Loving the outdoors and being active doesn’t have to take a toll on your skin. The winter wind, the effects of sun exposure, pollution, the lack of moisture in the air is no match for nutrient-packed Edelweiss, our superstar ingredient hand-harvested from the Swiss Alps twice a year.

Edelweiss flowers (Gnaphalium Leontopodium) are a rare, strictly protected mountain herbaceous plant. Collection in the wild is prohibited in most countries to avoid endangerment. Edelweiss is of Asian origin that settled in the mountains of Europe and arctic regions of the world during glacial periods of the planet. It is found predominantly in the highest mountain areas of Europe and Asia. 

Known for its high-elevation survival, this rare, short-lived mountain flower is closest to the sunflower family and symbolizes alpinism, rugged beauty, and purity of the Alps. It is often called 'Noble White', 'Snow Flower' and ‘The Queen of the Mountain’. 

But the power of this beauty goes deeper than just pretty blooms.

Edelweiss flowers thrive in rocky limestone habitats above 5,900 feet in elevation. As for Telluride, if you are lucky, there have been rare sightings of this remarkable plant above 13,000 feet!

Living at such high altitudes means these plants receive some major sun, wind, cold, and general severe weather exposure all of which has contributed to their ability to repair and fight free radicals. 

Adapting to high elevations includes protecting itself from ultraviolet exposure at the highest peaks of Europe by producing significant antioxidants that thwart oxidation caused by UV rays.

A true extremophile botanical, Edelweiss has the ability to fortify, renew and nurture the skin. It has been shown in studies to target skin RNA helping to improve their response to environmental stressors.

You won’t find Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum) in all mountain regions, and you won’t see it as a common skincare ingredient but you can find sustainably harvested and protected Edelweiss flowers in our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence.

So, what can Edelweiss do for your skin?

Rejuvenating

By supporting skin regeneration processes, Edelweiss helps contribute to a healthy and rejuvenated complexion. Rich in antioxidants leontopodic acid and isochlorogenic acid, Edelweiss can help fortify skin against environmental stressors, like UV radiation, pollution, and free radicals. Twice the free radical scavenging properties of vitamin C, Edelweiss helps shield skin from oxidative stress and slow premature aging. 

Calming

Edelweiss contains phenylpropanoids, a compound that posses anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. These phytoactives can help  calm angry or reddened skin. This can be particularly beneficial for those with sensitive or reactive skin.

Hydrating

Edelweiss helps hydrate the skin and prevent moisture loss by restoring hydration and supporting healthy skin barrier function to those suffering from dry or dehydrated skin.

Firming 

Edelweiss can help to support collagen production, which is essential for maintaining skin elasticity and firmness. As we age, our collagen production declines, which can lead to the development of wrinkles and fine lines. Edelweiss contains phytonutrients that may help to improve skin elasticity, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and promote more youthful-looking skin.

Smoothing 

Edelweiss can help to improve the overall texture and appearance of the skin by helping promote cell renewal and regeneration. Natural phytochemicals such as chlorogenic acid, luteolin, bisabolane derivatives, and beta Sitosterol, subsequently assist in improving the appearance of wrinkles and aged and/or irritated skin.This can help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and uneven skin tone, and promote a more radiant complexion.

Brightening

Certain compounds found in Edelweiss extract are associated with skin brightening effects which help to reduce hyperpigmentation, fade dark spots, and reveal a more even and radiant skin tone. In addition, Edelweiss can help fortify your skin against sun-induced aging.

These botanical powerhouse components help provide antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory defenses for the skin. 

Edelweiss flower extract is truly an alpine treasure, bringing a myriad of health benefits to your skin. From its concentration of free radical scavenging antioxidants to its hydrating and soothing properties, this alpine wonder can transform your skin's look, feel, and health.

Edelweiss survives and thrives

Look closer and you’ll see that the beautiful Edelweiss grows dense hair over its leaves and flower, like a little fuzzy snow hood, to help protect itself against the harsh environment where it thrives so beautifully. So clever!

Adapting to survive, extremophile plants like Edelweiss, produce secondary metabolites that provide cytoprotective properties that also feed your skin with vitamins necessary for vibrant aging. These phytonutrients withstand brutal winter climates then repel pests, fungi, and intense UV radiation in the summer growing season.

