White Willow, an ancient 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, a precursor to aspirin, was isolated. But what modern cosmetics are interested in is another form of this active ingredient: fermented white willow, whose properties are multiplied by the fermentation process.
Fermentation: a process that unlocks the full potential of white willow
Fermentation is a biotechnological process that uses 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 the natural desquamation of the skin, 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 flare-ups. Fermented white willow completely blocks its proliferation.
- 25% reduction in Propionibacterium acnes populations: This bacterium, now renamed Cutibacterium acnes, is the main cause of acne pimples. A 25% reduction in its population has a significant impact on the frequency and intensity of flare-ups.
- Anti-inflammatory action: Salicylated derivatives of white willow exert an anti-inflammatory action on papules and pustules, reducing the redness and discomfort associated with acne.
How to integrate fermented white willow into your routine
As a corrective serum (localized treatment)
Fermented white willow is particularly effective when applied locally to areas of imperfection. 1 to 2 drops of concentrated serum on the areas to be treated, applied to previously cleansed skin, allow for optimal penetration of the active ingredients.
As a purifying lotion (night treatment)
Applied at night with a cotton pad, a lotion containing fermented white willow acts overnight on areas prone to imperfections (sides of the nose, forehead, jawline). The next morning, the skin appears clearer and pores are visibly reduced.
As a daily cleanser
Integrated into a gentle gel cleanser, fermented white willow helps to deeply cleanse pores while preserving the natural skin microbiome. This is the gentlest approach for progressive and lasting results.
Fermented white willow vs. salicylic acid: what's the difference?
Salicylic acid is a very common anti-acne active ingredient, derived from the salicylated derivatives of white willow. But unlike pure salicylic acid, fermented white willow has 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 of natural and certifiable origin
Fermented white willow represents the best of both worlds: the power of a clinically proven active ingredient and the gentleness of a natural probiotic formula. It is one of the flagship active ingredients of the Zactigis range, present in several of our formulas to offer a complete, effective, and skin-friendly anti-imperfection action.
