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Meet malachite, the gemstone being billed as the botox of crystals

Relaxation, meet results.

By Delaney Loane

BEAUTYcrew Beauty Editor / November 16 2020

The topic of spirituality's place in skincare remains one of great debate; and yet many beauty brands continue to make a convincing case regarding efficacy, often pulling from the gemstone gang when formulating their best and brightest.

Allow us to introduce the latest crystal to catch the industry's eye: malachite. Dubbed the 'stone of transformation' within the crystal realm, it's earnt a new name in the skincare one, being hailed by crystal expert Colleen McCann as "the botox of the crystal world".

With a chemical composition that stimulates collagen production, enhances elasticity and fights wrinkles (hence the botox comparison), it's proving as valuable to complexions as it is to chakras.

Utilised by the likes of Goop and Darphin, malachite is certainly causing a stir in the skincare space. BEAUTYcrew spoke to April Roberts, Australian & New Zealand National Trainer for Sisley Paris to find out more.

WHY WERE MALACHITE CRYSTALS SELECTED FOR USE IN SKINCARE?

"Rich in copper, this mineral's anti-free radical properties help to protect cellular structures. For this reason, malachite has been specially selected by Sisley Research in order to strengthen the skin's natural defenses," Roberts explains. "Copper is involved in the synthesis of keratin, a protein that helps to retain water in the outermost layer of the epidermis," she shares.

WHAT SKIN BENEFITS DOES MALACHITE OFFER?

"Features are smoothed and dehydrated lines are plumped. As malachite also helps to protect against free radicals, the long-term results will [include] a stronger skin barrier and minimised signs of ageing," Roberts tells BEAUTYcrew.

WHICH SKIN TYPE WOULD BEST REAP THE BENEFITS OF MALACHITE?

"Being an ingredient that will help to better retain water in the skin and protect, every skin type and condition can benefit from malachite," she says. "It is safe for all skin types and conditions, including sensitivity."

HOW INSTANTLY CAN MALACHITE SKINCARE PRODUCTS PROVIDE RESULTS?

Malachite isn't messing around when it comes to efficiency. "Within first application of Sisley products containing malachite, customers will instantly feel and see a difference in the texture of the skin and the overall comfort," explains Roberts.

THE BEST MALACHITE PRODUCTS TO SHOP

1

Eye Contour Mask, $170 by Sisley Paris

If you count a fatigued-looking eye area among your standout skin concerns this eye mask can help. It harnesses the malachite extract within the formula to diminish the appearance (and feeling) of puffiness and fine lines. Expect relief within mere minutes.

2

G.Tox Malachite + AHA Pore Refining Toner, $98.55 by Goop Beauty

Gwyneth never met a crystal she didn't like, and so Goop was of course at the forefront of this emerging trend—their take comes in the form of a cell turnover-boosting, radiance-revealing toner. This (literal) gem doesn't ship to Australia as of yet, so be sure to pick one up next time you're in the States.

3

Citylife Intense Anti-Pollution Defence Concentrate by Oskia, $183.03 at NET-A-PORTER

Concocted to take full advantage of malachite's detoxifying capabilities, this mask is well aware that pollution is no friend to an ageing complexion. Able to protect against and absorb environmental impurities, the highly concentrated formula is deeply committed to keeping skin's tone and texture in tact.

4

Avocado Melt Retinol Eye Sleeping Mask by Glow Recipe, $64 at MECCA

Avocado and retinol may get top billing (and deservedly so—they're dynamite in the anti-ageing arena), but malachite serves as the unsung hero of this formula, teaming up with the aforementioned all stars to convincingly conceal the telltale signs of sleep deprivation.

5

Hydraskin Intensive Moisturising Serum by Darphin, $91 at MECCA

Designed to replace dehydration with dewiness, this deeply replenishing serum lives up to its 'intensive' claims, relieving tightness and boosting moisture levels while working to leave your face feeling fresh and firm.