The vanilla pod contains small fragrant grains, used in baking as in cosmetics. But also a multitude of very useful molecules for keeping skin young and beautiful.
The vanilla bean contains small black and fragrant grains, but also a multitude of molecules very useful to fight against aging …
Vanilla, a concentrate of anti-aging active ingredients
Traditionally, the inhabitants of the islands pounded fresh vanilla pods to concoct beauty treatments. By mixing them with other ingredients, they made a mask to protect against the sun. A use that interested Chanel’s research. Which discovered that vanilla from Madagascar had a high concentration of polyketones.
These natural defense molecules develop when the plant is attacked and promote the processes of healing. In vitro, they have been shown to stimulate the functions of the skin, in particular increasing the production of growth factors. Thus, they play on the uniformity of the complexion, but also on theskin hydration, its regeneration and firmness. “They have a global action on all the signs of skin aging“, explains Marie-Hélène Lair, director of scientific communication for skincare at Chanel.
While other parts of the vanilla are being studied, a fraction of the flowers has already been incorporated into some formulas. It indeed contains heterosides, molecules that further boost the skin regeneration.
Vanilla: a fragrant and nourishing nectar
“After having dried out of the sun for a few months, the pods are used both in the food industry and to create cosmetics”, explains Floriane Pinel, doctor of pharmacy and expert researcher in vegetable raw materials at Aroma-Zone. There are indeed several ways to take advantage of these long black sticks.
The macerate is obtained by putting the vanilla pods to macerate in an oil (sesame, sunflower, etc.). Very fragrant, this elixir can be applied to the skin, especially when it is dry and grainy, in order to moisturize and soften it. But also on the hair when it is dry or frizzy, on the ends or as a mask, to nourish it, soften it, make it shine and perfume it. This macerate can also become a scented bath oil or a sensual massage oil.
Oleoresin comes from the maceration of vanilla pods. This nectar with regenerating, cleansing, but also calming, relaxing and aphrodisiac properties, is used in balms for the body or for the lips.
The aromatic extract of vanilla is obtained from alcohol and cane sugar. It is used more to perfume than to nourish the skin, this product being very pleasant in a shower gel, for example.
Vanilla: 3 treatments from the islands
This light, moisturizing and nourishing cream contains an antioxidant complex made from Vinanza grapes, New Zealand manuka honey, and avocado oil. A vanilla-mandarin duo forms its botanical scent.
Vanilla Pod moisturizing day cream, Antipodes, € 34.99 for 60 ml.
Well-being oil
Scented with vanilla, a very soft base of maca-damia oil with regenerating and antioxidant properties, associated with sweet almond, avocado and grape seed oils, also with essential oils of orange and red. relaxing ylang-ylang.
Baba Cool vanilla-coconut scented care oil, Unscathed, € 14.95 for 100 ml.
A washing gel with a sensual vanilla scent, a small dose of which is enough to form an abundant foam, with a formula that contains 97% of ingredients of natural origin.
Concentrated bourbon vanilla shower gel, Yves Rocher, € 4.50 for 100 ml.
A super-hydrating vanilla macerate
Ingredients
- 1 or 2 vanilla pods
- 100 ml of sunflower oil (or jojoba, safflower …)
Recipe
- Pour the vegetable oil into a clear glass jar.
- Cut the pods lengthwise.
- Scrape the vanilla beans with the tip of a knife, then put them in the oil, along with the sticks.
- Leave to macerate for two to three weeks in the light, stirring the mixture regularly.
- Then remove the pods without filtering.
