Ginger: What should we know about this spice?

Ginger is a natural ingredient rich in beneficial actives, responsible for the various benefits it provides to the skin and hair. The table below groups the different bioactive molecules found in the ginger, along with the main properties they possess.

If the ginger is a coveted ingredient in cosmetics, it's because it provides numerous benefits to the skin.

• The ginger has antioxidant properties.

  It is estimated that ginger contains about forty molecules with antioxidant properties, the most active being gingerol and shogaol, which are capable of effectively combating oxidative stress. Thus, ginger has a photoprotective potential and is an excellent ally for preventing skin aging.

• The ginger has an antibacterial effect.

  Ginger is also a good antibacterial, a property conferred by the α-pinene, a bacteriostatic, and the limonene it contains. The latter acts on certain Gram-positive bacteria and causes the rupture of the bacterial membrane, which compromises the cellular integrity of the bacteria.

• The ginger has anti-inflammatory properties.

  The gingerol, shogaol, and citral found in ginger work at various molecular levels to reduce inflammation. Thus, ginger is often considered a helpful ally in cases of redness or itching and can also help alleviate symptoms of psoriasis.

• The ginger stimulates microcirculation of the blood.

  This property of ginger also comes from gingerol. Studies have shown that this molecule is capable of promoting the dilation of blood vessels, which consequently stimulates microcirculation. This property is beneficial in combating several issues, including certain types of dark circles and bags under the eyes, as well as in cases of heavy legs.

• Ginger is a good healing agent.

  Several studies have shown that ginger has a protective effect on collagen and elastin by reducing the synthesis of enzymes responsible for their degradation. In doing so, ginger promotes epithelialization and tissue regeneration.

Versatile, the ginger also finds its place in hair care cosmetics.

• Ginger has sanitizing properties.

  Antiseptic in nature, the regular use of ginger through massage or the application of a warm compress on the scalp helps to keep the bacterial populations living on our scalp under control.

• Ginger soothes scalp itchiness.

  Often subject to tightness and irritation, the scalp also deserves to be taken care of. For this, ginger is a good candidate due to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Ginger protects the ends and prevents the occurrence of split ends.

  Finally, the antioxidant properties of ginger allow it to protect hair fibers from oxidative stress, which can weaken the hair follicle and promote hair loss and the appearance of split ends.

As a herbal tea, a spice in dishes, a dietary supplement, or a topical application... the ginger is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various ways. In addition to its taste qualities, orally consumed ginger is known to combat motion sickness. In the form of a dietary supplement, the recommended daily dose is generally 1 gram to enjoy its effects. It's also worth noting that this form of ginger can be used to soothe the symptoms of psoriasis.

Before starting a ginger regimen, we recommend consulting with your primary care physician so they can advise you on the dosage and type of supplement that will be most suitable for you.

Regarding the topical application of this ingredient, there are several creams, masks, or serums enriched with ginger extract available on the cosmetic market. You can also mix a bit of the spice with water before soaking a clean cloth in it and applying it to the skin for about fifteen minutes. It is also possible to use ginger extract or ginger essential oil, which should be carefully diluted before applying it to the skin and massaging it in.

Although the ginger is not a particularly irritating ingredient, one must always exercise caution when using a new active ingredient. The first recommendation is for people with a food allergy to ginger. Even though a food allergy does not necessarily lead to a cosmetic allergy, it may be wise to seek medical advice before using ginger in topical applications.

To avoid an unexpected allergic reaction, it is also recommended to perform a sensitivity test to ginger. To do this, apply a small amount to the skin. If you observe no redness, swelling, or irritation within the following 24 hours, this indicates that your skin tolerates this ingredient well. Otherwise, it means that your skin is sensitive to ginger and it would be better to avoid using it in the future.