Part of having healthy skin is keeping your skin both hydrated and free of toxins. Growing houseplants can achieve both of these. Houseplants can help alleviate dry skin by increasing the relative humidity in an indoor space. The more hydrated your skin is, the healthier its barrier function is likely to be: ergo, less wrinkles and redness, and a juicier, plumper complexion overall. Plants create moisture in the air through a process called transpiration, releasing water vapor via their leaves in a sort of green exhale—and those that require more water to grow (including peace lilies, English ivy, spider plants, and areca palms) tend to be the heaviest breathers.
The biggest beauty boost that plants can give us may start in our brains. Being in the presence of greenery lowers blood pressure, aids concentration, and enhances immunity. Certain bacteria in soil have even proven to have an anti-depressant-like effect, boosting serotonin levels when inhaled.
Houseplants also add moisture to the air, helping to keep our skin hydrated which is very important for healthy skin. By the process of transpiration, plants release moisture into the air and help to increase the relative humidity of our indoor air. This is especially important in the winter when air tends to be very dry.
Houseplants Help Each Other, Too
Transpiration is the process plants use to absorb moisture from the soil and release it from their leaves. It doesn’t just benefit us. Grouping plants in your home or office means they help provide more humidity for each other. This makes the environment a little closer to the lush tropical rain forests many of them come from. It helps them stay happier and healthier.
What plants are best houseplants for your skin?
- Snake plant – Snake plants are wonderful houseplants all around. They tolerate low light very well, release oxygen at night (and thus make good bedroom plants), and also remove a variety of chemicals from the air including benzene, formaldehyde and toluene.
- Peace lily – Peace lilies have a high transpiration rate and, therefore, help to increase the relative humidity of your room and benefiting your skin. It’s also highly rated as an air purifier because it removes a variety of toxins from indoor air including benzene, formaldehyde, toluene and xylene.
- Boston fern – Boston ferns have a high transpiration rate and are wonderful for removing formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
Indoor environments without fresh airflow allow pollutants to build up and remain stagnant in greater amounts than we should be breathing in. Even a handful of small plants can make a difference in your skin and overall wellbeing.
