What should you know about nettle?

When applied topically to the skin or hair, nettle has numerous benefits.

• Purifying.

  Thenettle extract is a favored ingredient among individuals with oily skin. The benefits of nettle for this skin type can be attributed to its ability to inhibit 5-α-reductase, the enzyme that catalyzes the conversion of testosterone into dihydroxytestosterone (DHT). When DHT binds to a cytosolic receptor in the sebaceous glands, it intensifies sebum production. By inhibiting this process, nettle helps regulate oily skin.

• Anti-inflammatory and soothing.

  Studies have shown that nettle works at various levels to reduce inflammation. One can particularly think of its inhibitory effect on 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in the metabolism of arachidonic acid. This latter increases the production of cyclooxygenases COX-1 and COX-2, molecules that catalyze the formation of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are the pro-inflammatory compounds responsible for redness and itching, especially observed in cases of eczema.

• Antibacterial.

  The nettle extract also contributes to the regulation of microorganism populations living on our skin. It particularly has a inhibitory effect on the growth of Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria associated with acne. The nettle extract can thus be used to reduce imperfections.

• Antioxidant.

  The nettle extract contains several antioxidant molecules that, through an electron donation, are capable of neutralizing free radicals before they can damage cells and DNA. Let's remember that free radicals are particularly generated following exposure to UV rays, pollution, tobacco... and can lead to pigmentation disorders, melanomas, or premature skin aging.

• Prevention of skin aging.

  In addition to its antioxidant properties, nettle extract has a collagenase and elastase inhibitory effect. These are enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin, fibers in the dermis that ensure skin flexibility and elasticity. Thus, nettle extract helps to delay skin sagging.

• Anti-dandruff.

  It has also been demonstrated that nettle extract can help eliminate dandruff. Dandruff is multifactorial and can result from conditions such as hyperseborrhea or colonization by fungi Malassezia. In addition to being sebum-regulating, nettle extract has antifungal activity against these parasites. It is therefore often included in the composition of anti-dandruff shampoos.

• Prevention of hair loss.

  Finally, studies have highlighted that nettle extract is capable of preventing hair loss. This property is explained by its inhibitory action on 5-α-reductase, the enzyme responsible for the conversion of testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT intensifies the activity of interleukin-6 (IL-6), cytokines that speed up the transition between the growth and rest phases of hair. Thus, DHT more rapidly induces hair follicles into the telogen phase, or hair shedding phase. By inhibiting 5-α-reductase, nettle thus protects hair from hormonal fluctuations or genetic predispositions leading to an increased production of DHT and consequently to hair loss.

Unlike the nettle leaf, thenettle extract found in cosmetic products is a non-irritating ingredient. It can be used by the entire family, including pregnant women and children over three years old. However, nettle extract can sometimes be slightly drying depending on the individual. This side effect is not always present but is occasionally observed. It also depends on the other ingredients present in the skincare formula. Moreover, some people may be allergic to nettle extract. Applying this ingredient to their skin can cause temporary redness and itching.

That's why we recommend performing a tolerance test before applying a skincare product containing nettle extract if you've never used it before. This will allow you to ensure that your skin is not allergic to this ingredient. To do this, apply a small amount of the product to a small area of your face, the inside of your elbow, or behind your ear. If you notice no adverse reaction within the following 24 hours, it means your skin tolerates the nettle well.

At Typology, we have formulated a purifying mask based on nettle extract, green clay and pine charcoal, sebum-regulating agents that are favored by oily skin types. Composed of 99% natural ingredients, this treatment dries out blemishes and tightens pores for healthier skin. Its clay-like texture leaves the skin soft and comfortable. Our mask should be applied once or twice a week on cleansed skin and left on the face for about fifteen minutes before rinsing.