The skin is in permanent contact with the outside environment. Keeping it moist strengthens the skin’s natural barrier against external aggressors. For centuries stevia has been used by Guarani Indians in many medicinal remedies as well as for sweetening their matés and curative teas. Rich in stevioside, a major glycoside with a sweetening capacity 300 times greater than that of sucrose, stevia has a long-lasting nourishing and moisturising effect on the skin. Its leaves also contain flavonoids that protect the plant from the harmful effects of solar radiation. When applied to the skin, these flavonoids have anti-radical properties that fight against collagen fibre alteration and thus slow down ageing and maintain tissue tone. Phytessence Stevia GL significantly increased skin hydration and smoothness compared to the placebo (glycerin) and untreated skin.