INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT: PEARL POWDER
It's no secret that nature is our muse here at Shelby Naturals – we are constantly inspired by the potent botanicals mama earth provides that beautify our skin & nourish our bodies. There is one ingredient, though, that has truly been exciting us as of late. Pearls! This oceanic substance is luminous and strong, and as it turns out, it can have that very same effect on our skin.
Pearl Powder or Zhen Zhu ("Precious Ball") has been used for over 2000 years as a natural exfoliant and complexion brightener. Beginning in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, fresh and saltwater pearls were boiled (for sterilization) and then milled into a soft fine powder with a texture similar to flour. This mineral-rich powder was then used in skincare, makeup, supplements, and even toothpaste for its properties that detoxify, relax, and cleanse impurities.
In modern-day, we are still learning about the plethora of benefits pearl powder offers. This study found that pearl powder can temporarily shrink pores, decrease redness, and improve skin texture when applied topically. We've also learned that pearl's active proteins aid in skin regeneration, increase cell turnover, and have an anti-inflammatory effect on the skin, making it an excellent solution for acne-prone individuals and those focused on anti-aging.
Our favorite way to apply it is in a face mask composed of raw organic honey and high-quality pearl powder. You'll notice after lathering it on that your skin quite literally eats it up! After ten or so minutes, you can rinse it off & feel a supple, plump, calm result in your complexion. We also love to mix pearl powder into our Collagen Vanilla Drink for an internal boost of calcium & magnesium, which is excellent for reducing stress, anxiety, and nerves.
Whether on the skin or in a latte, we have been loving the boost of nourishment pearl powder provides. Our hope with this information is not only to elevate your beauty routine, but to inspire a self-care rooted in intention, empowerment, and nature-derived ingredients.
Ashley Lange is a certified IHP (Integrative Health Practitioner), wellness innovator, and writer based in San Diego, CA. When she’s not with her pup at dog beach or in the mountains skiing with family, she enjoys empowering others through research-forward writing and holistic skin education.
Sources //
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8197316/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8095667/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30950303/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10798323/