Facial redness: what can be done to reduce it?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of anti-inflammatory agents found in certain skincare products.

• The Beta-glucan

  Derived from bacteria, this active ingredient is a natural polysaccharide (long sugar molecule) composed entirely of glucose units. It regulates at the source the factors responsible for unpleasant skin reactions and reactivates the micro-circulation of blood. It also reduces skin hypersensitivity by stimulating the self-defense capabilities of the skin barrier and accelerating the skin repair process, while possessing a strong hydrating power.

  To soothe skin prone to temporary and diffuse redness, and to put an end to discomfort and tingling, we have developed the soothing serum, a true ally for reactive and fragile skin. Unscented, its formulation, built around the soothing properties of beta-glucan, is 99% of natural origin and does not include any harsh substances for reactive skin. Although it helps to immediately and lastingly calm the sensations of heat and tightness of sensitive skin, there is no such thing as zero allergy risk. However, everything has been done to minimize the risks of skin reactions.

• The Centella asiatica

  The saponosides present in the Centella asiatica soothe and repair the epidermis. Indeed, these molecules contribute to the renovation of the hydrolipidic film of the skin, thus allowing it to maintain its hydration. At the same time, they act on redness and irritations. In cases of severe desquamation, a topical application of Centella asiatica thus regulates the production of keratinocytes (epithelial cell responsible for the appearance of scales).

• The bisabolol

  This is an active plant extract isolated from the essential oil of German chamomile, which is attributed with anti-inflammatory, healing, and soothing properties for the skin. It improves the appearance of damaged skin and restores suppleness.

• Theaqueous extract of licorice (INCI name: Glycyrrhiza Glabra Root Extract)

  Enriched with glabridin, one of the isoflavonoids with proven anti-inflammatory potential, licorice extract is effective both in vitro andin vivo. It inhibits the activation of MAPKs (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases that lead to the activation of several transcription factors which in turn activate the transcription of various inflammatory genes) and the translocation of NF-kB into the nucleus (the main transcription factor involved in the inflammatory response), as well as the modulation of the expression of various pro-inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6).

  Thelicorice extract also contains a significant amount of glycyrrhizic acid (saponin), which also contributes to its anti-inflammatory action. Indeed, a study has shown that the effects of glycyrrhizic acid were so similar to desoxycorticosterone, a molecule known for its anti-inflammatory action in pharmacy, that it is even referred to as natural cortisone. Thus, licorice extract soothes irritated skin, redness, as well as itching.