract has been shown to reduce the damaging effects of glycation, a process where sugar molecules break down proteins like collagen. Preventing glycation helps reduce the formation of wrinkles and maintain skin firmness.

Non-Irritating: Butterfly pea flowers are free from aromatic compounds that can irritate the skin, making them suitable for even the most sensitive skin types.

 

 

Functions and Sources

Glutathione Booster: Clitoria ternatea helps increase levels of glutathione, the body's "master antioxidant," which aids in detoxifying the skin and fighting free radicals.

Collagen Preservation: By combating glycation, this extract helps preserve collagen, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and promoting skin firmness.

Anthocyanins: These antioxidant pigments give the butterfly pea its characteristic color and provide potent skin-protective benefits, shielding the skin from environmental damage.

 

 

Concentration and Stability

While there isn't a firmly established concentration guideline for this extract in skincare, its potent color and pigment-rich anthocyanins make it highly effective even in small amounts. Due to its natural stability, it performs well in a variety of formulations.

 

 

Common Applications

Calming Serums: Its soothing properties make it ideal for serums aimed at reducing redness and calming irritated skin.

Anti-Aging Products: Thanks to its anti-glycation effects and antioxidant properties, butterfly pea extract is perfect for formulations targeting visible signs of aging.

Brightening Lotions and Creams: Its vibrant hue and antioxidant richness make it a popular choice in brightening products that aim to enhance skin radiance.

 

 

Conclusion

Clitoria ternatea (butterfly pea) flower extract is a versatile and effective ingredient for those seeking soothing, anti-aging, and antioxidant benefits. Its ability to calm redness, protect against glycation, and boost collagen make it an invaluable addition to skincare formulas, especially for sensitive or aging skin.