White willow, an ancestral plant with extraordinary virtues
White willow (Salix alba) is a tree of temperate regions whose bark has been used since antiquity for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is from this bark that salicin was isolated, precursor of aspirin. But what interests modern cosmetics is another form of this active: fermented white willow, whose properties are multiplied by the fermentation process.
Fermentation: a process that releases all the potential of white willow
Fermentation is a biotechnological process using microorganisms (bacteria, yeasts) to transform the active molecules of an ingredient. In the case of white willow, this fermentation produces several remarkable effects:
- 27% increase in cell renewal: the fermented extract accelerates natural skin desquamation, more quickly eliminating dead cells that clog pores.
- Total inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus: this opportunistic bacterium is often involved in skin infections and inflammatory acne outbreaks. Fermented white willow totally blocks its proliferation.
- 25% reduction in Propionibacterium acnes populations: this bacterium, now renamed Cutibacterium acnes, is the main responsible for acne pimples. A 25% reduction in its population has a significant impact on the frequency and intensity of outbreaks.
- Anti-inflammatory action: salicyl derivatives from white willow exert anti-inflammatory action on papules and pustules, reducing redness and discomfort associated with acne.
How to integrate fermented white willow in your routine
As a corrective serum (localised care)
Fermented white willow is particularly effective in localised application on imperfection zones. 1 to 2 drops of concentrated serum on the zones to treat, applied on previously cleansed skin, allow optimal penetration of actives.
As a purifying lotion (night care)
Applied in the evening on a cotton pad, a lotion based on fermented white willow works overnight on imperfection-prone zones (nostrils, forehead, jaw). The next morning, the skin appears clearer and pores visibly reduced.
As a daily cleanser
Integrated into a gentle cleansing gel, fermented white willow participates in deep pore cleansing while preserving the natural skin microbiome. This is the gentlest approach for progressive and lasting results.
Fermented white willow vs salicylic acid: what difference?
Salicylic acid is a very common anti-acne active derived from salicyl derivatives of white willow. But unlike pure salicylic acid, fermented white willow presents several advantages:
- It is better tolerated by sensitive skin
- It does not dry out the skin
- It benefits from the complementary contribution of probiotics from fermentation
- It is natural and certifiable
Fermented white willow represents the best of both worlds: the power of a clinically proven active and the gentleness of a natural probiotic formula. It is one of the flagship actives of the Zactigis range, present in several of our formulas to offer complete, effective and skin-respectful anti-blemish action.
