Rhododendron: Beauty Secrets from the Peaks

The majestic peaks of the Alps are home not only to breathtaking scenery, but also to an exceptional and diverse flora. Among these alpine treasures is the rhododendron, commonly known as the " Alpine Rose". This amazing plant holds precious cosmetic properties that have seduced the beauty industry. In this article, we'll delve into the enchanting world of alpine rose and discover why it's becoming a much-desired active ingredient in skincare products.

The alpine rose is one of Switzerland's most emblematic alpine plants, along with edelweiss and gentian. The alpine rose is an evergreen shrub that can live for over 100 years. It grows at high altitudes (up to 2800 m).

Beyond its visual appeal, rhododendron hides biologically active compounds that have attracted the attention of the cosmetics industry.

Photo Nicoline Follonier

An unknown cosmetic treasure

Rhododendron ferrugineum is a popular medicinal plant used to treat rheumatism and blood pressure. 

Scientists have discovered that this plant develops unique defense mechanisms to survive in its demanding alpine habitat. Extreme environmental conditions, including exposure to intense UV rays and freezing cold, have prompted rhododendron to produce powerful protective compounds.

Our active ingredient is a purified extract of organic alpine rose leaves with the following properties:

• Reduces redness
• Increases skin elasticity. A clinical study conducted by our supplier demonstrated a 16.1% increase in skin elasticity after 28 days of treatment.
• Protects skin proteins from oxidative stress

Skin redness is reduced and skin elasticity is improved for a more youthful appearance. This active ingredient protects the skin against photoaging and improves skin tone.

Photo Florian Dessimoz, Anne-Laure Dessimoz & Tuor via Pixabay

Transparency of origin and sustainability

In Switzerland, there are 2 types of rhododendron: 

• Rhododendron ferrugineum (Rhododendron ferrugineum L.)
• Ciliated rhododendron (Rhododendron hirsutum L.)

As its name suggests, the ciliated rhododendron can be recognized by the cilia on its leaves. It grows mainly in limestone areas.

On the contrary, rhododendron ferrugineum does not like limestone. Our active ingredient comes from rhododendron ferrugineum.

The leaves of alpine roses are hand-picked in the Swiss Alps, at an altitude of around 2,000 meters. Our supplier works with a farmer in the canton of Grisons. This practice is completely sustainable, since the leaves are regenerated the following year.

Final remark

The alpine rose, or rhododendron, embodies the wild beauty and resilience. Like other alpine plants, it has developed impressive strategies for surviving in this environment.

By transforming its defense mechanisms into cosmetic treasures, the beauty industry has discovered a natural ingredient with multiple benefits. Each of our products made with rhododendron contains the heritage of majestic alpine peaks.