Alpine skincare powered by science
In both our Edelweiss Cream and Edelweiss Cleanser, we use a clinically researched Edelweiss extract: ALPAFLOR® EDELWEISS CB. This powerful ingredient is derived from the Edelweiss flower, which grows at high altitudes in the Alps and is known for its exceptional resistance to extreme weather conditions, UV radiation, and oxidative stress.
Precisely because the plant must continuously protect itself against external influences, Edelweiss contains a high concentration of protective antioxidants and active substances such as leontopodic acid, chlorogenic acid, and flavonoids. These substances help protect the skin against premature aging, external stress, and damage to the skin barrier.
What is glycation, and why does it accelerate skin aging?
A significant part of skin aging is a process called glycation. In this process, sugars in the skin react with collagen and elastin, forming so-called AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products). These damage the skin's structure, leading to loss of firmness, fine lines, wrinkles, and a duller appearance.
Research shows that glycation is one of the main causes of visible skin aging from around 35 years of age. It not only affects collagen but also weakens the skin barrier and increases skin sensitivity.
The Edelweiss extract in our formulas has been specifically studied for this type of skin aging.
Figure 1: Laboratory research showed that Edelweiss extract could reduce glycation by up to 47%.
The results show that Edelweiss extract not only helps protect against future damage but can also visibly help reduce existing glycation.
Clinically proven efficacy
In a double-blind placebo-controlled study, 66 female volunteers used a cream with 3% Edelweiss extract for 28 days. The results showed a clear improvement in the skin.
Figure 2: After 4 weeks of using Edelweiss extract, a significant reduction in AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) was measured compared to placebo.
AGEs are formed by glycation, a process in which sugars damage collagen and elastin. This accelerates visible skin aging such as wrinkles, sagging, and loss of firmness.
The strongest results were measured on:
- the forehead (5.3x more effective than placebo)
- the jawline (2.2x more effective than placebo)
- the entire face (2.5x more effective than placebo)
These results show that Edelweiss extract helps to visibly reduce biological skin aging.
Supports collagen and skin renewal
In addition to the visible results on the skin, the ingredient was also extensively studied in vitro. This showed that Edelweiss extract:
- Significantly increases the production of Collagen I
- Helps reduce glycated collagen
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- Helps neutralize oxidative stress
- Supports natural skin renewal
- Protects epidermal stem cells from external stress
Important skin barrier proteins such as involucrin and transglutaminase-1 were also significantly increased, which helps limit moisture loss and makes the skin more resistant to external influences such as pollution and UV damage.
Why we use Edelweiss
At Prescription Skincare, we believe that effective skincare should not only deliver visible results but also support and protect the skin in the long term.
That's why we use Edelweiss in both our Edelweiss Cream and Edelweiss Cleanser. The ingredient helps the skin:
- Protect against premature skin aging
- Support skin barrier repair
- Reduce oxidative stress
- Make the skin appear firmer and smoother
- Visibly reduce sensitivity
- Keep the skin healthy and balanced
Due to the combination of antioxidant protection, anti-glycation action, and support for the skin barrier, Edelweiss is a powerful ingredient for daily use, suitable for both sensitive and aging skin.
Figure 3: After 4 weeks of use, a clear reduction in wrinkles was measured, especially between the eyebrows (glabella) and around the upper lip.
The Edelweiss extract performed:
- 3x better than placebo on glabella wrinkles
- 2.5x better than placebo around the upper lip
These results confirm that Edelweiss extract helps to make the skin appear smoother, firmer, and more even.
The power of Alpine skincare
Edelweiss has long been a symbol of pure Alpine power. Thanks to modern clinical research, we now know that this special flower does more than just protect; it actively helps keep the skin stronger, smoother, and healthier.
References
The above information is based on clinical and in vitro studies of ALPAFLOR® EDELWEISS CB, conducted by DSM Nutritional Products AG. The studies investigated the effect of Edelweiss extract on skin aging, glycation, collagen production, skin barrier repair, and protection against oxidative stress.
Source:
DSM Nutritional Products AG — ALPAFLOR® EDELWEISS CB: Holistic Alpine Beauty Care for Skin Rejuvenation(2021).
