Marigold

L'calendula extract is obtained from the flower heads of Calendula officinalis, the orange flower also known as pot marigold. It belongs to the family of soothing plant ingredients and is one of those cases in which modern research has given a precise name to what herbal tradition had known for centuries.

The key molecule is faradiol, a triterpene that reduces the skin's response to irritating stimuli. Alongside it, carotenoids and flavonoids with antioxidant action, as well as mucilages that form a moisturizing film, also work: three different mechanisms that converge on the same result—a complexion that reacts less and looks more even.

It is used on sensitive and easily reddened skin, in cleansers to limit the degreasing effect, and in body products after sun exposure or hair removal. It works within the product in which it is formulated, every day, without any particular frequency requirements.

It is one of the most versatile ingredients in plant-based cosmetics: it is suitable for the face and body, rinse-off products and leave-on products, and works well alongside both soothing actives and more demanding ones. Calendula belongs to the Asteraceae family, like chamomile, ragweed, and mugwort: anyone allergic to those pollens should try it first on a small area.