snow lotus. flower power.

saussurea involucrata.

A rare alpine flower. A survivor of extremes. A quiet kind of strength.

What Is Snow Lotus?

Grown at 10,000+ feet in the mountains of Asia, Snow Lotus thrives where most things can’t: low oxygen, high UV, bitter cold.

  • Used for centuries in traditional medicine

  • Symbol of resilience, balance, renewal

  • Survives extremes without losing its softness

This isn’t lab-engineered performance. It’s nature, adapted.

We don’t use Snow Lotus because it’s trendy. We use it because its survival story mirrors our skincare philosophy: stay calm, stay steady, stay kind.

low oxygen

high UV

bitter cold

why it matters for skin.

let’s keep it real: snow Lotus isn’t a retinol-style “active.”

however, early research suggests its antioxidants and

anti-inflammatory properties may help support balance

especially when combined with proven hydrators such

as urea, glycerin, and tremella.

snow lotus = antioxidant | calm | hydration support

What it may do:

  • Defend against oxidative stress

  • Reduce visible signs of inflammation.

  • Bring balance to off-kilter skin

  • Support hydration when layered with barrier-first ingredients.

SNOW LOTUS

resilience & calming affect

VS

RETINOL

potent active & irritation risk

what the science says.

Snow Lotus is still being studied.

So far, there are no human clinical trials - only lab and animal research.

In a 2023 study (Frontiers in Pharmacology), Snow Lotus polysaccharides - natural sugars from the plant - helped reduce signs of UVB stress, including oxidative stress (cell damage from reactive oxygen species), DNA changes (called cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers), and inflammation.

Reviews of its chemistry show it’s rich in flavonoids and phenolic acids - plant compounds often linked to antioxidant and calming effects.

Promising? Definitely.

Proven in people? Not yet.

That’s why we’re clear: we use Snow Lotus for its potential and its symbolism - resilience in harsh conditions - not as a miracle ingredient

“Emerging research indicates that Snow Lotus extract helps fortify the skin’s natural defenses against environmental stressors. It’s not a retinol-like active, instead, we pair it with proven hydrators and barrier-supporting ingredients.”

how madkind uses it.

we pair Snow Lotus with hydrating and barrier-supporting ingredients across our collection.

in our Facial toner, serum and moisturizer, it joins forces with:

Glycerin & Urea & deep hydration

Shea Butter & Macadamia Oil & locks it in

Niacinamide & calm, smooth, support over time

The result? Comfort, consistency, and skin that feels more like yours again.

resilience. not perfection.

strength isn’t about resisting stress — it’s about adapting to it.

just like snow lotus doesn’t fight the elements, our skin doesn’t need to fight either. It needs support.

this ingredient reminds us that soft can be strong, and care can be powerful.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Comfort

More even-feeling texture

A great partner for hydrators + barrier creams

WHAT NOT TO EXPECT

Instant wrinkle erasure

Drug-like or clinical-level transformation

as always, we’ll be transparent about sourcing, concentration ranges, and research updates as they evolve.

questions about snow lotus?

Q: Does Snow Lotus help with wrinkles?

A: Not directly or instantly. Early research suggests antioxidant potential - meaning it may help protect skin over time - but it’s not a retinol or collagen booster. Think prevention, not correction.

Q: Is it safe for sensitive skin?

A: Generally, yes. It’s known for being gentle, especially when combined with barrier-supporting hydrators. Still, every skin is different - patch test first and listen to how yours responds.

Q: Why choose Snow Lotus over more common botanicals?

A: Because of what it represents. Snow Lotus survives in extreme conditions - calm, balanced, resilient. That story mirrors how we approach skincare: strength without aggression, results without harshness.