Fern Extract Skin Benefits For Youthful Skin!


While out and about, whether on a hike or simply exploring your nearest wilderness, you may have observed ferns. They are so common that you may have seen them as plant decor, house plants, or even growing wild. But has it ever occurred to you that this same plant can be immensely beneficial for your skin? Scientifically proven, fern extract can be used both topically (on the skin) and consumed (as a supplement) to prevent skin cancer. Additionally, fern extract boasts antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunoregulator, and photo-protectant properties. Isn't it amazing that one little plant can hold so many wonders? What's more exciting is that you can incorporate these properties of fern with just a few simple steps. 

With the rising focus on natural skincare and vegan products for skin protection, Fern has emerged as a promising flag-bearer with multiple skin benefits. If you lead a lifestyle that steers clear of chemicals and artificial, man-made products but still desire healthy, glowing, and youthful skin, then fern extract for the skin is something you can get behind. 

So, join us as we explore how amazingly fern can work to protect your skin and how you can harness the benefits of fern extract for your skin in this blog!

Let’s Get To Know “Fern”

Polypodium leucotomos or fern, is a plant indigenous to Central and South America.1 

It belongs to the tropical fern of the Polypodiaceae family and was used by Native Americans and Spanish to treat and manage inflammatory disorders and skin diseases like atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. The local people would call the fern “calaguala” and its extract is known as “anapsos.”2,3 

Apart from this, the natural fern extract supplements have shown evidence to protect from photoaging (when sun damage prematurely ages the skin4) and inhibit collagen loss from the skin!5 All in all fern can help you retain youthful skin by protecting it from sun damage. 

Now we know that reading, you might want to know how you can use fern extract for skin and how it actually helps?- to get answers to these, you need to learn about skin aging first!

Skin Aging- Foe To Youthful Skin

You probably have guessed that if you want to achieve youthful skin then you need to get rid of skin aging. Now, you simply cannot stop time to prevent your skin from aging, however, what you can do is be precautious! You see, skin aging is inevitable, but…there are some things you can do to avoid it or delay it!  

Before we get you tips- including the use of fern extract for skin, allow us to help you understand what skin aging is, in detail! 

What Is Skin Aging?

Skin, much like all the organs of your body, tends to age as you grow older. The signs of skin aging include dryness, sagginess, fine lines, thinner skin, leathery texture, sun spots, etc.6,7 Now, there are various reasons for skin aging (time being the obvious one), which are broadly categorized into i) intrinsic factors and ii) extrinsic factors.

While intrinsic aging refers to the biological aging of the skin, extrinsic aging denotes environmental factors such as poor diet, pollution, smoking, and, most prevalent- sun exposure! The damage caused to skin by prolonged sun/ UV exposure is called “photodamage.”6  Now, the photodamage caused by sun is so harmful, that it not only causes pigmentation and skin aging but skin cancer too.7 Hence comes the role of fern extract for skin

Fern Extract For Skin: What And How? 

As discussed earlier, fern extract has been used in traditional medicine for years until very recently, its efficacy was scientifically proven by researchers. The fern extract is made from its leaves- which are present in the oral or topical format.8 

Now, let’s take a look at exactly how fern extract helps in protecting you from skin aging:

  • Fern extract has the ability to control free radicals and ions from causing an oxidative reaction. In simpler words, the molecules that travel with UV rays and land on your skin have the potential to mutate your skin cells (to cause cancer and skin aging); fern extract actively protects your skin from these molecules!9 
  • Moreover, it also prevents the depletion of Langerhans cells- the topmost guarding cells of your skin.9 
  • In another study, it was found that fern extract stimulated collagen levels in the skin.10 
  • Lastly, fern extract skin benefits also span to the prevention of inflammation and decrease in sunburn cells.9 

Consecutively, the fern extract not only shields you from photodamage and resultant skin aging but it also promotes collagen, helping you achieve youthful skin!

Fern Extract Skin Benefits For Youthful Skin

Skin benefits can be reaped by fern extract in the form of topical application and supplement; let’s explore both of these ways in the following: 

A) Fern Extract Topical Application

  • There are many brands claiming to consist of fern extract or polypodium leucotomos extract; however, you need to ensure that the product you choose is the real deal! To ensure that your product has genuine fern extract read the label and, if needed, consult your dermatologist on it.
  • You can also get sunscreen/sunblock products which have fern extract in them.
  • Make sure to use the fern extract-infused product (or as it is) 20 minutes before stepping out. 
  • Always apply fern extract after cleansing your face and before applying any moisturizer. 
  • Lastly, to include fern extract in your PM skincare routine, take advice from a dermatologist!

B) Fern Extract Oral Supplementation

  • Look for natural fern extract supplements, and if you’re confused about what you should be getting, seek your healthcare provider’s help.
  • Follow the instructions written on the package, or simply follow what your doctor says!
  • Don’t forget to apply sunscreen! Yes, even if you have taken fern extract oral supplement, it doesn’t mean that you won’t need sunscreen. 

Remember, consistency is the key, so don’t forget to be regular with your skincare product or oral supplementation to achieve youthful skin!

