In the picturesque region of Yamagata, Japan, a vibrant red flower has captured the attention of scientists and beauty enthusiasts alike. The safflower, known as "benihana" in Japanese, has been a treasured part of the nation's cultural history, with its pigment used to dye silk and create make-up during the Edo period. Now, this crimson blossom is making waves in the world of skincare, thanks to groundbreaking research conducted by Shiseido, one of Japan's oldest cosmetics companies, in collaboration with the Institute for Advanced Biosciences at Keio University.
Nestled in the heart of Yamagata, the Institute for Advanced Biosciences is home to state-of-the-art machines that can analyze substances down to their biological components. It is here that Shiseido has tasked its scientists with unraveling the secrets of the safflower and its potential to rejuvenate skin for the long term. Ayako Fukazawa, a scientist working in research and development at Shiseido, explains that safflower flowers have long been valued in local naturopathy for their pain-relieving and circulation-enhancing effects, particularly for menstrual cramps.
Building upon this traditional knowledge, researchers have discovered that safflower extracts contain components that inhibit oxidation, a major factor in skin aging, and promote blood circulation. Through their innovative research, the scientists at Keio University have identified a specific compound in the flowers responsible for these benefits, which they have extracted, named, and patented as "SafflowerRED." This powerful ingredient now serves as the key component in Shiseido's reformulated "Vital Perfection" line.
Tetsuro Yonezawa, another scientist working in research and development at the university, emphasizes the crucial role blood circulation plays in maintaining skin health. "SafflowerRED has the ability to promote the firmness, elasticity, and evenness of the skin through its circulation-promoting effect," he explains. In 2019, Shiseido presented award-winning research results that established an integral link between the skin's microvascular system and its appearance, demonstrating that better blood supply leads to firmer and more elastic skin.
The scientists have also developed a blood vessel quality index called PC1, which refers to the quality of the capillary network closest to the skin's surface. Using a high-tech "Skin Visualisers" mirror equipped with special cameras, they can measure the PC1 value, a feat previously only possible by examining a piece of skin under a microscope. Interestingly, the researchers found that the PC1 value was consistently highest in young or younger-looking skin and lower in areas with more wrinkles, pigmentation spots, and loss of elasticity.
While the Skin Visualiser mirror is still undergoing fine-tuning before its anticipated rollout in Europe, the reformulated Vital Perfection line featuring SafflowerRED is already available. The scientists recommend using the day cream every morning, accompanied by a gentle massage to enhance its absorption and effectiveness.
As the world continues to seek innovative solutions for youthful, radiant skin, the safflower and its crimson elixir, SafflowerRED, stand poised to revolutionize the skincare industry. With its roots in Japanese cultural history and the backing of cutting-edge scientific research, this vibrant blossom holds the key to unlocking the secrets of ageless beauty.
