Edelweiss: the star flower

The mountain star evolves in a hostile environment. In cosmetics, the defenses it deploys are converted into beneficial active ingredients for our skin.

What is Edelweiss?

Edelweiss, or Leontopodium alpinum in Latin, is a rare flower of the Asteraceae family that grows in the Alps. Evolving in a hostile environment, this flower has developed very useful defense mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory properties. In cosmetics, these defenses are converted into beneficial active ingredients for our skin.

The name edelweiss is of German origin, "edel" meaning "noble" and "weiss" meaning "white". Nicknamed silver star, snow immortelle or queen of the glaciers, it is one of the emblems of Switzerland and represents purity and love in Tyrol. The edelweiss blooms in extreme conditions, at an altitude of between one thousand two hundred and three thousand meters, in the cold, snow and intense sunlight.
Edelweiss decoctions in milk with honey are known to relieve stomach ailments. This flower also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Edelweiss in cosmetics

Thanks to its plant cell culture, edelweiss can be used in cosmetics. Indeed, this technique makes it possible to obtain a concentrated active ingredient, rich in leontopodic acid, specific to edelweiss. This active ingredient offers a strong antioxidant power that neutralizes oxidative stress that alters the quality of the skin. It also reduces inflammation of skin cells and reactivates the contractile capacities of the skin, therefore its elasticity.

Cosmetic products based on edelweiss are particularly suitable for mature skin, which is even more marked by the hormonal decline due to menopause. The skin's barrier function is strengthened, and all its defense mechanisms are stimulated, behaving like the pretty mountain flower.

Garancia cosmetic product based on edelweiss: [ÉTOILE Polaire] , Supreme volumizing serum, Garancia, 30 ml, €70.90.

By Audrey Tropauer

Photo credit: @claire_b._photography