Pomegranate Madness – The latest super anti-oxidant ingredient that you must have.

For thousands of years Pomegranates have been used in medicine. Lately however they have been popping up in all kinds of cosmetics. Why is that?
Numerous scientific studies point to the pomegranate as an exceptional source of antioxidants, conjugated fatty acids, gentle botanical estrogens, and other highly beneficial compounds. One study found that pomegranates are far higher in antioxidants than apple juice, black cherry juice, red wine, blueberry juice, cranberry juice, Concord grape juice, orange juice, black tea, green tea and white tea. It really is a super anti-oxidant fruit.
In the USA, studies on heart disease patients showed that taking the juice every day increased blood flow to the heart. It can help lower cholesterol and is a rich source of vitamin C and folic acid. According to Leslie Baumann, M.D., chief of cosmetic dermatology, University of Miami: “Oral and topical antioxidants should be a part of every anti-aging skin care regimen.”
Jane Iredale notes on her website: Researchers assessed the effect of skin application of pomegranate extract on induced skin tumours. The skin pre-treated with pomegranate extract showed substantially reduced tumour incidence. “For the first time, we have clear evidence that pomegranate extract possesses anti-skin-tumour-promoting effects,” said Dr. Farrukh Afaq, lead investigator of the study. “With such a variety of pathways inhibited by the topical application of the natural supplement, we are confident of its therapeutic value.”
Howard Murad, M.D., Los Angeles-based dermatologist said the benefits of pomegranate are twofold. “Pomegranate is one of the most powerful age-proofing antioxidants available,” he says, “and its extract can increase the SPF of topical sunscreens by 25 percent. It’s truly an amazing, healing fruit.” So with all this research going on with this amazing fruit, I for one think that this bandwagon is worth jumping on.

Consuming either the fruit, the juice or applying it in our cosmetics will only have positive benefits for us. Here are some of the amazing array of products that have Pomegranate as an ingredient. Not only do the all smell absolutely amazing, they’re also good for you. Enjoy.

1. Eminenece Cranberry and Pomegranate Masque
The antioxidant superpowers of cranberry and pomegranate combine in a delicious masque loaded with whole fruits, seeds, and juice. The high levels of Vitamin C and polyphenols revitalise and protect the skin while improving tone and the visible signs of aging. Compliment your health with this wonderful masque that is also high in flax seed oil, sunflower and gooseberry. $81.00

2. Jane Iredale Pom Mist
This is no ordinary facial spritz. With ingredients such as pomegranate extract, white tea extract (the creme de la creme of teas) and seaweed extracts, this spray will protect and quench all thirsty skins. And the fragrance is so fresh and clean, you almost can’t stop smelling it. But it’s so much more than even that! Use Pom Mist in combination with sun-protective Jane Iredale mineral bases to create a natural anti-aging shield against free radicals. $39.00

3. Natio Renew Radiance Range
Pure essence of Pomegranate & Vitamin C help to illuminate the skin with a beautiful glow. Nature’s two most potent antioxidants work together to protect the skin from environmental stress, enabling the skin to stay younger for longer. The exfoliator also contains AHA’s to gently loosen outer layers of dead skin to highlight a bright, healthy complexion. Containing 5 products in the line; Foam Cleanser $13.95, Exfoliator $15.95, Day Cream $16.95, Night Cream $16.95, Eye cream $15.95.

4. John Masters Organics Pomegranate Facial Nourishing Oil
This blend of 12 organic plant & essential oils instantly penetrates & nourishes dry skin. It can be used alone or added to any moisturizer for extra hydration. Pomegranate oil is a potent source of punicic and linolenic acids which improve the skin elasticity, reduce wrinkles and help to prevent premature aging.Also great for facial massages. $30.00

5. Kesca Body Candle Pomegranate Martini
These amazing smelling candles are all natural, wax and soot free and contain soybean oil, Vitamin E and Lecithin, vegetable colouring and cotton wicks. The aromas are derived from pure essential oils, extracts and essences of the plant, flower or fruit they are named after. The candles melt at only 2 degrees above body temperature which allows the oil to be poured directly onto the skin, making it an excellent, deeply moisturising skin treatment. $25.00

6. Palmolive Naturals Invigorating Shower Gel with Pomegranate and Mango
Containing only the finest ingredients to help leave your skin feeling soft and smooth every time you shower. It is enriched with natural extracts of Pomegranate and Mango; both renowned for their antioxidant properties in helping to maintain healthy and radiant skin. Also contains special moisture beads to help hydrate and care for your skin as you shower, leaving you feeling replenished from head to toe! $8.99 and is available in supermarkets and some pharmacies now!

7. Jane Iredale Pure Pressed Base
Pure Pressed Base is a four-in-one foundation, powder, concealer and broad spectrum SPF 20 sunscreen. Pine bark extract, vitamin E and algae extract hydrate skin and combat free radicals, while titanium dioxide and zinc oxide protect skin from the sun. Pomegranate extract boosts sunscreen protection and acts as a natural preservative. $83.00

8. BABOR Moist Intense Cream
Our skin cells are connected by thousands of microfine water channels, which transport moisture down to the deepest levels of our skin. As we grow older, these channels decline in number, reducing the supply of moisture to our skin. This cream has extracts of pomegranate that help restore the natural circulation of water in the skin, allowing moisture to travel between the cells and skin layers. Hyaluronic acid has been added to bind in moisture to fight dehydration and Eaqucacteen (Mexican cactus) included to increase moisture & further hydrate. Can be used day and night for most skin types. $104.00