Aspen Dew’s custom formulation delivers the benefits of these plants’ powerful response to stress right to your cells to help protect them from the stress from your own environment.

Uniquely protected and sustainably sourced

Sustainable sourcing is an important topic in today’s botanical skincare and an important part of the Telluride GLOWPromise.

Edelweiss is cultivated in high alpine areas in the French speaking part of Switzerland, and the flower is cut only partially while the stems and roots of the plant are left untouched until a second cut later in the year. After the snowy winter the cycle is repeated to ensure the vitality of the plant remains intact, as is the ground it grows from.

Together with perfect ratios of other skin perfecting actives, Aspen Dew with Edelweiss visibly firms and assists in brightening, plus incredible moisture balance while keeping skin-damaging free radicals at bay.

See what this highly adaptive flower can do to illuminate your skin with our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence.

Inspired by the shimmering aspens surrounding Telluride, Colorado, this is a luxurious hybrid between a micro-serum and a skin conditioner, delivering quadruple humectants for a dewy glow. Niacinamide (B3), Phytoceramides, Aloe Vera and micro-molecular Hyaluronic acid meld with Edelweiss and other regenerating alpine plant actives in a weightless veil for deep, progressive hydration and defense against premature signs of aging.It stands alone beautifully, or pair with The Alpine or Purist serums for amplified skin recovery.

Sources:

Cho, Won Kyong, et al. "Anti-Aging Effects of Leontopodium alpinum (Edelweiss) Callus Culture Extract through Transcriptome Profiling." Genes, vol. 11, no. 2, 2020, p. 230, doi:10.3390/genes11020230.

While it may be a mouthful to pronounce, Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is an enzyme that helps break down potentially harmful oxygen molecules in cells.

It is a key enzyme that helps support vital chemical reactions in the body. Yes, it can be manufactured in a lab, but Telluride Glow extracts this critical enzyme from plants.

Superoxide dismutase is used in Telluride Glow's Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence as a rejuvenating ingredient and powerful antioxidant because of its ability to fight free radical damage. SOD helps preventing wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, soften the appearance of scar tissue, combat damage from UV rays, and reduce other signs of aging.

Even better, it helps reverse signs of aging. It does this by promoting a healthy complexion, encouraging resilient, luminous skin. It brightens hyperpigmentation, age spots, and acne marks, for an even-toned complexion.

How does Superoxide Dismutase work in our Aspen Dew Essence? 

While it's a key ingredient on its own, our whole plant botanical ingredients work synergistically with superoxide dismutase to revitalize the skin.

Arnica and bearberry assist in reducing inflammation and improving microcirculation to combat puffiness and brown spots. You’ll notice brighter, bouncier, more radiant skin over time.

Just one more reason why Aspen Dew is an essential daily product to promote healthier skin.

Adaptogens are the new buzzword in skincare but these ingredients that have been used for hundreds, maybe thousands, of years in herbal medicine to restore the body to its natural state.

In skincare, adaptogens work like antioxidants in that their main purpose is to protect the body from external stressors and bring it back to its normal state. They can decrease inflammation, cleanse the skin by killing bacteria, viruses, and fungi, decrease oil production, protect, and hydrate while providing potent antioxidants.

Traditionally, adaptogenic herbs have grown in some of the most inhospitable areas of the planet which likely gives them their stress and fatigue-fighting properties. Some adaptogens are considered extremophiles of the plant kindgom.

Bioavailability is key

Adaptogen plants need to be quality-controlled to have bioavailability and proven ability to reach the targeted skin layer. The best way to do this is to leave them in their natural state, undisturbed by heat and processing as we do with our whole-plant ingredients at Telluride Glow. Care and thoughtfulness must be applied at every step, from harvest to formulation, if the skin is to reap the full benefits. 

Adaptogen plants often grow in stressed environments, bestowing potent nutrients as a survival mechanism. For us, that means delivering better skin nutrition. 

TellurideGlow transports raw plant energy from alpine survivalist plants right to your skin. We source worldwide to provide the highest ratios and greatest variety of cytoprotective high-altitude botanicals on the market. 

