Amber Extract

For centuries, exotic amber has long been attributed with having magical or healing energetic properties. In ancient times, amber stones were sometimes worn as a charm, or carried in a small pouch to protect the wearer against evil or other unwanted ailments. Amber incense was even believed to have medicinal properties for calming and soothing the mind. Today, modern beauty science has found yet another use for amber: as a superhero ingredient, that aids in turning back time.

As an ingredient, amber extract works to rejuvenate these metabolic processes at a cellular level, helping to rebalance pH levels and prevent excess water loss. Additionally, amber’s antioxidant properties help protect the skin against environmental stress, pollutants and other toxins. It aids in boosting skin immunity and preventing free radical damage over time.

Amber
Amber was first considered a highly valuable commodity by ancient scholars, then later by the Greek philosophers, Aztecs, Mayans and many other civilizations throughout history. In 1712, King Frederick I of Prussia popularized amber for decorative uses, when he commissioned an entire banquet room made of amber panels.

Although it is sometimes categorized as a gemstone, amber is technically a pine resin formed by now fossilized trees, dating back millions of years. According to archeologists, amber has been used since the earliest times. It was first used for incense but also as a material for carving into beads, jewelry, and other artifacts. 

Amber deposits have been found throughout the world and studied intensely, due to the resin’s ability to encapsulate other fossils and provide information about prehistoric eras. One of the most well-known sources of amber is the Baltic Sea. The type of amber found there is called Amber Succinite because it contains high levels of succinic acid.

Cosmetic chemists classify amber extract as a hair and skin conditioning agent with potent antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The reason for this is the substantial amount of succinic acid found in amber. Today, more and more dermatologists recognize its benefits for treating everything from acne to aging. Skincare experts cite it as a better alternative to salicylic acid or alpha-hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, which can be too aggressive for sensitive or mature skin. Succinic acid, on the other hand, is ideal for most skin types because it gently exfoliates the skin, boosting cellular turnover without causing irritation.

Succinic acid has properties very similar to our skin’s own oils and lipids. As we age, many of the skin’s natural processes begin to slow. Collagen and elastin fibers break down with time, and the body produces less new collagen each year. Cellular turnover rates decrease, so the skin takes longer to heal, or shed dead skin without the aid of skincare treatments that stimulate the process. The skin’s natural oil and moisture production also decline with age. That’s why succinic acid is used to rebalance oil production and promote deep hydration within the epidermis. Its anti-inflammatory benefits make it ideal for chronic skin conditions such as eczema and acne.
 
Using succinic acid in skincare has been linked to many additional benefits including skin smoothing, softening and healing for reactive skin. Dermatologists also note that it is able to produce quick results without creating any disruption to skin health.
 
GLACYO’s Ultimate Duo
GLACYO’s two signature products were inspired by the amazing properties of amber extract, and its ability to holistically nourish the skin. GLACYO is a mineral skincare line that balances natural ingredients with modern skincare science.

Founders Angelic Luong and Dr. Nhat Nguyen have sourced some of the world’s highest-performing bio-active ingredients to create clean, sustainable, cruelty-free skincare that delivers results. Their unique clean formula is the only one in the world of its kind, blending the succinic acid-rich amber extract with glacial marine mineral water and botanical oils.
The Amber Extract Serum infuses the skin with amber extract, 69 glacial marine minerals, youth-boosting vitamins C, E and B5, as well as hydrating hyaluronic acid. The Amber Extract Eye Cream utilizes amber extract and glacial marine mineral water in addition to Bakuchiol - a safe natural alternative to Retinol products. The result is a reduced appearance of fine lines as well as a brighter, more toned and rejuvenated complexion.

Taking care of the skin to reduce and slow signs of aging is something you can begin at any age. That said, getting to know your skin is a process that can take time. Your skin’s needs will also change and evolve. The earlier you begin your skincare journey and begin to develop an intuitive relationship with your skin, the more you will come to perfect your own personal rituals and reap the benefits of a consistent skincare practice.

 

 

References:

"Amber” by How Products are Made, Volume 7

http://www.madehow.com/Volume-7/Amber.html 

"Amber: A Fossilized Tree Resin" The Swedish Amber Museum Home Page By Leif Brost

http://www.brost.se/eng/education/facts.html

International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients Directory: Amber Extract

https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/inci/amber-extract

“I Used Buzzy Ingredient Succinic Acid For 4 Weeks & It Changed My Skin” by Jessica Harris

https://www.refinery29.com/en-gb/succinic-acid-skin-benefits

“The 5 Key Skincare Ingredients You Need To Know About For 2021” By Hannah Coates

https://www.vogue.co.uk/beauty/article/skincare-ingredients-2021