Madecassoside: Benefits in skincare
Everyone knows about the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays and its link to premature aging, but most would be hard-pressed to say anything upon chronic inflammation, and its equally pernicious effects.
It is a silent, invisible enemy that creeps up on you. It is not something you can see or feel, so forget about red, painful, or itchy skin that arises now and again – that’s acute inflammation, a healthy immune response to infection or tissue injury.
WHAT IS CHRONIC INFLAMMATION?
Chronic inflammation is an ongoing, sustained, unhealthy heightened immune response, triggered by an overproduction of cytokines. Like a malfunctioning thermostat, the level of inflammatory response is consistently too high, which in turn damages healthy cells, tissues, and organs, resulting in a whole slew of undesirables, including premature aging, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Not a pretty list.
WHAT CAUSES IT?
Your “thermostat” / immune system goes on the blink when you have an overproduction of cytokines. These small proteins are your body’s regulators. We all need cytokines to help us counter infections and injuries, but an overproduction of cytokines on a persistent basis can result in chronic inflammation.
BELOW ARE 4 PROACTIVE STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO PREVENT CHRONIC INFLAMMATION:
- Use skincare products that minimize the overproduction of cytokines.
- Follow an anti-inflammatory diet.
- Exercise regularly to reduce inflammatory markers in blood.
- Reduce stress.
1. Use skincare products that minimize overproduction of cytokines.
Skincare formulas containing skin-like ingredients, such as Madecassoside®* - a lab-engineered pharma-grade extract of the plant, centella asiatica or azaleic acid, - a lab engineered form of the organic compound found in wheat, rye and barley, have been shown to minimize the overproduction of cytokines, enabling the immune system to resist the triggers of chronic inflammation.
Swissline was the first Swiss brand to bring Madecassoside® to the skincare market in its Age Intelligence collection to soothe the sensation of dryness left by peelings, lasers, and dermabrasion, a common side effect from these procedures. Most of the Age Intelligence products are formulated with high concentrations of Madecassoside®, but the best-seller is the award-winning Recovery Serum.
2. Follow an anti-inflammatory diet.
By reducing the intake of animal proteins, simple carbohydrates, and trans/saturated fats, and adding more fruit and vegetables to your diet, as well as increasing your intake of omega 3 fats (found in fish oils, avocados, and walnuts) you will go a long way in the fight against chronic inflammation.
3. Exercise regularly to reduce inflammatory markers in the blood.
Moderate exercise for up to 60 minutes can reduce inflammatory markers in the bloodstream, increase positive neurotransmitters (e.g., serotonin and endorphins), and improve brain chemistry. Combining strength training with cardiovascular activity such as walking, biking or running is also recommended. But, don't overdo it, as that can trigger inflammation!
4. Reduce stress.
Constant psychological, emotional, or physical stress raises the level of cortisol, a steroid hormone responsible for tissue inflammation. Women produce more cortisol than men and experience a more rapid progression of inflammation-related disorders.
Consider doing some yoga. The mechanics and poses of Iyengar yoga have been shown to stimulate the adrenals (the glands above the kidneys in charge of releasing adrenaline and cortisol).
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