Ginger, yes the one you grate into your smoothies or sip in your teas, might be the next skin-care superstar. “The future for ginger for skin care could be quite bright,” says Eagan, MN dermatologist Charles Crutchfield III, MD. “Ginger shows great promise to solve many skin-care problems.”
Gingers biggest benefit? It’s antioxidant properties. “Most recently and importantly, ginger has been gaining recognition for its possible antioxidant properties, appearing in skin care in the form of topical oils, serums and creams, often in combination with other essential oils,” explains Bloomfield Hills, MI dermatologist Linda C. Honet, MD. Ginger also has the power to combat both hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. We talked to dermatologists about the myriad benefits of this powerful natural ingredient.
What is ginger?
“Ginger is a perennial flowering plant whose root or rhizome is not only ubiquitous in cooking but also very popular in naturopathic medicine. It is well known for its unique aromatic, spicy flavor that is well suited and commonly found in Asian cuisine,” says Dr. Honet. She notes that it’s also used to help alleviate nausea and minor gastrointestinal ailments. “Its long history as a home remedy found in teas and lozenges has been well established since antiquity,” adds Dr. Honet. With all of the benefits ginger boasts for the internal body, it’s no surprise many skin-care brands use the ingredient in their formulas.
It’s an antioxidant
Powerful antioxidants can do it all, and ginger is no exception. “Preliminary studies have indicated that ginger is a strong antioxidant that could be of great benefit for skin rejuvenation,” says Dr. Crutchfield. According to Miami dermatologist Dr. Deborah Longwill, ginger’s antioxidant properties have been shown to “help with inflammation, prevent free radical damage, even skin tone and minimize pores.” She goes on to say that due to these benefits incorporating ginger into your skin-care routine may result in a brighter, smoother complexion. Dr. Honet notes that the antioxidant properties of ginger may also improve UV damage and breakouts.
It can help hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation
If you’re looking to fade a pesky scar or lighten melasma, ginger may be a natural savior. Its antioxidant properties can help fade hypopigmented scars. According to Dr. Longwill, “ginger may help enhance blood flow which helps the skin heal light and superficial scars.” Its natural power is welcome in the wake of harsh pigmentation fighters.
It can help reduce cellulite
Cellulite can feel impossible to get rid of at home, but before you give up, give a ginger-based product a try. “It's always nice to have a natural product that can address many vexing skin-care needs,” says Dr. Crutchfield, referring to ginger. He notes that ginger is showing promise as an anti-cellulite treatment due, in part, to its ability to increase blood flow, which may also promote hair growth.
It’s anti-aging
“Ginger is a rejuvenation ingredient,” says Dr. Longwill. “Applying products containing superfood ginger to the skin may provide anti-aging benefits.” Dr. Honet notes that due to its antioxidant properties, ginger may improve aging and wrinkles.
It may be able to address dermatitis, acne and more
According to Dr. Crutchfield, ginger shows promise as an anti-inflammatory, which allows it to be beneficial for a handful of ailments. Dr. Crutchfield specifically points to dermatitis, dandruff and acne as some of the conditions this anti-inflammatory may be able to combat.
