EXPLORING THE AGE - DEFYING BENEFITS OF GOJI BERRIES FOR SKIN

Published: May 10, 2023

You may have come across the goji berry as a popular ingredient in skincare products, but how exactly does this tiny berry benefit the skin? Long before they made their debut in skincare products, goji berries were, and still are, a part of Chinese culture and are known as a symbol of longevity. Native to Asia, these berries have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years due to their many health benefits. They have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, boost immune function, and even improve vision. Today, goji berries are considered a superfood, containing a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are essential for maintaining healthy skin.

Our skin health is not only influenced by the products we apply on it, but also by what we consume. By adding goji berries into both our diet and skincare routine, we can enjoy various benefits for our overall health and skin. Below, we are diving into the power of goji berries, the surprising benefits they offer for the skin, as well as ways on how to incorporate them in our skincare routine.

"Goji berry is considered a superfood, which means it is nutrient-dense and has multiple health benefits. As such, it delivers multiple benefits to the skin, making it universally beneficial for all skin types and conditions."

Christine Lee, Board Certified Esthetician and [ comfort zone ] Master Educator

woman looking at her skincare after using products with Goji Berries

Understanding the Power of Goji Berries

Goji berries are a powerful superfood that can help promote overall health and well-being. Lycium barbarum, or goji berries, are a fruit derived from the same family as potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants. These small red berries are nutrient-dense, containing antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for maintaining good health. Just a small serving of goji berries can bring more energy, balance blood sugar levels, and improve skin health. Goji berries should not be eaten in excess, as they may induce a change in blood pressure or cause side effects for those on blood thinners.

Because of their excellent antioxidant properties, goji berries reduce oxidative stress that fight free radicals and help reduce signs of aging on the skin. This berry gives the skin a healthy glow through an abundance of naturally occurring carotenoids, including beta-carotene, lutein, lycopene and others. These berries also contain anti-inflammatory properties that may address skin concerns, such as acne. Whether you are looking to boost your immune system, address skin concerns, or simply add more variety to your meals, goji berries may be just the superfood you need.

Goji Berry Benefits for Skin

When it comes to healthy skin, many of us are willing to go to great lengths to achieve a clear, glowing complexion. While there are numerous products and treatments available for youthful skin, one natural remedy that has gained attention in recent years is the goji berry. Let’s take a look at what benefits are actually packed into this little berry

Improve Skin Hydration

One of the many benefits of goji berries is increased skin hydration. Goji berries contain vitamin A, C, and E, which work together to enhance the skin’s ability to retain moisture. They also are made up of amino acids, which can provide improved hydration. Whether you are consuming goji berries in your next meal or applying them topically, the frequent incorporation of goji berries in your diet or skincare can take your skin from dull and dehydrated, to radiant and plump.

Boosting Collagen Production

Goji berries are known to contain high levels of vitamin C, which is a key nutrient for collagen production. Collagen is a protein that provides structure to the skin, making it appear firm and youthful. As we age, our body's natural collagen production decreases, which can lead to wrinkles and fine lines. Consuming goji berries can help boost collagen production, which can result in firmer, more youthful-looking skin. Additionally, goji berries contain other nutrients such as beta-carotene and vitamin E, which also contributes to overall skin health and helps combat signs of aging.

Fighting Free Radical Damage

Free radicals are unstable molecules that are highly reactive and can damage cells. Excessive amounts of free radicals in the body can lead to oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and potential illnesses. When free radicals are present in the skin, many people may have frequent issues with their skin health. Goji berries are a high antioxidant fruit, which helps alleviate oxidative stress and prevent free radicals from damaging proteins and DNA.

