Ma Chi Xian | The super food for skin

What is Ma Chi Xian?

Ma Chi Xian is a fleshy green succulent with red stems and bright yellow flowers, commonly known as Purslane and with the formal botanical name of Portulaca Oleracea. Its crunchy leaves are nutritionally rich, with a subtle lemon and pepper tang that has made them an integral part of Middle Easter cuisine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, however, Purslane Extract has long been used to help clear the heat and eliminate the toxins associated with reactive, sensitive and inflamed skin.

Though Ma Chi Xian has historically been believed to a nuisance garden weed, modern skincare studies have confirmed its widespread nutritional and skin benefits - noting, in particular, it’s strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and nutritive properties, as well as its ability to trigger the youth-enhancing enzyme Telomerase.In 2010, Dr Artemis Simopoulos, president of the Centre for Genetics, Nutrition and Health in Washington, defined it as ‘a miracle plant’ with the highest level of Omega-3 fatty acids than any other green plant - a finding supported in 2012 by Malaysia’s Universiti Putra, who also noted this active’s particularly high antioxidant properties and high levels of Vitamins E, C and beta-carotene.

The skincare benefits of Ma Chi Xian

Ma Chi Xian is a non-irritating active brimming with reparative nutrients that are especially beneficial for soothing acne, atopic dermatitis, eczema and sensitive skin, helping those who often experience inflamed skin or allergic skin reactions.

1. An advanced antioxidant | Thanks to its high levels of vitamins A (beta-carotene), B1, B2, C, and E (alpha-tocopherol), as well as glutathione, Ma Chi Xian helps maintain a youthful skin glow and boost skin’s natural protective barrier. In doing so, it is protected from free radical damage and premature skin ageing induced by exposure to pollution and UV rays.
2. A super skin-soother | As mentioned earlier, Ma Chi Xian has the richest vegetable source of Omega-3 fatty acids – crucial in helping strengthen the barrier function as part of skin’s natural lipids. What’s more, it is a great source of skin-loving minerals potassium, magnesium, calcium and phosphorus. Together, these qualities are vital in helping alleviate dry, itchy or inflamed skin, as well as those with acne.
3. An anti-allergy boost | Rich in catecholamines such as L-methyl-adrenalin and dopamine, Ma Chi Xian is renowned for its anti-allergy properties. It has been reported to make a remarkable difference to those experiencing facial redness or broken and wide skin capillaries.

Dermatology M products containing Ma Chi Xian

Oil Control Moisturiser
Ideal for combination or oily skin prone to breakouts and acne, this targeted treatment helps soothe and clear breakouts while calming redness and balancing the complexion.

Cleanse & Clear Mask
Our fast-acting face mask is perfect for skin prone to breakouts, acne, pustular rosacea and redness. It gets to work in just 15 minutes, soothing and refreshing skin as it clears pores and leaves the complexion balanced, supple and bright.