Here’s Why the Super Fruit Ingredient Rambutan Is the Hottest New Alternative to Retinol

Here at Sweety High, we always love hearing about buzzy new skincare ingredients.

Of course, when it's time to try them ourselves, we discovered that some are overhyped, while others are practically life-changing. One ingredient that's recently flown onto our radars is a fruit called Rambutan, related to lychee, which works as an alternative to vitamin A-packed retinol, without any of the skin irritation sometimes associated with it.

Curious? We got to chat with Kendra Kolb Butler, founder of Alpyn Beauty, to find out all about Rambutan, and what this ingredient is all about.

Sweety High: What exactly is Rambutan? Where does it come from, and why is it a relative newcomer to the skincare game?

Kendra Kolb Butler: Rambutan is a fruit native to Southeast Asia (we sustainably harvest ours from Vietnam) that has compelling research hailing it as a cutting-edge, effective ingredient to support natural production of collagen, increase skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. We now have a second plant-based alternative to Retinol in addition to Bakuchiol.

(via Shutterstock)

 

SH: What are the skin benefits of this unique ingredient?

KKB: Rambutan helps to enhance the radiance of the skin and reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles.

 

SH: How does Rambutan stack up to other ingredients, such as retinol and Bakuchiol? In what ways might it be better or worse?

KKB: It has similar effects to both of the aforementioned ingredients. We don't look at it as "better or worse" but more as a second alternative to Retinol, in addition to Bakuchiol (which we also use and love).

 

SH: Are there any other pros and cons of Rambutan?

KKB: Another pro is that it has also been shown to provide incredible hydration.

 

SH: Are there any skin types that can benefit in particular from Rambutan? Are there any skin types it might be less of a match for?

KKB: We are still learning more about this spectacular and effective ingredient but it is believed to be beneficial for all skin types, including those who are sensitive.

 

SH: Tell us about your Wild Nettle & Niacinamide Firming Serum. Why did you include Rambutan, and why was that the best choice to make?

KKB: The recent studies were mind-blowing and we were very excited to be able to offer our community yet another alternative to Retinol in addition to Bakuchiol. With its hydrating and wrinkle-fighting abilities, it seemed natural to pair Rambutan with our wild stinging nettle (hand-harvested in Jackson Hole) as well as B3-rich niacinamide.

(via Alpyn Beauty)

 

SH: Is there anything else we should know about the ingredient?

KKB: I hope the ingredient is utilized by other brands in the clean and natural skincare space moving forward—the research is extremely promising.

 

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