How do we know if we want to see a certain ingredient on the back of our product\u2019s label?
\nIn this column, we shed light on the ingredients listed on our self-care products. We know how tough it can be to understand the gibberish that often disguised as an ingredient. In our mission to promote a healthy skin, lifestyle and world, we believe that the first step is advocating for educated consumption. Practice self-love by knowing exactly what you\u2019re putting in your body AND on your body.<\/p>\n
Synonym:<\/strong>\u00a0Hypericum perforatum\u00a0(botanical name)<\/p>\n Ever heard of St. John\u2019s wort? Well, it\u2019s a flowering plant native to Europe and Asia that has many medicinal properties that were first recognized by ancient Greek physicians. Over the centuries, it has been used in traditional folk remedies to treat scars, burns, wounds, and it can still be found in many skincare products today. Additionally, it has been shown to alleviate mild depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders.<\/p>\n While St john’s wort is most well-known for its anti-depressive ability, this herb is also beneficial for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant,\u00a0and antiviral properties. It has been found to improve wound healing and can aid in the treatment of atopic dermatitis, psoriasis and herpes simplex infections.<\/p>\n This most common side effect that worries people of St John\u2019s wort is photosensitivity.\u00a0It’s understood that hypericin, the active ingredient in St John’s wort, is highly photoreactive by nature. Research shows<\/a> that this occurs only when it\u2019s ingested orally, especially in higher amounts. This could be through prescribed or over the counter medication or teas. St John’s wort has many healing properties both topically and for treating mild depression internally. From what I found, photosensitivity can be a problem for those ingesting it. So if it\u2019s in your favourite skin care product, you shouldn\u2019t be too worried about it and use it as much as you like. How do we know if we want to see a certain ingredient on the back of our product\u2019s label? In<\/p>\nTopical benefits of St John’s Wort<\/h2>\n
The problem with photosensitivity<\/h2>\n
\nIt’s still unclear if topical application has the same photoreaction on the skin. This mean, any cosmetic or skin product that contains St John\u2019s wort is safe from the photosensitivity reaction.
\nSince it is so widely used as an anti-depressant (which you take orally), symptoms of photosensitivity can show up in different sized and shaped lesions, reddening of the skin, a rash or itch when exposed to ultraviolet rays. Although rare, it does occur and the most effective\u00a0way to prevent damage to your skin is by minimising exposure to direct sunlight and covering up when outdoors.<\/p>\nThe verdict<\/h2>\n
\nHowever, if you are the exception rather than the rule and experience any kind of photoreactive symptoms from you skin care that contains St Johns wort, stop use and seek advice from your health care provider.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"