Age-old adaptogenic botanicals

Each adaptogenic ingredient in our formulas uniquely supports the skin, bringing overall balance and resilience to the complexion. 

Tremella mushroom (aka snow mushroom)

The polysaccharides (naturally occurring long chains of carbohydrate molecules) found in tremella have immunological properties. They help adjust the immune system to assist the body in fighting off skin stressors. You can find snow mushroom in our Snow Rose Recovery Mask.

Aloe vera

Aloe is known to contain twelve substances that play a role in soothing inflammation. The disinfecting and antimicrobial properties also play a role in fighting harmful bacteria. This wonder plant is perfectly suited to assist the body with defense mechanisms. And it's just one of the many reasons we choose aloe as our first ingredient (as opposed to water) in our best-selling Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence. 

Marchmallow root

Stress has been shown to impair the skin barrier, leaving it prone to water loss and dehydration. Marshmallow root helps to fortify the skin barrier and increase skin hydration. The healing, moisturizing, and soothing qualities of marshmallow root make it highly effective for revitalizing stressed skin.

Goji berry

Lycium barbarum (Goji) contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory carotenoids, and flavonoids. Goji berries can help stimulate collagen, improving your skin's elasticity to keep it looking radiant. Goji reduces irritation and minimizes sun damage that leads to wrinkles, age spots, and sagging skin. 

Moringa

Moringa is an Ayurvedic favorite that is ultra-hydrating and boasts a high antioxidant content that helps protect against pollution. Discover the hydrating powers of moringa for yourself in our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum. 

Lavender and chamomile essential oil 

These are aromatic nervines that support the nervous system. They are used to help relieve muscle tension, circular thoughts, wakeful nights, and the occasional worry...or perhaps ongoing worry that many are experiencing during the coronavirus.

Sea buckthorn

A super fruit that contains all of the omegas — not just 3, 6, and 9, but also the ultra-rare 7 — as well as more than 60 antioxidants and at least 20 minerals.

Known as “Holy Fruit” in the Himalayan Mountains where it is grown, it is often used to improve skin health, as it has been linked to healing psoriasis and to slowing aging. Sea Buckthorn is recognized for its outstanding cellular regeneration properties for skin, you can find it in our Purist Delicate Skin Serum.

Do you know what damages skincare nutrients? 

Heat, light, and air.

To keep your products at top efficacy, look for dark containers to keep out light, and avoid products in clear glass, especially those with fragile antioxidants.

Seek out treatment pumps over droppers to keep out air, and choose companies that use cold processing and cold formulating.

Lavender, known by it's Latin name as Lavandula, has captivated our senses for millennia, not just with its delightful aroma but also with its extensive medicinal and therapeutic properties.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties and rich phytochemical content, stands out for its enhanced phytochemical richness which play a pivotal role in enhancing skin health and emotional well-being.

History and traditional uses of lavendar

The story of lavender is woven deeply into the fabric of history, dating back to ancient civilizations.

In Ancient Egypt, lavender played a crucial role in the mummification process and perfumery.

It is famously associated with Cleopatra's seduction of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Its protective qualities were revered, believed to ward off evil spirits and diseases such as the plague and cholera in medieval Europe.

In Roman times, lavedar was a symbol of cleanliness and purity. Fun fact,  its name is derived from the Latin lavare, meaning "to wash," indicative of its use in Roman bathing rituals.

Lavender's healing properties were also recognized in early medicine by Greek physician Dioscorides and further celebrated by herbalist John Parkinson and in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its cooling and soothing effects.

The 20th century saw the pioneering work of French chemist Rene-Maurice Gattefosse, who, after experiencing lavender's healing effects first hand. After sustaining a burn on his hand he famously plunged it into a vat of lavender oil and was reportedly astonished at the speed with which his hand healed.

Gattefosse's study of lavendar contributed significantly to the foundation of modern aromatherapy, highlighting its antimicrobial and skin regeneration benefits.

The unique benefits of high-altitude lavender

Enhanced relaxation and improved sleep

The sedative properties of high-altitude lavender essential oil have been well-documented, showing significant improvement in sleep quality and stress reduction. Its intense aroma, rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, contributes to its calming effects on the nervous system.

