Extract of blackberry leaf (Rubus fruticosus) is a common traditional medicine which recently has been discovered to benefit the suppleness and smoothness of human skin. According to a recent study, it boosts the production of collagen and elastin, two compounds which are responsible for skin’s elasticity and firmness.
How does it work? According to scientists blackberry leaf extract is made up of many functional ingredients which work together to inhibit enzymes in the skin called matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). MMPs, which are fed by exposure to UVA radiation, are an enemy to youthful skin because they break down both collagen and elastin.
Scientists have found that blackberry leaf extract inhibits the activity of these enzymes, enabling skin to retain its elasticity and smoothness for longer. It also contains antioxidants similar to those found in green tea.
Scientists and cosmetic companies alike hail the extract as a multi-tasking ingredient, highly effective against aging skin. The extract is not available in any products on the market at present, but its usefulness is being evaluated with a view to including it in future skin treatments. Watch for it.
