The exotic spice that cares for your skin

In the world of flavors, it is undeniable that spices are the soul of the kitchen. For example, cinnamon adds a lot of flavor to horchata, cloves and cumin elevate the flavors of birria, and vanilla adds a unique touch to all desserts. But the benefits of spices don’t end here; some even have skin benefits! You can also read: Is saffron the key to curing ulcerative colitis? The exotic spice that cares for your skinBeyond stews, desserts, and drinks, there are spices that offer significant health benefits, but also in the realm of beauty. On this occasion, we will talk about saffron, one of the most expensive spices in the world, as it is hand-harvested. Have you ever tried it? It is worth mentioning that, in recent years, saffron has positioned itself as a key ingredient in the world of skincare, as scientific studies have proven its effectiveness in skin care. Below, we explain in detail!Benefits of saffron for the skinAlthough saffron is a key ingredient when preparing paella and other Middle Eastern dishes, it is also a very powerful spice when it comes to skin care. Here’s why! 1. Expression lines due to dehydration As you probably know, good hydration is essential for skin care, but the best part is that saffron helps in this process. In this case, it is recommended to use creams that contain at least 3% saffron. 2. Fights wrinkles  The website Typology explains that saffron is very powerful in combating wrinkles and skin sagging. This is because “safranal, a molecule found in saffron extract, can block [...] the activity of three enzymes that catalyze the degradation of elastin, collagen, and hyaluronic acid.” In other words, saffron halts this process, which helps delay skin sagging and the appearance of wrinkles. 3. Antioxidant properties A scientific study published in 2018 confirms that saffron is a spice rich in antioxidants, making it an ingredient that protects your skin from external factors like UV rays. See more: Foods to increase collagen production and look young4. Prevents signs of aging. Another study published in 2018 confirms that the world’s most expensive spice contains substances that help prevent signs of aging, such as wrinkles and expression lines. 5. Say goodbye to hyperpigmentation If your skin has dark spots or hyperpigmentation, you can also opt for skincare products containing saffron, as the site Good Housekeeping explains that this spice makes the skin look more radiant and also lightens spots. Saffron is an enigmatic culinary ingredient harvested by hand and is one of the most expensive in the world, but it also contains powerful active ingredients that make it perfect for caring for your skin, increasing collagen production, and getting rid of spots. Finally, remember that although various scientific studies support saffron as an excellent option for skincare, it is always best to consult a dermatologist, who will tell you if the products containing this ingredient are ideal for your skin. Read more: This is how you can include collagen in your daily diet