Radiant Revival: Mulberry & Licorice for Complexion Harmony

During pregnancy, it’s common for women to experience the “pregnancy mask”. This is caused by increased levels of oestrogen and progesterone that trigger melanocytes (the cells in the body that produce pigment). Known as melasma or hyperpigmentation, it causes dark patches to appear around the mouth, cheeks and forehead, and gives the complexion an uneven appearance.  

Postpartum skin will depend on how your hormones re-balance. That said, due to a huge change in lifestyle and tiredness (lack of sleep!), new mums often notice that their skin is dull and lacking radiance.  To address these prevalent skin issues, and help mums-to-be and new mums look and feel their best, we at Little Butterfly London include naturally brightening mulberry and licorice extracts in our blossoms in spring illuminating day cream and secrets at starlight illuminating night cream. 

Mulberry extract - moras alba:

Used over centuries for its medicinal properties, mulberry extract is a nourishing ingredient that’s rich in vitamins. It inhibits tyrosinase (the active enzyme that triggers the production of melanin), so that new areas of hyperpigmentation are interrupted from appearing on the upper layers of the skin. 

Being highly antioxidant, mulberry extract is helpful in reducing the signs of environmental damage, such as fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity. Its other main function is to calm stressed or irritated skin.

Licorice extract - glycyrrhiza glabra:

Used for its health benefits since ancient China, licorice extract also inhibits tyrosinase to combat dark spots and uneven appearance. It contains liquiritin that disperses existing melanin - helping new dark patches from forming, while fading existing ones. 

One of licorice extract’s components, known as glabridin, is a powerful antioxidant and natural soother - making it ideal for sensitive or red skin. It also helps to regulate oil production.

 

Combined, these two brightening extracts help to:

• Prevent the appearance of hyperpigmentation
• Fade dark spots and discolouration
• Improve skin evenness
• Protect the skin from environmental stressors
• Reduce the signs of premature ageing
• Calm inflamed, sensitive or red skin
• Add radiance and give the complexion a more healthy, youthful look

Please note: Although hyperpigmentation is usually harmless and shouldn’t give cause for concern, you should check your skin regularly. If you are concerned about any skin changes, seek advice from your GP or dermatologist.