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Appearing in a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, carotenoids have been shown to be nature’s perfect skin vitamins as they build healthy, resilient skin.
While nutritionists recommend eating kale, tomatoes, carrots, and oranges for a variety of reasons, their carotenoid content — which also accounts for their wonderful red, orange and yellow colors — is one of their best features when it comes to skin care.
Carotenoids are believed to have powerful antioxidant properties beneficial to humans from the inside out. In fact, a carotenoid-rich diet can even help protect against common killers such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, in addition to reducing inflammation and boosting immune function. So far, researchers have identified about 600 of these powerful phytonutrients, including beta carotene, zeaxanthin, lutein, astaxanthin, lycopene and more appearing in a wide variety of flora.
Given the power these plant compounds have to improve skin health, it should come as no surprise that lycopene and other carotenoids are used in skincare products, and supplements.
Here’s what you should know about these compounds and how they promote a healthy glow!
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How do carotenoids promote skin health?
These plant pigments contribute to normal skin color and reduce the harmful effects of UV radiation. Lycopene, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene have the strongest antioxidant action.
Carotenoids may also help minimize the effects of aging and improve skin appearance due to their ability to reduce free radical damage. Free radicals affect every tissue in your body, including your skin. Over time, they increase oxidative stress and cause cell damage. Oxidative stress affects skin elasticity and promotes the formation of wrinkles. If left unaddressed, it may lead to premature aging and skin diseases.
Carotenoids like lutein and lycopene reduce free radical cell damage following exposure to sunlight, or UV radiation, and may even improve skin tone. In clinical trials, these antioxidants have been found to protect the skin cells from cancer and premature aging.
The deeply pigmented carotenoids reduce UV-induced erythema so they help protect against sunburn, like a magic inner shield. All carotenoids may prevent collagen degradation, leading to younger-looking skin.
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Prevent Skin Damage Before It Starts
Now that you know more about carotenoids, you can start filling up on orange and red fruits and vegetables to keep your skin looking young and healthy. For an added boost, try AVEGAN’s NutraChic beauty drink, which boasts a dose of patented carotenoids with every healthy sip.
As far as your skincare routine goes, you should opt for organic creams and serums, as the chemicals in traditional skincare products increase oxidative stress. Some compounds may also trigger allergic reactions.
AVEGAN Beauty uses organic plant-based ingredients that nourish your skin, without ingredients that may harm your overall health. Browse our online shop or book a consultation for help in choosing the best products for your specific needs!
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