There are about a billion different skin products and supplements – all designed to make you look younger and prettier.
But what about natural remedies and supplements? How do those hold up?
What about Butterfly Pea Flower and its benefits for the skin? Are they worth it?
Let’s find out.
What is the Connection Between Butterfly Pea Flower and Skin Health?
The Butterfly Pea flower, a tropical perennial, is no stranger to the world of natural beauty remedies.
Its popularity stems from its high anthocyanin and flavonoid content, powerful antioxidants that combat oxidative stress – a primary culprit behind premature skin aging. [1]
Moreover, many believe that it is because of those same antioxidants (mainly proanthocyanidin), that Butterfly Pea Flow is capable of boosting collagen and elastin synthesis, which would, in theory, lead to a more youthful appearance.
What Are Common Claims About Butterfly Pea Flower Benefits for Skin?
There are about a dozen common claims about Butterfly Pea Flower and its benefits for the skin.
Many rave about its anti-aging effects. Apparently, Butterfly Pea Flower promotes a more vibrant, youthful complexion, and helps reduce wrinkles and fine lines.
Some even suggest its antioxidant properties help protect the skin from harmful UV rays, consequently lowering the chances of dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Who needs SPF, right?
Finally, many also say that it helps ease skin irritation and itching, making it more than suitable for combating acne, patches, redness, and even dryness. [2]
Is There Any Research Backing Up These Claims?
Scientific research specifically focusing on the Butterfly Pea flower’s skin benefits remains sparse. It’s not non-existent, but we still need a lot more of it to say any of those claims are actually true.
Now, I know what you think – what about those antioxidants?
Well, yes, the antioxidant properties of anthocyanins and flavonoids, key components in the Butterfly Pea flower, have been extensively studied.
These antioxidants can indeed neutralize harmful free radicals, preventing oxidative stress – a major contributor to skin aging. [3]
So, while direct evidence is limited, extrapolating from existing knowledge does allow us to assume these possible benefits. Right?
Well, yes, and no.
Extrapolating does help us think in the right direction, but we can’t draw definitive conclusions without rigorous, controlled studies that specifically investigate the effects of the Butterfly Pea flower on skin health.
Furthermore, how these antioxidants are absorbed and utilized by the body, and in what quantities, is another key piece of the puzzle that we still don’t fully understand.
Can You Safely Use Butterfly Pea Flower Every Day for Skin Health?
Whether used topically or consumed as a supplement, the Butterfly Pea flower appears to be safe for daily use.
While there’s no evidence unequivocally proving long-term safety, there are also no indications there would be any adverse effects.
However, as with any natural remedy, individual reactions can vary, so it’s advisable to start with small doses or do patch tests.
Adverse reactions can happen on rare occasions, so be careful.
Are There Any Possible Side Effects of Using Butterfly Pea Flower?
Generally, the Butterfly Pea flower is well-tolerated, and side effects are rare, mild, and short-lived.
But it is as we said, in some cases, hypersensitivity or allergic reactions may occur.
In the case of a supplement, nausea, diarrhea, or general stomach issue could arise.
If you experience redness, itching, or discomfort after applying or consuming Butterfly Pea flower, it’s best to discontinue use (wash your face, if you’ve applied a mask or a cream), and seek help from a medical professional if the problems persist.
Do Butterfly Pea Flower Benefits for Skin Make it Worth Using?
While the potential skin benefits of the Butterfly Pea flower sound promising, the lack of conclusive scientific evidence makes us skeptical, so whether it is worth it or not is entirely up to you.
Some of these properties could potentially be beneficial, but until more research is done, it’s worth keeping an open mind and considering other well-studied alternatives for skin health.
How We Rate Butterfly Pea Flower for Skin Health:
Taking into account the current research, as well as its place in the industry today, we rate Butterfly Pea Flower a 2.5 out of 5 for skin health.
It sure is promising – largely due to its rich antioxidant content – but the lack of direct scientific evidence prevents us from giving it a higher score.
That said, if you’re thinking about supplementing with powder or tea for skin health – we’d say that the rating drops to 1.1 out of 5.
Conclusion
While the Butterfly Pea Flower benefits for skin seem to exist in some way, shape, or form – we can’t really say that this would be our go-to choice for keeping youthful looks.
Until we know better, we’ll stick with a proper diet, better sleep, and excellent hydration, while using just moisturizing cream and SPF on a daily basis.