Cocoa: 4 reasons to use it in beauty

 

Treasure for the taste buds, this small bean from South America is used in the composition of many cosmetics. But depending on whether it is butter, powder or extract, its benefits on the skin are different… We help you see clearly.

Butter, nourishing

Rich in saturated fatty acids, it is one of the essential ingredients for dry and fragile skin. It is used on the face to soften and maintain the suppleness of the skin, it is found in lip balm formulas – in particular for its protective powers – and it is used in the composition of body balms and moisturizing hand creams. . But it also has benefits for the hair: it is perfect as a mask to nourish dry and damaged ends.

Powder, toning

The powdered cocoa bean is particularly effective in regenerating the epidermis. Its concentration in theobromine, minerals and caffeine allows it to support cell renewal, while having a firming action. This is why it is often found in scrubs or revitalizing masks. Attention, to be sure to have a quality care, make sure that the powder is labeled 100% pure, organic and if possible raw. As the bean has not been heated, it retains all its properties.

The extract, antioxidant

Rarer, but just as effective, some beauty products include pure cocoa extract in their formula. Taken directly from the heart of the unroasted bean, it is packed with antioxidants. It even contains much more than goji berries or grapes. In a serum or in a cream, this extract will thus improve the appearance of the epidermis, restore its suppleness but also even out the complexion and make it brighter.

The expert's opinion

"From the age of 25, the activity of cells in the epidermis slows down, causing a loss of collagen density and the appearance of the first signs of aging: dehydration, wrinkles, loss of firmness. Supplementing with cocoa is an excellent way to boost your anti-aging skincare. Rich in antioxidant flavonoids, cocoa prevents premature aging. And if combined with marine collagen, this anti-wrinkle action is increased."

Thanks to Mathilde Lacombe, founder of Aime Skincare

Editor's selection

Repairman. White Cocoa Vegetable Butter, Aroma-Zone, €4.90.

Aroma-Zone

Plumping. Food supplement Cacao Glow, Aime, 25€.

Love

Lifting. Xocoa+ serum, Theobroma, €48.90.

Theobroma

Thanks to Paul Nicolas, founder of Theobroma and Emilie Jolibois, Aroma-Zone Cosmetic Ingredient Research Expert.