Anti-inflammatory effects

Research highlights lavender oil's ability to mitigate inflammatory responses and soothe skin conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent choice for reducing redness and discomfort on reactive skin.

Antimicrobial activity

Lavender oil's broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties are effective against skin pathogens, supporting its traditional use in cleansing wounds and preventing infections.

Promotes skin recovery and collagen synthesis

Studies have shown that lavender essential oil may help speed skin recovery by enhancing fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis. This property is crucial for improving skin health and integrity.

Guards against premature aging

The polyphenols in high-altitude lavender offer significant antioxidant protection, safeguarding the skin from environmental stressors, UV damage, and preventing signs of premature aging.

Lavender in skincare & wellness

The historical and scientific narratives of lavender converge to underscore its timeless appeal and enduring value in skincare and wellness.

High-altitude lavender, with its unique adaptogenic properties, represents the pinnacle of this botanical's potential, offering a holistic approach to nurturing the skin and calming the mind.

Incorporating high-altitude lavender into your daily routine can help to enhance sleep quality, reduce stress, promote skin health and protect against premature aging.

Lavender oil is a true testament to the power of nature in supporting our overall well-being.

Lavender's journey from ancient rituals and royal endorsements to modern-day aromatherapy and skincare formulations encapsulates its multifaceted role as a botanical treasure.

As we continue to explore and appreciate lavender's many benefits, we honor a tradition that blends ancient wisdom with contemporary science, ensuring that lavender remains a cherished ingredient in our pursuit of natural health and beauty.

Article References

1. Lytle, J., et al. (2014). "Study on the Effect of Inhalation of Lavender Essential Oil on Patients with Insomnia." Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
2. Donelli, D., et al. (2019). "Effects of Lavender on Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis." Phytomedicine.
3. Sánchez-Vidaña, D. I., et al. (2017). "The Effectiveness of Lavender Essential Oil on Inflammatory Responses and Skin Conditions." International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
4. Zu, Y., et al. (2010). "Antimicrobial Activity of Lavender Oil Against Common Skin Pathogens." Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
5. Mori, H. M., et al. (2016). "Accelerated Wound Healing by Lavender Essential Oil in Mice." BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies.
6. Pandey, K. B., & Rizvi, S. I. (2009). "Plant Polyphenols as Antioxidants in Human Health and Disease." Free Radical Biology and Medicine.

Sea buckthorn is a super-nutrient oil revered in skincare for its unparalleled ability to enhance skin radiance, boost hydration, and combat premature aging. 

This "liquid gold" is not an oceanic extract but a precious yield from the Sea buckthorn shrub, thriving in the lofty realms of the Himalayas. 

Meticulously extracted via mechanical cold pressing from Sea buckthorn berries ensures a potent blend of omegas essential for skin health.

A jewel in traditional medicine

Rooted in centuries-old wisdom, Sea buckthorn has been a cornerstone in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) since the Tang Dynasty (618-907 C.E.), cherished for its holistic health benefits. 

Its Latin name, Hippophae rhamnoides, meaning 'shiny horse,' hints at its historical use for enhancing the vitality and coat health of horses, a testament to its nourishing properties.

Omega-rich rejuvenation

The secret behind Sea buckthorn oil's remarkable skin benefits lies in its comprehensive fatty acid profile, encompassing omega-3, 6, 7, and 9, making it a unique botanical source of all four essential omegas. 

These lipids are pivotal in moderating the skin's inflammatory response, which is crucial since chronic inflammation is a precursor to premature aging and DNA damage. 

The anti-inflammatory properties of Sea buckthorn oil not only soothe the skin but also protect it against the ravages of time, promoting a youthful, vibrant complexion.

Beyond inflammation control, these fatty acids facilitate deep skin penetration, promoting regeneration, collagen production, and renewal. This action is critical for epidermal recovery and helps minimize the look of scars. 

Omega-9, for instance, enhances the skin's absorption of other beneficial compounds, whereas omega-6, converted into prostaglandins, plays a vital role in skin recovery and nutrient transport.

A standout feature of Sea buckthorn oil is its omega-7 content, a rarity in the plant kingdom, known for boosting keratinization, telomerase activity, and collagen formation. 

