This Low-Key Ingredient Might Be Better Than Vitamin C—Here's What Derms Say

Although I love the classic everyday skincare staples like retinol and vitamin C, I'm always interested in learning more about underdog ingredients that I might be sleeping on. Sure, the above are well-researched and tend to get most of the praise and attention from experts across the board, but once in a while, there are a few lesser-known ingredients that are worth looking into and adding to your routine. 

One such ingredient that's been getting some buzz lately is edelweiss extract. Edelweiss is a potent antioxidant that some are saying can rival the skincare benefits offered by vitamin C. I didn't know much about this powerhouse ingredient, so I decided to ask a dermatologist to weigh in on this debate. For all his insight on edelweiss extract, and if it can *truly* compete with vitamin C, keep on reading.

Honestly, I'd heard of edelweiss extract before, but I didn't know much about what kind of benefits it can offer your skin. To get a bit more insight, I turned to board-certified dermatologist Brendan Camp, MD, FAAD. He shared a few more details on this somewhat under-the-radar ingredient. 

"Extracts of the Leontopodium alpinum (edelweiss) flower are trending in skincare because of their anti-aging benefits," said Camp. "As an antioxidant, edelweiss helps neutralize free oxygen radicals. Free radicals are unstable oxygen molecules that can damage cellular structures and contribute to premature aging. Edelweiss is also thought to have calming properties that soothe and promote healing in irritated skin." 

In addition to this, a study on edelweiss extract even showed promise in the barrier repair and inflammation-healing departments.

But now for the million-dollar question: Is this potent antioxidant better than vitamin C? I asked Camp to weigh in. "Like edelweiss, vitamin C also has antioxidant properties," he said. "Vitamin C, however, is also known for its ability to brighten skin. Vitamin C can help address sun spots, hyperpigmentation from acne, and uneven skin tone." 

So while both antioxidants offer similar benefits, it depends on what your skincare goals are and your skin type. Vitamin C might be better for those struggling with acne and hyperpigmentation, but edelweiss can offer some serious benefits in the anti-aging department. It's also suitable for sensitive skin that doesn't tolerate vitamin C. "Edelweiss is generally well-tolerated and can likely be used by those with sensitive skin," Camp explained. "However, whenever [you] use a new skincare product, it is a good idea to do a test spot, especially if you have a history of sensitive or eczema-prone skin."

For a few edelweiss-packed skincare products, take a peek below.