Why you should include malachite crystal in your skincare routine

In an era where a new ingredient pops up on our social media feeds and the back labels of our skincare every other day, it can be difficult to keep up. Now, there is a new skin superhero on the block, and you will be surprised to know, it has existed for centuries. Malachite, a glittering green crystal that was used in ancient Egypt as a guardian stone and is popular in the crystal community in modern times, has been in the skincare universe for some time now 

Read ahead to discover more about the gemstone, its numerous benefits, and the best way to use it for youthful skin. 

What is malachite?

Associated more with the wellness industry than the skincare world, malachite crystal is a sea green-coloured semi-precious stone known for its detoxifying properties in crystal healing practices. Made of copper carbonate hydroxide, it contains nearly 60 per cent copper in its purest form. Since copper is one of the new ingredients being prized for its anti-ageing effects, it’s unsurprising that the skincare industry is embracing the myraid benefits of malachite. 

How does malachite benefit your skin?

In skincare, malachite acts as a powerful antioxidant, much like vitamin A (retinol) and vitamin C, safeguarding the skin from free radicals present in pollution and sunlight, which can lead to wrinkles, sun spots, and sagging. Moreover, copper also promotes collagen production, resulting in firmer and more elastic skin. And since copper is known for its detoxifying properties, it can also reduce inflammation and irritation in the skin, calming redness. Finally, malachite also hydrates the skin by strengthening the skin barrier. 

How to incorporate malachite in your skincare routine?

Malachite is easiest and safest to use when it is part of the product’s formula, instead of in its pure form. We recommend the Estée Lauder Resilience Lift Night Lifting/Firming Face and Neck Crème if you want a nourishing night cream for plump and glowing skin the next day, and the Aminu AHA Power Peel if you’re looking for a product that gently exfoliates and hydrates at the same time. Apply it to damp skin after your toners and before your moisturiser. While hyaluronic acid is malachite’s best friend and boosts its benefits, avoid pairing it with vitamin C as the copper in the malachite can interact negatively with the vitamin. 

Also read: 8 peptide-infused products that you should add to your skincare routine

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