If you are into skin care, you have probably heard of antioxidants for the skin. Touted as super ingredients that can turn back the clock, they can be found in all kinds of creams, gels and serums. But did you know that a particularly powerful antioxidant is naturally found in your favorite glass of red wine?
Its name is resveratrol and here's everything you need to know about boosting skin.
What is resveratrol?
Resveratrol is a plant compound that can be found in many foods, including grapes, red wine, some berries and peanuts. It has antioxidant properties and neutralizes free radicals that can damage the skin. A 2010 research review showed that the free radical molecules that resveratrol fights create the effects of aging in the skin and can damage any cell in the body.
Therefore, researchers have discovered that resveratrol can help protect against cardiovascular disease, neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, and even some forms of cancer.
How and where is it used as a treatment?
Effects of Aging
One of the main benefits of resveratrol is its ability to reduce the effects of aging on the skin. As we age, we lose our natural collagen and elastin. We begin to experience a thinning of the skin. Antioxidants are believed to help protect against the accelerating effect of aging due to free radical damage. As previously mentioned, resveratrol can do double duty by neutralizing free radicals and boosting antioxidant levels so your skin can better defend itself and repair itself.
Environmental stress
Whether it's the sun or pollution, your skin has many environmental factors to deal with. Resveratrol has been found to help protect against UV damage and may evenreduce pigmentation caused by the sun.
Redness
Thanks to its calming properties, resveratrol can also minimize inflammation and skin redness.
Dry skin
Dry patches of skin can be a thing of the past if resveratrol is added to your diet or applied directly to your skin. Conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are also improved with the use of resveratrol.
Wild/rough leather
Texture may also improve, according to a 2012 study that found skin felt smoother after 60 days of resveratrol supplementation.
How and when to use it
Resveratrol comes in many forms, from dietary supplements to moisturizers and serums, but it's best applied topically.
A 2017 research review showed that resveratrol has photosensitizing properties, making nighttime application even more appropriate.
Where you place it in your skincare routine depends on the product you use. If it is in a heavier night cream, use it immediately at the end of your evening treatment. But if you buy a light serum that contains resveratrol, you can use it sooner.
Just make sure to cleanse, exfoliate and tone your skin first.
Final remarks
If you want to boost the appearance and health of your skin, resveratrol is a powerful ingredient to consider. It has protective benefits, can help reduce the effects of aging and can easily be added to any skin care regimen. Of course, boosting your diet with the antioxidant can also be beneficial. But applying it directly to your skin is likely to be much more effective.
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The Pharmnet Blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any health condition. Each case is unique and a discussion with your doctor or pharmacist is essential!
