If you were keeping up with the Rio Olympics, and in particular with beach volleyball, you would be forgiven for thinking that all Brazilians are young, fit and vibrant. Apart from (hopefully) using sunscreen on a regular basis, we figure there must be some secret to their good skin. Turns out that Brazil has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to natural skin care ingredients, thanks to the Amazon Rainforest on its doorstep.
For those of us in the Northern hemisphere, Brazilian beauty is no further than our local stores. Here are a few key ingredients to look out for:
Guarana: This climbing plant native to Brazil bears fruit whose dark brown seed is the real star of the show. Similar in size to a coffee bean but containing twice as much caffeine, the guarana seed is largely used in beverages in South America. However, it is also one of the main ingredients in a popular body (and booty) cream that reportedly stimulates circulation, smooths away cellulite and tightens the skin.
Maracuja: Known more commonly as passion fruit, maracuja is high in vitamin C and essential fatty acids, both of which have legendary benefits to the skin. Vitamin C continues to be the darling of the skin care world, providing antioxidant activity to protect from free radical damage as well as brightening overall skin tone and lightening hyperpigmentation. Essential fatty acids (EFA’s) are needed to keep the skin supple and support a healthy acid mantle. Look for maracuja oil in body lotions and as a dry oil treatment.
Cupuaçu: This melon-sized fruit harvested from the Amazon Rainforest belongs to the cacao family. While its white flesh is used mainly in desserts, the pressing of the fruit seeds produces cupuaçu butter, an impressive source of hydration that’s also rich in antioxidants, omega fatty acids and polyphenols. Fans of shea butter will not be disappointed with this South American powerhouse.
Brazil nut: It would be remiss of us to not mention the Brazil nut! Although technically a seed, the Brazil nut’s high selenium content is the reason behind its antioxidant strength. When included in skin care formulations, selenium improves skin elasticity, fights acne and aids in the healing of wounds. It’s also thought to have anti-bacterial properties. The Brazil nut’s rich oil can be used alone to moisturize or as a booster in creams and lotions to hydrate. Of course, these rounded, crescent moon shaped nuts are equally delicious as a nutrient-rich snack that just happens to give you the bonus of glowing skin.
We may have said goodbye to Rio yesterday but I suspect our love affair with all things Brazilian is just beginning.
