We are lucky enough to be living in a country where Mother Nature has blessed us with an abundance of unique ingredients that can heal, protect and nourish our skin.
Here at re.skin we’re all about harnessing the powerful properties of nature, particularly from New Zealand, to create active skincare with real results. One ingredient like no other that we’re most passionate about is Totarol - a lesser known home grown plant extract that’s rapidly gaining traction in the skincare world.
What is Totarol?
A super-antioxidant that’s three times stronger than vitamin E, Totarol comes from the heartwood of the native New Zealand Totara Tree. At over 1,000 years-old, it’s New Zealand’s oldest tree and its microbial properties and resistance to decay has long been leveraged throughout history spanning back to early European settlement. In skincare, the potent botanical extract is utilised for its strong antimicrobial and preservative properties.
We source only from high quality organic Totara wood and bark, harming no live trees to produce Totarol. You’ll find Totarol in our re.skin re.form serum.
Key benefits
1. Helps destroy free radicals
Free radicals are unstable and destructive atoms in the atmosphere – think air pollution, radiation, unprotected sun exposure - that can inflict DNA damage onto cells causing premature aging. When free radicals come into contact with your skin it puts your body into oxidative stress, requiring antioxidants to reverse the stress. That’s where Totarol comes in. It’s brimming with skin-loving antioxidants, which help to restore balance in the skin and combat fine lines and wrinkles.
2. Acne-fighting
Due to its natural antimicrobial properties, scientific studies have proven Totarol effective in preventing and alleviating a number of bacterial infections including acne. With prevalence of adult acne on the rise, Totarol is an effective two-in-one ingredient that targets both acne and ageing.
3. Anti-inflammatory and non-irritating
A natural anti-inflammatory, Totarol has been found to be both healing and soothing for irritated skin. With skin sensitivity at an all-time high, non-irritating ingredients like Totarol are becoming increasingly sought after. Thankfully, it’s super gentle so if your skin leans towards sensitive it’s a safe bet.
4. Hydrating
Totarol mimics many of the benefits of Vitamin E including its moisturising properties.
5. Protects the skin barrier
Also, like vitamin E, Totarol strengthens skin barrier function. What is the skin barrier and why does it need protecting? The skin has three main layers: the epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. The skin barrier refers to the outermost layer of the epidermis, which helps protect your skin from harsh elements and retain moisture. The skin barrier operates optimally when it’s intact. Signs of a healthy skin barrier are visible in the complexion as well as how it functions (i.e. responds to irritation, wounds, sebum production, sun exposure). Due to irritants penetrating the skin, a damaged and weakened skin barrier usually appears dry and blemished.
