The time has come to reprise our amazing ingredients series, so let’s dive right in! Suberin extract, which comes from Quercus Suber, has wonderful healing properties that make it a sustainable alternative to polyester, as well as an amazing skincare ingredient. How can something that has the potential to replace polyester be good for your skin? Well, this powerful natural ingredient is actually derived from cork trees. In this article, we’ll take a look at the how and why suberin is being used in natural skincare.
Cork trees are mostly native to Europe and parts of North Africa. The raw material from these trees is commonly used to craft corks for wine bottles and is a base for artisanal products in the Mediterranean. Since this natural material grows on trees that are in no danger of extinction, that makes it a renewable and sustainable resource. When it comes to the skin-loving ingredient obtained from Quercus Suber, suberin extract, the same is true. This extract is sustainable, renewable, and doesn’t harm the ecosystem.
On the contrary, cork trees help the environment immensely. These special trees cultivate an ideal habitat for many animals and help protect them from the elements. Like all trees, they convert CO2 into oxygen thereby cleansing our air and helping to fight pollution. Much like its natural plant origin, suberin extract has the ability to help the environment by providing a natural solution to polyester use. Not to mention, this extract has incredible benefits for the skin.
Cork is such a prevalent natural resource, but almost no one uses cork as much as the brand Birkenstock. After all, they’re one of the first big natural brands to use suberin extract in skincare products.
When you say Birkenstock, I say iconic. Jokes aside, I honestly grew up seeing Birkenstocks on my mother’s feet along with the feet of nearly all of her friends. For people who value natural beauty, healing, etcetera, they used to be ‘the’ shoe to have. Of course, things may have changed a bit since I was a kid. Being environmentally friendly is more fashionable than ever with more and more sustainable shoe brands joining the ranks every day.
Perhaps that’s why with over two-hundred years of natural shoe-making experience, Birkenstock decided to delve into the world of skincare. With cork as the base for all of their sandals, it was no surprise that they’d make it the star of their skincare line. This historic footwear company is so knowledgeable about cork, that they even know the ideal time to harvest it so that the suberin extract will be more potent. According to their website, suberin extract is most beneficial when taken from trees that are at least forty-three years old! Aged to perfection, as some might say.
The time spent waiting for suberin to age in cork trees is certainly worth it. Suberin extract can help lift and tighten the skin, giving a younger and fresher appearance. Not to mention that this natural extract also helps improve the texture of skin by making it soft and smooth to the touch. That’s because suberin has plenty of hydroxycarboxylic acids. If that wasn’t good enough, you’ll be happy to hear there’s more.
Since suberin is high in antioxidants it can help protect the skin when in extract form. Suberin extract on the skin serves as a barrier against environmental influences. Coupled with the previously mentioned benefits, it’s perfect for healing and nurturing the skin. This extract also helps fight inflammation and visibly reduce redness. Dermatologist Dr. Hadley King even said that due to this extract’s emollient nature, it can lock moisture into the skin, keeping it hydrated and beautiful.
With its impressive specs, suberin might be a great new ingredient for you to try out in your skincare routine. Whether you choose to purchase suberin in a premade product or craft your own cosmetic at home, you’re sure to delight in its unique properties. Those who opt to craft natural, handmade skincare at home might be searching for a little guidance on how to share their skincare talent with the world. We suggest that you learn more about WapoBeauty’s eBook on How to Sell Your Skincare Products Legally in Ireland and the EU. For more hands-on instruction on how to formulate and make safe and professional skincare products, sign up for one of the last few spots in WapoBeauty’s upcoming Making Natural Skincare Masterclass.
Ashuni Pérez is an American writer based in Valencia, Spain. She has a passion for natural beauty and the environment. Ashuni loves to cycle and drink smoothies in the sun. Follow her on Instagram at @ashuuuuni
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