Radiant Orchid, the trend color of 2014 as decreed by color specialist Pantone, has shown up all across the beauty spectrum. The flower is appearing literally — as the key ingredient in Clarins Blue Orchid Face Treatment Oil, for instance. Or it's an inspiration — for example, as the basis of trendy nail wraps from Jamberry Nails Radiant Orchid Collection.
In skin care, orchid extract is touted as an effective moisturizer; orchid leaves contain plant pigments called anthocyanins — also present in blueberries and acai — known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
"The idea is a good one," said Ariel Ostad, clinical assistant professor in the department of dermatology at New York University Medical Center. According to Ostad, the innate properties of orchids can potentially help stimulate collagen production and fight free radicals.
"It's certainly a nice step forward," he said. "But the question is, have adequate studies been done to prove that the amount of extract in a particular product is enough to make a difference?"