Do superfoods equal super products? AVOCADO CAN WORK

Do superfoods equal super products?

From kale to quinoa, avocado and chia seeds, a number of new ingredients are popping up in cosmetics

When it comes to beauty products most of us try to read labels for ingredients. So when a product is rich in foods like kale, quinoa and chia seeds which are known for health benefits, most would rush out to try them. Quinoa, for example, is high in protein, magnesium and iron, and is a main ingredient in some moisturisers. Avocado is not only said to be good for skin but great as part of a hair conditioner or mask, adding moisture to dry strands. Kale, the leafy food is part of skin-brightening serums, creams and nail polish. Chia seeds make for a great serum for mature skin. But the question remains do these work as well as when consumed or is it a marketing gimmick?

MORE STUDIES NEEDED
Dr Abhay Talathi, dermatologist, Skin Space Clinic, says, “In my opinion, scientific studies conducted and performed to assess benefits and safety of these products are rare which makes us realise that use of these products needs to be cautious. Chia seed oil has certain fatty acids and may help in moisturising the skin hence keeping wrinkles and dry skin at bay. Quinoa contains certain proteins and can help in hair conditioning. Superfood products at present have doubtful cosmetic value in comparison to well tested products. Kale is said to contain Vitamin A, E and antioxidant properties but use of these properties through nail polish does not have enough research backing it up.”

AVOCADO CAN WORK
Dr Apratim Goel, consultant dermatologist and laser surgeon, Cutis Skin Studio, explains the benefits of each superfood. “Kale is a known antioxidant in the nutrition industry which is high in Vitamin C and helps keep the skin looking radiant. The high flavonoid content also produces anti-cancer effects not only for your skin but overall body as well. Kale juice has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which helps in preventing or treating hair loss and hair breakage as well. However, ingested kale is better than applied. Kale in nail polishes help in a very small percentage for nail heath due to its rich content of vitamin E,” she says, adding, “Quinoa has been used in cream forms and as a home-made face-mask blended in soy milk. It helps in anti-aging and acne treatment. It is rich in nine essential amino-acids, proteins and lysine. Hence, when ingested it helps a great deal. Avocado too is rich in potassium, vitamin E and Vitamin C which serve great skin benefits. People with acne also benefit with avocado masks with three drops of lemon added to it.”

KALE BETTER CONSUMED ORALLY
Dr Jaishree Sharad, cosmetic dermatologist feels that there is not adequate research to determine the degree to which these superfoods work in creams and hair products. “Avocado definitely seems promising as it is a moisturising agent and helps with fine lines. But the newer superfoods haven’t really been tested. Kale is great when consumed orally but not sure about its benefits in products. Chia seed oil contains omega 3 which protects the skin and helps prevent dehydration in the long run,” she says.

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