These processes are essential for slowing aging and reducing hyperpigmentation.

Strengthening the skin barrier

The integrity of the skin barrier is fundamental to overall skin health, serving as a defense against microbial invasion and moisture loss. It is also easily compromised as we age, due to a reduction in our skin’s natural oil production.

Sea buckthorn oil's rich phytoceramide and lipid content fortifies this barrier, effectively reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and shielding the skin from inflammation-induced aging and structural damage. 

Its barrier-strengthening properties also offer support for inflammatory skin conditions, such as dermatitis and rosacea, comforting sensitive reactive-prone skin.

Antioxidant power for smoother firmer skin

Environmental stressors like UV radiation, pollution, and psychological stress contribute to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, accelerating skin aging through oxidative stress. 

Sea buckthorn oil is a powerhouse of antioxidants, including polyphenols and vitamins A, E, and C—boasting a vitamin C content 15 times higher than that of oranges!

These antioxidants mitigate ROS damage, support collagen synthesis, and provide regenerative benefits, crucial for preventing premature aging and facilitating skin recovery.

Moreover, the oil's phytonutrients can help curb the activity of sun-induced MMP enzymes responsible for collagen degradation, offering further protection against aging and inflammation.

Enhanced radiance

Sea buckthorn oil may help support skin detoxification and oxygenation, culminating in a more radiant and glowing complexion. 

This improvement boosts skin barrier health and resilience, something that is especially beneficial for those who spend time in extreme climatic conditions, like skiing in Telluride!

Sea buckthorn oil stands out as a multifaceted elixir in skin care, offering a spectrum of benefits from anti-inflammatory and barrier-strengthening actions to antioxidant protection and radiance enhancement. 

You can find Sea buckthorn in our best-selling Alpine Phytonutrient Serum and Purist Delicate Skin Serum.

If your skin is looking slack and feeling like it's missing its usual bounce, it may be time to help boost collagen production.

Praised for its restorative benefits, horsetail is a ‘living fossil’ that has graced our planet with its fern-like fronds for hundreds of millions of years.

A perennial native to the Northern Hemisphere and European countries, horsetail (Equisetum arvense) also goes by the names shave grass, scouring rush, and bottlebrush.

It was used extensively by ancient Greeks and Romans for its medicinal properties being first recorded in medical texts by the Greek physician Claudius Galenus during the 17th century.

Containing some of the highest levels of bioavailable silicon in the form of silica and silica acids in the plant world, horsetail helps encourage collagen synthesis boosting skin resiliency and turgor. (Not to be confused with silicone, which is a man-made chemical commonly used in industrial applications.)

This restorative botanical is found in our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence and helps promote collagen synthesis for a smooth, firm complexion.

Read on to learn how your skin can benefit from this delicate fern…

Restorative Benefits of Horsetail

Firm skin

Containing the highest levels of bioavailable silicon in the form of silica and silica acids in the plant world, this trace mineral is vital for taut skin, strong bones, and lustrous hair and nails. Silica is a vital building block of collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid. It is important for optimal collagen synthesis and activation of hydroxylating enzymes, which help to improve skin strength and elasticity.

Revitalizing

Packed with a flavonoid called isoquercitrin, horsetail extract is touted to speed up cellular regeneration. It may also help support the skin’s wound-healing processes and fight the effects of premature photo-aging.

Calming

Horsetail may help to interrupt the body’s inflammatory response. This action may decrease potential damage to skin structures, premature skin aging, and help to calm reddened skin.

Antioxidant-rich

Elevated free radicals from stress, environmental pollutants, UV rays, and radiation from smartphones and laptops may negatively impact skin health. These unstable molecules can lead to inflammation and lipid peroxidation, which may damage cellular DNA and vital skin proteins.

Loaded with natural flavonoids and other antioxidants, horsetail helps curb effects from free radicals and accelerated skin aging.

Nourishing

Horsetail is a natural source of phytonutrients and minerals like calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin C. This makes it a potent nutritive tonic when incorporated into a daily skincare regimen.

Moisturizing

By helping to improve skin texture and providing a rich source of phytonutrients, horsetail improves skin barrier health and moisture retention.

