Horse Chestnut Extract

Derived from the seeds of the Aesculus hippocastanum tree, Horse Chestnut Extract is a powerhouse botanical ingredient celebrated in skincare. It is primarily known for its remarkable soothing properties and its ability to improve microcirculation, making it a go-to for calming sensitive skin and promoting a vibrant, even-toned complexion.

Natural Science

The Horse Chestnut tree is native to the Balkan Peninsula but is now cultivated worldwide. The key to its efficacy lies in a potent blend of bioactive compounds, most notably a saponin called aescin (or escin). This compound is the primary driver of the many horse chestnut extract skin benefits, working to fortify and protect the skin.

Aescin is renowned for its vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory effects. It works by strengthening the walls of capillaries and veins, reducing their permeability. This helps prevent fluid leakage into surrounding tissues, which is why using horse chestnut for face care is so effective at reducing puffiness and visible redness.

Benefits of Horse Chestnut Extract in Skincare

Utilizing horse chestnut extract for skin unlocks a range of advantages for a healthier, more resilient complexion. Its unique composition helps soothe irritation, diminish the appearance of redness, and protect the skin from environmental stressors. These actions work together to reveal a smoother and more radiant look.

• Soothes and Calms Skin: Thanks to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, Horse Chestnut Extract is excellent for calming reactive and sensitive skin. It helps reduce redness and irritation, promoting a more balanced and comfortable complexion.
• Strengthens Capillaries: The aescin in the extract tones and strengthens fragile capillary walls. This action is incredibly beneficial for reducing the appearance of broken capillaries and can help diminish under-eye dark circles caused by poor microcirculation.
• Provides Antioxidant Protection: Rich in flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol, the extract offers powerful antioxidant defense. It helps neutralize damaging free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution, preventing premature signs of aging. The horse chestnut benefits for skin are clear.
• Improves Skin Tone and Texture: By enhancing circulation and providing a gentle astringent effect, aesculus hippocastanum seed extract for skin helps to refine pores and create a firmer, more toned appearance. This contributes to a smoother and more even skin texture.

How Its Used in Nuebiome Products

At Nuebiome, we harness the soothing and strengthening properties of Horse Chestnut Extract in our advanced formulas. We've incorporated this botanical hero into our Biome Balancing Creamy Cleanser to help calm the skin, reduce redness, and support a healthy skin barrier from the very first step of your routine.

Research

Scientific studies highlight the potential of Horse Chestnut Extract as a formidable anti-aging and restorative agent. Research published in the Journal of Cosmetic Science identified it as a potent anti-aging ingredient due to its ability to induce contraction forces in fibroblast cells. Further investigations have shown it increases the production of the extracellular matrix (which includes collagen) and improves wound healing, suggesting powerful skin-strengthening and regenerative capabilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Horse Chestnut Extract

What are the side effects of horse chestnut cream?

When used topically in cosmetic formulations, Horse Chestnut Extract is generally considered very safe. However, some individuals with sensitive skin may experience mild, localized reactions like itching, redness, or a rash. We always recommend performing a patch test on a small area of skin before applying a new product to your entire face.

Is horse chestnut good for rosacea?

The anti-inflammatory and vasoconstrictive properties of Horse Chestnut Extract can be beneficial for managing symptoms of rosacea. By strengthening blood vessel walls and reducing inflammation, it can help diminish the persistent redness and visible capillaries associated with the condition. However, rosacea is a complex medical condition, and you should always consult with a dermatologist before introducing new ingredients to your regimen.

Horse Chestnut Extract References

A horse chestnut extract, which induces contraction forces in fibroblasts, is a potent anti-aging ingredient.. J Cosmet Sci, Sep 2006

Aesculus hippocastanum L. extract differently modulates normal human dermal fibroblasts and cancer-associated fibroblasts from basal/squamous cell carcinoma.. Neoplasma, Jan 2022

Aesculus hippocastanum L. Extract Does Not Induce Fibroblast to Myofibroblast Conversion but Increases Extracellular Matrix Production In Vitro Leading to Increased Wound Tensile Strength in Rats.. Molecules, Apr 2020