Why use kiwifruit in cosmetic formulations?

Kiwifruit is a popular fruit, often eaten raw or cooked: compote, fresh fruit, fruit salad or jam. But did you know that kiwifruit, as well as being a treat for the taste buds, is packed with health benefits ? Widely used in the cosmetics industry, discover all the benefits of kiwifruit in cosmetic formulations.

The history of the kiwifruit

With its scientific name Actinidia chinensis, kiwifruit originated in China and was called “Yang Tao”. This name echoes the river that flows through China, the Yang Tsé Kiang where the first kiwis appeared on the banks. Conquered by its tangy, sweet taste, the kiwifruit was later adopted by the people of New Zealand, who called it the “Chinese gooseberry”. Then, when distribution in the US was envisaged, the name was reworked to make it more attractive. This new name resonates with New Zealand’s emblem, a bird with the same name that shares many similarities with the fruit: they’re both small, brown and fluffy!

After much experimentation, it wasn’t until 1972 that the first kiwifruit was harvested in France. The south-west of France, with its climate and exposure to the sun, is better suited to growing kiwifruit , and now accounts for 75% of national production.

The cosmetic properties of kiwifruit for the skin

Kiwifruit is a coveted fruit for cosmetics formulators because of its high vitamin content. This fruit is a natural source of vitamin C, vitamin E and provitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6). Its composition is a goldmine for cosmetics formulators , who use kiwifruit  for its antioxidant virtues : it is the ideal ally for protecting the skin and preventing cell ageing.

Thanks to its high vitamin C content, kiwifruit helps to strengthen the lipid barrier in the dermis by regulating the moisture secreted by the skin. In this way, the skin remains moisturised and protected from the excess sebum responsible for acne. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, kiwifruit stimulates fibroblasts, providing protection against oxidative stress. Kiwifruit improves skin elasticity, fights skin ageing and prevents dark spots. It’s the fruit to go for if you want to do your skin good and boost the radiance of your complexion!

Parts to be used in cosmetic formulations

Depending on the properties you are looking for and the product you wish to formulate, certain parts of the kiwifruit are preferable. For example, kiwifruit seeds can be used for skin care. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, they are often processed into kiwifruit seed oil. Used in formulations, kiwifruit seeds help to combat skin ageing by providing the moisture it needs. Ground into a powder, kiwifruit seeds can be used to scrub the face and body. They help to get rid of dead cells and smooth skin texture, making it a gentle and effective exfoliant for protecting and cleansing the skin from external aggression. But the seeds aren’t the only parts of the kiwifruit plant that contain benefits: formulations based on the leaves are also rich in antioxidants. This is what Groupe Berkem, a specialist in plant extraction, has developed through the formulation of a new active ingredient: Ki’Leaft®.

Ki’Leaft® , a cosmetic active ingredient based on kiwifruit leaves

Ki’Leaft®  isa 100% natural, upcycled kiwifruit leaf extract , grown under controlled conditions and certified organic. Our skin acts as a protective barrier between the body and the outside environment, so it is exposed to aggression every day (UV rays, pollution, oxidative stress, etc.). Ki’Leaft® is a cosmetic active ingredient with the virtue of cell renewal. Rich in sugars and containing polyphenols, Ki’Leaft® offers an immediate tightening effect, helps regenerate the skin, reinforces its barrier function and structure and has a strong antioxidant capacity. Ki’Leaft®, a kiwi fruit leaf-based active ingredient, is the ideal choice for providing complete protection for the skin and combating the effects of ageing.  To find out more, visit the Ki’Leaft® product page.