Lepidium Meyenii Root Extract

Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca, is a root vegetable native to the Andes region of Peru, where it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years. Maca root extract is rich in essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins (including vitamin C), and minerals such as copper, iron, and calcium, alongside bioactive compounds including polyphenols and macamides.In skincare formulations, maca root extract functions as a skin conditioning agent. Its nutrient profile and bioactive compounds are thought to support skin health, though its primary cosmetic role is to improve skin feel and moisture re…

Maca root extract works primarily through its nutrient density and bioactive compound profile. The polyphenols and macamides present in the extract are believed to neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress on the skin. Additionally, the amino acids and fatty acids condition the skin barrier, improving hydration and smoothness.The extract also appears to support the skin's natural defence mechanisms, though the exact mechanisms by which maca influences skin health remain incompletely understood in a cosmetic context.

Maca root extract is typically found in concentrations of around 0.1% in commercial skincare products, where it functions as a supporting ingredient rather than a primary active. It works well in serums, moisturisers, and masks designed to nourish and condition the skin. As with any plant extract, introduce it gradually if you have sensitive skin and observe how your skin responds over a few weeks of regular use.

Maca root extract is generally well-tolerated in topical skincare. As with all botanical ingredients, there is a small risk of contact sensitisation in individuals with known allergies to plants in the Brassicaceae family.