Horsetail has many skin benefits which is why we've included it in our Aspen Dew Illuminating Essence. Containing both silica and silica acids in a readily absorbable format, horsetail is an obvious choice for boosting collagen and improving skin health.

Sources:

Use of silicon for skin and hair care: an approach of chemical forms available and efficacy* Lidiane Advincula de Araújo,1 Flavia Addor,2 and Patrícia Maria Berardo Gonçalves Maia Campos1

Isolated isoquercitrin from Green ball apple peel inhibits photoaging in CCD-986Sk fibroblasts cells via modulation of the MMPs signaling. Eun-Ho Lee 1, Hye-Jin Park 1, Han-Hyuk Kim 2, Hee-Young Jung 3, In-Kyu Kang 4, Young-Je Cho 1

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is a herbaceous plant with a long history of medicinal use. A tenacious biennial indigenous to Europe, Asia and Africa, mullein is named after its soft wooly leaves (Mollis - means soft in Latin).

Praised for its restorative properties, folk medicine practitioners in India and Spain traditionally used mullein to treat aches, pains, migraines, digestive and respiratory illnesses. Brewing its bright yellow blooms into a soothing, sedative tea, mullein was used as an antiviral, analgesic, and nervine tonic. Mullein poltices were also used in indigenous medicine to help calm skin lesions and insect bites to help promote a swifter recovery. 

Rich in phytonutrients like flavonoids and Vitamin C, Mulleins’s powerful phytonutrients provide the skin and body with multiple health benefits. 

Read on to learn more about this nutrient-rich herb and why it's constituents make it a key player in skin recovery of all kinds.

Hesperidin

The bioflavonoid hesperidin acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. It may suppress melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase for a brighter, more radiant complexion. In addition, it acts as a potent free radical scavenger, protecting the skin from free radical damage and premature aging.

Quercetin

Quercetin is a flavonoid that offers protection from environmental agressors like pollution and pollen. It, therefore, acts as a skin soother due to its ability to combat inflammation and erythema. In addition, quercetin helps restores the skin barrier function, reducing trans epidermal water loss (TEWL) and increasing overall skin hydration.

Luteolin

Commonly found in many vegetables and fruits, like leafy greens and bell peppers, luteolin has many health-giving benefits. In fact, some studies have shown that luteolin may even have properties that help to prevent damage to skin structures and cellular DNA. 

Vitamin C 

A well known free radical scavenger, vitamin C helps combat oxidative stress, a key culprit in collagen and elastin degradation. It’s is also one of the main vitamins that is essential for collagen synthesis and therefore vital for firm, bouncy skin.  

Vitamin C may also help defend against sun-induced matrix metalloproteinases or MMPs, a class of enzymes responsible for triggering inflammation that can lead to accelerated aging.

By helping to modulate the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, vitamin C can help calm angry skin  Last but not least, some studies have shown that vitamin C also has photoprotective qualities, helping to brighten dull skin and lighten sun spots.

What do you think of this powerful herb? We believe it has the potential to elevate skincare to the next level. So much so, we've included it in our Snow Rose Recovery Mask!

Arnica Montana is a potent herb and popular botanical used in both skincare, herbal medicines, and homeopathic formulations.

Arnica thrives in alpine meadows and creates an impressive sea of golden blooms in late spring and early summer. In Telluride's Imogene basin you can find arnica growing in the wild. 

Boasting over 150 active compounds, arnica contains a myriad of phytonutrients including sesquiterpene lactones which offer antimicrobial, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory benefits.

In North American, indigenous peoples have used it for centuries as an analgesic, to treat bruising and muscle soreness.

The first recorded use by Europeans of this herbaceous plant dates back to the 16th-century when arnica was brewed into a medicinal tea in Germany.

You can find this skin nutrient powerhouse in our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum.

Read on to learn how this alpine flower can revitalize your complexion....

Skin Benefits of Arnica Montana

Recovery

Deeply restorative, arnica extract may help reduce collagen and elastin destruction caused by UVB exposure and protect the skin from damaging oxidative stress. 

Helenalin, a compound found in arnica, may inhibit inflammation in the skin.