Fern Extract Skin Benefits: Special Cases

We know that in addition to boosting collagen- fern extract has a major role in the protection against photodamage (sun damage) and cancer mutation- this is the reason why some may need it more than others. 

Fern extract topical application and oral supplementation may work more effectively for you if you are:

  • Photosensitive- Tend to develop allergies, rashes, etc., when out in the sun.
  • Receiving photochemotherapy- a light treatment used for treating multiple skin-related disorders.11
  • A fair-skinned individual with a history of photodamage.
  • Looking for a naturopathic path to treat dermatitis, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, or vitiligo.  

Potential Side Effects Of Fern Extract

As per the studies, fern extract is considered safe to use or consume as a supplement; however, if you may experience any discomfort (after its topical use or supplementation) then seek immediate medical assistance. 

Furthermore, Male fern or supplements prepared by the same may be toxic in nature. We suggest you closely examine the content list before using the fern extract. Also as per the research, the recommended dosage for using natural fern extract supplements (or even other supplements) is 480 mg/ day.

You must be feeling equipped with fern extract, but if there are still some doubts running around in your mind, don’t worry! We have also answered some of the FAQs. 

10 Frequently Asked Questions Related To Fern Extract! 

Question 1: What is fern extract? 

Answer: Fern extract is derived from the leaves of polypodium leucotomos, which has various skin-related benefits.

Question 2: What are the key properties of fern extract? 

Answer: Fern extract has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, immunoregulatory, and photo-protectant properties. Additionally, it boosts collagen in the skin!

Question 3: How is fern extract beneficial for the skin? 

Answer: Fern extract not only protects your skin from UV rays, but it also helps decrease inflammation, prevent skin mutation, and promote collagen.

Question 4: Is fern extract suitable for all skin types?

Answer: Yes! However, be sure to consult with your dermatologist to be on the safer side.

Question 5: Can fern extract prevent skin cancer?

Answer: As per the scientific research and studies, yes, fern does really help in preventing skin cancer- given its (fern extract) used as a topical solution and oral supplementation.

Question 6: How can I incorporate fern extract into my skincare routine?

Answer: You can incorporate fern extract into your skincare routine by adding fern extract-infused products; just ensure to consult with your doctor.

Question 7: Are there any side effects of using fern extract?

Answer: There are rare registered cases of side effects concerning fern extract. However, to avoid getting any, you can do a patch test and consult your healthcare advisor before using topical solution or oral supplementation.

Question 8: Where can I buy fern extract? 

Answer: Fern extract can be easily found in your nearest pharmacy stores, online retailers, etc. Anyhow, if you’re not able to find it anywhere, you can simply take suggestions from your primary healthcare advisor.

Question 9: Can pregnant women use fern extract? 

Answer: Since there’s very limited to no data against the use of fern extract by pregnant women, it’s recommended that they not use it. However, if they want to, then having a prior discussion with the relevant gynecologist would be the correct way to do it.

Question 10: Can I get an allergy by using fern extract? 

Answer: Even though there are very few cases of this, one may develop an allergy by using fern extract. To ensure that you’re not allergic to fern (or any other listed product in your fern-infused skincare product) consider talking to your doctor before using it.

Parting Thoughts!

Here, we conclude by unveiling the secrets of the fern (Polypodium leucotomos)  extract for you! We hope that by going through this blog we have helped you to understand the natural way for keeping your skin youthful! 

Moreover, the fern extract is not just any ordinary skin care addition but a whole package- as it boosts collagen production (which assures skin elasticity), guards against skin cancer, and protects against ultraviolet rays! Furthermore, it can be used to treat various skin ailments; hence, it is nature’s holistic blessing for you. With the inclusion of this fern extract into your daily facial routines, you will not only age gracefully but will remain nourished and deeply moisturized.

So join us as we all at once embrace the beauty revolution- powered by nature and befriend fern extract (and other naturals) to take the reign of everlasting beauty!

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and recommendations tailored to your specific skin condition or health concerns. The content in this blog is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Any reliance you place on the information from this blog is at your own risk. We do not endorse or guarantee the efficacy of any specific skincare products or treatments mentioned in this blog. Individual results may vary. If you have a medical emergency or a severe skin condition, seek immediate medical attention.

References: 

  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/polypodium
  2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5189711/ 
  3. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/polypodium-leucotomos 
  4. https://www.yalemedicine.org/conditions/sun-damage#:~:text=When%20the%20sun%20prematurely%20ages,solar%20damage%2C%20or%20sun%20damage
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3970827/ 
  6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6047276/
  7. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/004014.htm#:~:text=Aging%20skin%20looks%20thinner%2C%20paler,the%20skin's%20strength%20and%20elasticity
  8. https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/17/7/1026 
  9. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/polypodium-leucotomos 
  10. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19373483/ 
  11. https://northandnortheastlincsdermatology.nhs.uk/help-and-advice/photochemotherapy-puva/#:~:text=Photochemotherapy%20(PUVA)%20is%20widely%20used,what%20is%20best%20for%20you