According to Melissa Nieves, LND, R.D., MPH, of Healthy Meals Supreme, vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid) is necessary for the synthesis of collagen. Specifically, certain enzymes depend on vitamin C to properly stabilize and cross-link collagen molecules2. The nutrient also supports collagen gene expression, which prompts collagen synthesis. And since vitamin C benefits collagen production both internally and topically2, you can enjoy the vitamin C in hibiscus by drinking or applying it. Hibiscus is high in an antioxidant called myricetin. This compound suppresses collagenase, an enzyme that targets and degrades collagen. (Collagenase activity naturally increases as we get older, causing the skin to lose its firmness and structure.) The myricetin in hibiscus, however, could potentially pump the brakes on collagen degradation—keeping your skin strong and firm. You’ll be happy to know that hibiscus may lend a hand. According to Green, the tart herb decreases elastase activity, which protects against skin wrinkles by sparing elastin. Lab studies associate this effect with—you guessed it—myricetin, suggesting hibiscus could support skin proteins in more ways than one. “Inflammation is one of the body’s responses to [free radical] damage,” explains Nieves. However, antioxidants work by neutralizing these free radicals, protecting cells and tissues like the skin. By consuming antioxidant-rich foods like hibiscus tea, says Nieves, you can add more “soldiers” to the “army” to fight free radical activity6—and the inflammation it can cause. When applied topically, AHAs slough away dead skin cells and encourage skin cell renewal9. Through this gentle mode of exfoliation, AHAs can help reduce hyperpigmentation, increase skin clarity, and “encourage fresher and smoother-looking skin,” shares Green. There’s some evidence hibiscus could support wound healing. In lab studies10, researchers have examined the topical effect of hibiscus extract on wounds in skin samples called skin explants. The extract increased the production of fibronectin, a protein that helps the edges of a wound close. It also stimulated the expression of genes involved in various healing processes, including skin hydration and regeneration. Plus, you might find it easier to hydrate by drinking something like hibiscus tea. “[It] has a sweetly tart, fruity flavor, which can be preferable to plain water for some people,” notes Nieves.
