Microcirculation: The key to healthy, radiant skin
Introduction
Microcirculation is a fundamental component of our skin health, but it is often underestimated. It describes the flow of blood through the smallest vessels in our body, known as capillaries. These delicate structures have a diameter of only 5 to 8 micrometres and enable the direct exchange of oxygen, nutrients and metabolic products between the blood and tissue. Healthy microcirculation ensures that our skin cells are optimally supplied and waste products are efficiently removed. If this process becomes unbalanced, the skin appears tired, dull and loses its elasticity.
Microcirculation is a true miracle of nature
Capillaries are tiny, cylindrical blood vessels that branch off from arterioles and flow into venules. They form a dense, three-dimensional network in the skin. A special muscular ring, the precapillary sphincter, regulates the flow of blood in these vessels.
Microcirculation performs key tasks such as supplying the organs with blood, regulating body temperature and adapting blood flow to local needs. During physical exertion in particular, blood flow increases many times over, which leads to improved oxygen supply.
Microcirculation and skin appearance
Healthy microcirculation is essential for fresh, smooth skin. If disturbances occur – for example, due to stress, smoking, age or environmental pollution – cell renewal is inhibited. The skin then appears dull, uneven and tired. Reactivated blood flow, on the other hand, improves the supply of nutrients to the skin cells, activates cell metabolism and gives the complexion a new radiance.
Current active ingredients for promoting microcirculation
Modern cosmetic research has identified numerous active ingredients that can effectively improve microcirculation. Here is a selection of particularly effective ingredients:
1. Niacinamide (vitamin B3):
Niacinamide is a water-soluble, white, crystalline powder with the chemical formula C₆H₆N₂O. It has a melting point of approximately 128–131 °C and is highly soluble in water. Its INCI name is ‘niacinamide’. Other names include nicotinamide and vitamin B₃. Niacinamide promotes blood circulation, has anti-inflammatory properties and strengthens the skin barrier. This makes it an ideal active ingredient for supporting microcirculation.
2. Caffeine
Caffeine is a white, crystalline powder with a high melting point of 238 °C and is chemically described as C8H10N4O2. It is highly soluble in water and known for its stimulating effect on blood circulation. In cosmetics, caffeine helps to improve microcirculation, reduce water retention and reduce swelling, for example under the eyes.
3. Ginkgo biloba extract
This plant extract is obtained from the leaves of the ginkgo tree and contains valuable flavonoids and terpene lactones. It is usually available in powder form, is partially water-soluble and has the INCI name ‘Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract’. Ginkgo is known for its antioxidant properties and its ability to improve capillary blood flow in a targeted manner – a real booster for microcirculation.
4. Ruscus aculeatus extract (prickly butcher’s broom)
Ruscus extract contains the bioactive saponins ruscogenin and is available in powder form. It improves the elasticity of blood vessels, reduces oedema and supports microcirculation, especially in tired legs or swollen eyes.
5. Escin (from horse chestnut)
Escin is a mixture of triterpene saponins with the chemical formula C₅₅H₈₆O₂₄, which appears as a whitish-yellow powder. It has a vascular stabilising effect by strengthening the capillary walls and reducing their permeability. This promotes healthy microcirculation and has an anti-inflammatory effect at the same time.
Further applications for promoting microcirculation
Supporting microcirculation is not only beneficial in skin care. Impressive results have also been achieved in products for cellulite, dark circles under the eyes and scalp care. Increased capillary blood flow improves the supply of nutrients to the hair follicles and supports hair growth. Strengthening microcirculation thus contributes significantly to a healthy, vital appearance – from head to toe.
Microcirculation – everything at a glance
In summary, microcirculation refers to the flow of blood through the finest capillaries between arterioles and venules. Its main function is to exchange oxygen, nutrients and metabolic products with the surrounding cells. This process is essential for thermoregulation, cell renewal and general skin health. It can be specifically influenced by external factors such as age, environmental factors or even cosmetic ingredients. Typical problems such as a dull complexion or skin ageing are often caused by impaired microcirculation, which clearly underlines its importance for skin health.
Conclusion: cosmetics that get under your skin
Well-functioning microcirculation is crucial for healthy, youthful skin. Innovative cosmetics that specifically support this important process have the potential to visibly revitalise the skin. Whether for anti-ageing, cellulite care or skin refinement, the targeted stimulation of microcirculation brings real added value to modern care products.
Cosmacon GmbH supports companies in the development of highly effective cosmetic products with scientifically proven active ingredients that promote microcirculation.
For a quick start, our partner, Tojo Cosmetics GmbH offers a wide range of white label formulations – ideal for brands that want to get started right away with compelling products.
Enquire now and let’s develop cosmetic innovations together!