Clearing up Acne and Breakouts

Goji berries may help with acne and breakouts as well. These berries have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the effects of acne on the skin. With high levels of vitamin A and C, goji berries help reduce inflammation in the skin and fight off bacteria that causes acne. Goji berries also possess antibacterial properties that help combat acne by eliminating it from the root cause. However, it is important to note that the incorporation of goji berries in your skincare may have varying results from person to person, and it is always recommended to first consult with a professional.

woman looking at her skincare on the dark blue background

How to Incorporate Goji Berries into Your Skincare Routine

Goji berries, much like other superfoods, are packed with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. Not only can they provide numerous health benefits when consumed, but they can also be an effective addition to your skincare routine. There are various ways to incorporate goji berries, both orally and topically–including serums, creams, sunscreens, cleansers and even face masks that can be made from home.

Adding Goji Berries Into Your Diet

This tiny fruit is packed with skin-friendly ingredients that can help nourish and protect your skin. Goji berries, also known as the wolfberry, can be eaten raw, cooked, or dried. You can add goji berries into your diet just like other berries. Eat them by the handful or add them to your favorite trail mix. Goji berries are frequently consumed through the form of supplements and superfood blends, added into a smoothie or tea. They are also available in juice form. Incorporating goji berries into your regular diet can provide many benefits for the skin, including anti-aging effects, improved hydration, and acne prevention.

Using Goji Berry Skincare Products

Using the right skincare products is important for achieving your skincare goals. As an antioxidant, the goji berry promotes collagen production for youthful, elastic skin. Goji berries may also help brighten and clarify your skin, thanks to their rich source of vitamin C. It also contains amino acids that aid in maintaining skin hydration helping to prevent dryness.

This beneficial berry can be found in certain types of skincare products, including oils, cleansers, sunscreens, moisturizers, and masks.

Renight Cream - This nourishing face cream is ideal for night treatment. This cream is formulated to help with anti-aging and hydration for dry skin. The organic goji berry helps repair the skin, while the tomato extract and macadamia oil offer a nourishing and protective effect.

Renight Oil - This vitamin face oil is formulated with organic goji berry oil that promotes a double hydrating and antioxidant action. Ideal for night treatment, this oil has a silky texture, leaving the skin soft and nourished by morning.

Renight Mask - Suitable for all skin types, this overnight face mask is ideal for dry and stressed skin. With certified organic goji berry oil, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid, this mask promotes a restoring action of the skin barrier. Apply this mask to cleansed skin before bed and remove any remaining residue with a warm, damp face towel once absorbed.

Making Your Own Goji Berry Face Mask

Some people may opt for making their own remedies at home in order to achieve glowing skin. By making your own goji berry face mask, you can help nourish and hydrate your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalized. To start reaping the skin benefits of this superfood, here are three simple face masks you can make at home using natural ingredients.

Mask for Anti-Aging

Soak a handful of goji berries in 2 teaspoons of water
After 20 minutes, mash the berries into a pulp
Add ½ teaspoon of raw honey
Apply the mixture to a clean face
Let it sit for about 20 minutes and then wash it off using a warm, damp cloth

Mask for Skin Hydration

Combine ⅓ of a cup of goji berry juice with a teaspoon of honey and yogurt
Apply evenly to face for 10 to 15 minutes
Wash off with lukewarm water
Your skin will feel hydrated and refreshed

Mask for Treating Acne

Soak a handful of goji berries in water for 20 minutes
Squeeze the juice from the berries
Mix the juice with a tablespoon of aloe vera gel
Apply it to the face for 15 to 20 minutes for best results

Goji Berries for Glowing, Youthful Skin

Goji berries are a superfood containing many nutritional benefits that can promote one’s overall health. These berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamins which offer both health and skin benefits. When consuming goji berries orally or applying them topically, it can help balance blood sugar, rejuvenate the skin, improve hydration, promote collagen production, and prevent acne breakouts.

Incorporating goji berries into your diet and skincare routine can be a simple and effective way to boost your skin's appearance. Before adding goji berries into your diet or skincare, it is always suggested to speak with a professional. Side effects may include changes in blood pressure, allergic reactions, or interfere with those on blood thinners.