Have you ever heard of resveratrol? It sounds familiar but you are not sure? Well, we are here to share the main benefits of the dietary supplement for the skin. It acts as a prevention against aging, and it also protects and improves the overall appearance of the skin.
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What is resveratrol?
Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant that is contained in a high concentration in the skin of grapes, as well as in raspberries, prunes, peanuts, and even dark chocolate. The most common resveratrol used as a dietary supplement is extracted from a Japanese weed. Its absorption with oral intake is higher in the early hours of the day. Available in powder, liquid, or tablet form, it can also be an ingredient of various cosmetic skin care products – serums, creams, and hydrating lotions. Resveratrol is part of a group of compounds called polyphenols. These polyphenols act as key antioxidants that protect the cells from cellular aging. When the ingredient is applied topically, the main function of resveratrol is to protect the surface of the skin.
Currently, no studies have discovered any negative side effects of resveratrol for the skin, but it has been established that its supplementary intake may interact with blood thinners and NSAID medications like aspirin and ibuprofen. In these cases, the specialists recommend consulting with your primary physician, dermatologist, or internist before starting your new supplement or skincare routine.
Resveratrol has been found to inhibit the growth of the bacteria that cause acne. It has also been established to increase the antibacterial properties of benzoyl peroxide. The powerful antioxidant nature of resveratrol successfully neutralises the free radicals, and thus, it potentially reduces oxidative stress and damage to the skin caused by some environmental factors like UV radiation and pollution. Its additional benefits include its assistance in promoting the skin’s natural collagen production, as well as the skin’s elasticity and firmness, while potentially reducing the formation of fine lines and wrinkles.
What are the benefits of using resveratrol
Resveratrol prevents skin sun damage
Resveratrol is able to disrupt negative environmental influences, as well as to protect the skin from UV damage. The skin is our largest organ and it functions as the body’s first line of defense against harmful microorganisms. The use of an antioxidant like resveratrol strengthens the skin’s natural barriers so it looks and feels smoother and healthier.
Resveratrol slows down the aging process
Resveratrol works on a cellular level to counteract the aging process in several ways. It stimulates the cell division, it improves the cellular function and it triggers the fibroblasts during the collagen synthesis. Resveratrol is highly effective in combating the harmful effects of the free radicals that cause skin aging. Clinical studies have demonstrated that resveratrol reduces the free radicals and the inflammatory processes in the organism, which automatically turns it into the philosopher’s stone of youth. It also mimics the effects of calorie restriction, which further inhibits the aging process. One of the theories that scientists use to explain aging is the so-called “cellular senescence”. As we age, our cells become less able to withstand stress, they lose their function to regenerate and begin to produce inflammatory substances. This loss of cellular function and the inflammation on the cellular level subsequently spread to all organs and tissues: the brain, the heart, the muscles, and the skin. On the basis of conducted cellular research, scientists believe that resveratrol inhibits the aging process of the entire organism.
Resveratrol reduces redness
Resveratrol soothes the skin, and its daily intake helps to minimise the redness and the inflammations. It brightens and it even tones the skin while working to improve its overall texture.
Resveratrol hydrates the skin
It moisturises the skin on the cellular level and prevents its dehydration over time.
Resveratrol aids in the treatment of acne
Clinical studies have demonstrated that a two-month intake of resveratrol reduces the severity of acne by almost 70% and improves overall skin health by over 50%.
Antioxidant protection
Further clinical evidence supports the claim that resveratrol may have a dual antioxidant activity: as a direct antioxidant and as a compound that can boost up some other antioxidant enzymes. Oxidative stress and inflammation cause or worsen a host of conditions – from heart disease and diabetes to cancer and cognitive decline.
The experts recommend the intake of resveratrol as a supplement and its application as part of the bedtime cosmetic care routine.
Quality sleep is crucial for the healthy skin. Furthermore, the supplementary intake of antioxidants – especially resveratrol – can trigger an enhancement of the recovery function at night and the antioxidant production in the skin cells. So, in order to obtain the maximum benefits for your overall immunity and, particularly, for your local skin immunity, the experts advise you to opt for its intake in different forms. For an even stronger effect, you could bet mainly on the inclusion of fresh products that contain resveratrol as part of your balanced diet – raspberries, peanuts, grapes, and dark chocolate. Its skin health benefits are enhanced with its longer and higher dosage intake. However the dosages must be prescribed and monitored by a specialist.
How to include resveratrol in your skincare?
In reality, the integration of resveratrol into your skincare routine is fairly easy.
First of all, you need to choose the right products depending on your skin type. In general, it acts best when used in a serum or moisturiser form. But do make sure to look for products that list it high up on their ingredient list, as this indicates a higher concentration. Also, do make sure to use formulations that contain skincare ingredients complementary to its actions. Thus, you will enhance its effects.
Secondly, apply it by gently massaging the product onto your clean and dry skin to ensure its better absorption. If you are using a resveratrol-containing serum, layer it after cleansing and toning, but before applying any heavier serums or creams. If you are using it in a moisturising product, apply it as the final step of your skincare routine at night and before your SPF in the morning.
Last but not least, make sure that you use resveratrol regularly and patiently. Keep in mind that it takes time to obtain your desired results.