Revitalizing

Arnica may stimulate matrix formation, especially fibronectin, in the skin. Fibronectin helps maintain and regulate healthy cellular activity in the skin, it is essential for healing and repair. 

Rejuvenating

Arnica shows potent elemental defense through free radical scavenging in the form of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. These powerful antioxidants may help shield the skin from harmful oxidative damage and help to prevent accelerated skin aging.  

Brightening

Arnica visibly brightens skin and reduces discoloration for a more luminous complexion. It may reduce the appearance of sun spots by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase which is responsible for melanin formation.

Calming

Wonderful for treating a puffy swollen complexion, arnica also helps reduces the appearance of redness, swelling, and irritation.

With its many skin-nurturing properties, arnica is the perfect way to amplify your skincare.

Summer means wildflower season in Telluride and forays above the tree line become resplendant with a riot of colorful alpine blooms.

Peeking from rock crannies and flourishing in lush alpine meadows, these high altitude flowers are a vital part of every TellurideGlow product.

Possessing unique medicinal properties, alpine wildflowers have been used since ancient times to nourish the skin and uplift the spirit. These flowers and their essences are one of our most powerful allies in the quest for a healthy, balanced and radiant complexion. 

Many contain high levels of free-radical fighting antioxidants to combat oxidative and environmental stress, posses unique cellular detoxification and regeneration abilities, and contain especially concentrated phytonutrients.

It's a bonus that they present incredible fragrance with no artificial additives!

Below you can learn more about the unique restorative and revitalizing properties of some of the alpine wildflowers chosen for our nourishing serums and essence.

Swiss Edelweiss

This protected alpine flower has been a coveted skin-healer for centuries thanks to its powers of renewal and abundant antioxidant protection, both of which work to improve the overall appearance of skin.

To read more about the incredible rejuvenating powers of this tiny bloom check out our article on Swiss Edelweiss.

Arnica Montana

Arnica Montana grows wild in Telluride's Imogene basin and is used for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also encourages increased circulation to help diminish puffiness and swelling.  

High Altitude Lavender

This high altitude essential oil has a higher linayl acetate content, giving it a fresh, clean fragrance and more relaxing components than other varieties. Calming lavender works to help purify the skin and improve clarity. The oil is traditionally believed to have sedative, carminative, anti-depressive and anti-inflammatory properties.

Roman Chamomile

Roman Chamomile has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory abilities that help to decongest clogged pores, and is also rich in flavonoids and antioxidants effective in helping to protect the skin against free radicals that cause aging.

Mullein

A natural anti-inflammatory, this cherrful yellow flowering herbaceous plant grows in the wild in many alpine meadows. We source and use our Mullein whole. Mullein can help with irritated skin and supports healing, thanks to its unique, regenerative properties. It also has antioxidant benefits to shield skin from oxidative stress.

Evening Primrose

Evening primrose oil touts high concentration of gamma Linolenic acid, essential for collagen production. Balances the skin between oily and dry.

We hope you enjoyed getting to know our unique alpine wildflowers a little bit better.

Ready to experience the transformative power of these resiliant blooms for yourself?

You can find a gorgeous bouquet of high altitude flowers in our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum which was inspired by the resilient wildflowers growing above the treeline in Telluride, Colorado.

One of Scandinavia's best kept beauty secrets is cloudberry seed oil, also called "arctic gold." 

This rare arctic berry only grows in the wild, typically in hard-to-reach terrain and in extreme conditions with temperatures reaching well below -40 degrees during winter months.

Locals who know where to find this highly prized fruit guard its location very closely.

In fact, there's a folk tale of a woman who broke her leg while picking cloudberries. In her injured state, she dragged herself home in an effort to keep the whereabouts of the berries a secret!

Cloudberries, or Rubus chamaemorus, contain many skin-loving phytonutrients such as ellagitannins, phtyoceramides, essential fatty acids, and intense concentrations of vitamin C.

The seeds yield an amber-colored oil that is deeply nourishing and helps prevent accelerated skin aging.

This Arctic gold is found in both our Alpine Phytonutrient Serum and The Purist Delicate Skin Serum and contains unique adaptogenic compounds highly beneficial to skin health.

Benefits of Cloudberries