By Marley Archibald
If you’ve been an Elderberry Co. fan for virtually any length of time, then at this point, you are probably already well aware of the immune-boosting benefits of elderberry. Elderberries are a powerful superfood supporting your immune system and respiratory, digestive, and joint health. What you may not know, though, is that elderberries aren’t just great at supporting your body from the inside; elderberries can also have amazing benefits for your skin, too! Looking to have a DIY self-care day? Look no further… keep reading to learn about the beautifying benefits of elderberry and how you can use this powerhouse to make nourishing, clarifying face masks.
So, we already know how supplements such as Elderberry Syrup or Elderberry Gummies work to support your overall wellness. How exactly can elderberries help your skin? Really, in a pretty similar way! Elderberries are jam-packed with antioxidants that are known to help fight free radicals, which are linked to wrinkles, premature aging, dark spots, uneven skin tone, and sagging skin. Similarly, the anti-inflammatory properties of elderberry can help calm and refresh irritated, sensitive skin. Elderberry derives its anti-inflammatory benefits from its high anthocyanin content, which can further guard your skin against sun damage from harmful UV rays. Lastly, the vitamins and minerals that elderberry is known for– vitamins A and C– are particularly good at brightening the skin and promoting cell regeneration, leaving your skin glowing and supple.
How can you incorporate elderberries into your skincare routine? Face masks! Most of the ingredients you will already have right in your kitchen. Grab a bowl, put on some relaxing music, and enjoy this at-home spa day!
For Dry/Dull Skin
- Rehydrate 1 Tablespoon of Dried Elderberries in hot water.
- Once plump, drain the berries of excess liquid and mash the berries into a paste.
- Add 1 teaspoon of Raw Honey, 3-4 Tablespoons of plain Greek yogurt, and ½ teaspoon of turmeric to the elderberry paste.
- Mix together, and apply to the face. Leave on for 15 minutes, gently removing with warm water and a washcloth.
For Oily/Acne Prone Skin
- Rehydrate 2 Tablespoons of Dried Elderberries in 3 Tablespoons of hot water, making a concentrated elderberry liquid.
- After steeping for 15-20 minutes, strain the berries from the liquid and squeeze out any extra. Reserve the liquid.
- Mix together the 3 Tablespoons of elderberry concentrate with 3 Tablespoons of a face mask clay, and apply to the face.
- Leave on for no more than 10 minutes, or until your skin begins to feel tight. Gently remove with warm water and a washcloth, being sure to follow up with a nourishing Face Moisturizer.
2 comments
Hey there, Lana! Great question— cyanogenic glycosides are primarily just a concern when ingesting elderberries, rather than any type of topical uses. Even for topical use though, drying the elderberries removes many of the cyanogenic compounds from the berry! So, as long as you are using dried berries, there is nothing to worry about— you would just want to take the extra step of boiling them if they were to be eaten. We hope this helps, and let us know if you have any other questions/concerns!
Hi, sounds amazing but, I’m concerned about the cyanogenic glycosides in Elderberries!!! Since we aren’t boiling the berries before using them on our skin.
Thank you!