Carrot root extract, one of our favourite phytoactive ingredients, has origins that date back millennia. Daucus carota, i.e. the humble carrot, was well known to the ancients, and is mentioned by Greek and Latin writers under various names. Originally referred to as Sisaron by the ancient Greeks, first occurring in the writings of Epicharmus, a comic poet (500 BC); then as Staphylinos, by Hippocrates (430 BC) and by Dioscorides (first century AD), whose description of the plant accurately applies to the modern carrot. The name Carota for the garden carrot is first noted in the writings of Athenaeus (AD 200).
From the time of Dioscorides to the present day, the carrot has been in constant use, worldwide. Classic texts tell us that a poultice made of the roots had been found to mitigate the pain of ulcers, and that the leaves, applied with honey, cleansed sores and ulcers. An infusion of the root was also used as an aperient.
Which brings us to the modern day topical benefits of carotenoids in skincare. Carrot root extract is brimming with skin loving phytochemicals, some of its actions and properties include:
- Carror root extract is exceedingly high in antioxidants and carotenoids, namely: beta-carotene (vitamin A precursor), lycopene, and anthocyanins.
- Beta-carotene acts a precursor to vitamin A – the vitamin responsible for cell regeneration – when applied topically. As such, it may step up the skin’s rate of cell turnover, bringing the younger, healthier skin cells to the surface.
- Promoting revitalisation of the skin, enhancing its resistance to external aggressions, and improving cellular regeneration. The antioxidants prevent free radical formation, in turn countering premature ageing.
- It brightens the complexion, research indicates that phenolic compounds called umbelliferones found in carrot reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the skin and promote antioxidant activity while providing added UV protection.
- Nourishing and emollient, it also provides moisturisation, while soothing the skin and making it more supple.
- Assisting skin affected by insufficient sebaceous secretion. Providing sustained care for rough, dry, flaky skin; and supporting the function of normal skin.
- Carrot root extract is rich in polyphenols such as polyacetylenes, support skin health and functionality by reducing allergic inflammatory responses. Research has also indicated that polyacetylenes possess anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, thereby reducing skin infections and assisting with controlling acne.
- It brightens the complexion, research indicates that phenolic compounds called umbelliferones found in carrot reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation in the skin and promote antioxidant activity while providing added UV protection.
- As mentioned above, it also has UV protective properties, increasing the resistance of the epidermis to UV radiation (although in no way is it a substitute for a good SPF).
We’ve harnessed the powerhouse antioxidant benefits of carrot root extract/oil in three of our products: Helios Facial Cleansing Oil, Panacea Facial Oil. and the Panacea Body Treatment Oil.
