ASCP Esty Talk Episode 294: "The Skin Benefits of Adaptogens: A Professional Perspective for Skin Care Practitioners"

Published: December 4, 2024
Host: Ella Cressman, Licensed Esthetician and International Educator
Guest: Maggie Stasik, Licensed Esthetician and ASCP Program Director

1. Introduction and Setting the Stage

In Episode 294 of ASCP Esty Talk, hosts Ella Cressman and Maggie Stasik delve into the burgeoning topic of adaptogens and their profound benefits for skin care professionals and their clients. Ella reminisces about her 2018 prediction regarding the rise of adaptogens in skincare, reflecting on her early observations in the CBD space and her continued passion for botanical ingredients like terpenes.

Ella Cressman [01:52]: "I made a prediction in 2018 that something else that's gonna be big is adaptogens. And I still stand by that."

2. Understanding Adaptogens: Definition and Core Benefits

Ella elaborates on the concept of adaptogens, emphasizing their role in maintaining homeostasis—the body's ability to adapt to stress and maintain balance. She uses the analogy of standing on a seesaw to illustrate how adaptogens help the body shift and stay balanced amidst daily disruptions.

Ella Cressman [02:26]: "Adaptogens... helps our body get that balance. We knock our bodies, our skin out of balance on a daily basis... by waking up. Even by sleeping on a pillow that's been laundered."

Maggie concurs, highlighting the rising conversations around the microbiome, sensitized skin, and diverse acne presentations, all areas where adaptogens can play a pivotal role.

3. The Rising Importance of Adaptogens in Skincare

The discussion underscores the increasing prevalence of stress-related skin concerns, exacerbated by global pressures and events like the COVID-19 pandemic. Ella points out that adaptogens are not entirely new but require deeper conversation and understanding within the skincare industry.

Ella Cressman [03:48]: "Adaptogens, I stand by my prediction that they're going to be a huge part of our profession... the conversation needs to be had so we can understand it."

4. Key Adaptogens and Their Specific Skin Benefits

Ella and Maggie explore various adaptogens, detailing their unique properties and benefits:

• Ashwagandha
• Reishi Mushroom
• Licorice Root
• Ginseng
• Holy Basil
• Schisandra Berry
• Cordyceps

Each adaptogen is discussed in terms of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin barrier-enhancing properties. Ella shares her personal affinity for mushroom-based products, such as mushroom coffee, citing improved energy and skin health.

Ella Cressman [05:18]: "They are natural substances and you can see them in herbs and mushrooms... Have you tried mushroom coffee yet?"

Maggie Stasik [12:03]: "Adaptogens such as rhodiola and ashwagandha support the endocrine system... balancing sebum output."

5. Adaptogens in Managing Specific Skin Conditions

The podcast delves into how adaptogens can address various skin conditions, including:

• Acne (including fungal acne)
• Rosacea
• Atopic Dermatitis
• Hyperpigmentation

Ella shares observations of increased rosacea cases, linking them to chronic inflammation—a major factor in aging skin.

Ella Cressman [07:03]: "Chronic inflammation is a significant contributor to advanced aging... I was even noticing this in a client who has acne. She's early 30s, but her skin also looks age."

Maggie adds that adaptogens help regulate sebum production, making them ideal for clients with oily, dry, or combination skin types.

6. Anti-Aging Benefits of Adaptogens

The conversation shifts to anti-aging, where adaptogens play a crucial role in stimulating fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis, thereby improving skin firmness and elasticity.

Maggie Stasik [15:07]: "For clients seeking anti-aging benefits, adaptogens are amazing. Ginseng and reishi mushroom... supporting microcirculation and enhanced cell turnover."

Ella reinforces the non-sensitizing nature of adaptogens, making them suitable for clients who prefer natural anti-aging solutions or cannot tolerate more aggressive treatments like alpha hydroxy acids.

Ella Cressman [16:02]: "These can be a clinical alternative... Adaptogens offer a unique non-sensitizing method for slowing down the signs of aging."

7. Integrating Adaptogens into Skincare Treatments

Ella and Maggie discuss practical strategies for incorporating adaptogens into treatment plans. They emphasize the synergy between topical formulations and home care routines, advocating for a holistic, results-oriented approach that addresses both internal and external stressors.

Ella Cressman [16:02]: "By incorporating adaptogenic ingredients into topical formulations and then using those formulations in facials and home care routines, we can provide clients with a holistic... results oriented care."

They highlight adaptogens' versatility in calming inflammation, protecting against environmental damage, and supporting anti-aging efforts, making them a valuable addition to any professional skincare strategy.

8. Real-World Applications and Client Considerations

The hosts share anecdotes and analogies to illustrate the resilience adaptogens can foster in the skin, comparing it to physical strength gained from training.

Ella Cressman [13:06]: "By boosting the resilience and the hydration levels, this helps to maintain my skin and is stronger... my skin looks pretty dang good I think for my age."

They also consider environmental factors, such as differing humidity levels in various climates, and how adaptogens can help clients adapt to these changes.

9. Conclusion and Community Engagement

Ella reiterates her 2018 prediction about the significance of adaptogens in skincare and invites listeners to engage with the ASCP community to share their experiences and thoughts on adaptogens.

Ella Cressman [16:02]: "Listeners, we really want to hear from you. What are your thoughts on Adaptogens? Reach out via Instagram, Facebook or send us an email@getconnectedscpskincare.com we want to know all the details."

She concludes by encouraging skincare professionals to explore adaptogens as a means to enhance their practice and deliver superior results to their clients.

Key Takeaways:

• Adaptogens are botanical compounds that help the body maintain balance and adapt to stress, offering significant benefits for skin health.
• They possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and skin barrier-enhancing properties, making them effective in managing various skin conditions and aging signs.
• Incorporating adaptogens into skincare treatments can provide a holistic, results-driven approach that addresses both internal and external factors affecting skin health.
• Adaptogens offer a natural, non-sensitizing alternative for anti-aging and skin balancing treatments, suitable for a wide range of clients.

Notable Adaptogens Discussed:

• Ashwagandha
• Reishi Mushroom
• Licorice Root
• Ginseng
• Holy Basil
• Schisandra Berry
• Cordyceps

For Further Engagement:

• Share your experiences and thoughts on adaptogens via Instagram, Facebook, or email at email@getconnectedscpskincare.com.
• Explore more about adaptogens and their applications in skincare by connecting with Ella and Maggie through the show notes or the ASCP network.

Stay Tuned: For more insightful discussions and expert advice, subscribe to ASCP Esty Talk and join the community of dedicated skincare professionals committed to advancing their knowledge and enhancing their practice.