Lutein and Youe Skin

Recent study finds eye health antioxidant lutein important for healthy skin

The powerful antioxidant lutein has been regarded as a vital nutrient for eye health. Now, newer research suggests lutein's antioxidant action has a positive impact on skin health, too. Benefits include bolstering the skin's natural antioxidant defenses increasing the hydration of the skin, helping to protect skin from potentially damaging effects of sun and artificial light exposure.

A new study completed at the University of Naples indicated that lutein and its associated molecule zeaxanthin, when taken daily as a 10 mg oral lutein supplement, increased skin hydration by 38 percent, skin elasticity by 8 percent and the level of superficial lipids present in the skin by 33 percent after adjustments for placebo. Results also showed that lutein decreased oxidation of those beneficial lipids by 55 percent after adjustment for placebo.

The study further demonstrated that the combination of oral and topical administration of lutein/ zeaxanthin provided even more powerful improvements, increasing skin hydration by 60 percent, skin elasticity by 20 percent and the amount of superficial lipids present in the skin by 50 percent after adjustment for placebo, all while decreasing the oxidation of those beneficial lipids by 64 percent.

Lutein, a nutrient naturally found in dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale and collard greens, as well as broccoli, corn and egg yolks, is present in tissues in the eye, blood serum, skin, cervix, brain and breast. It is not produced by the human body and thus must be ingested daily through food or taken as a supplement. The study utilized FloraGLO Lutein from Kemin Health. FloraGLO Lutein is the world's leading patented, purified lutein.

The study adds to an existing body of research that suggests lutein, when taken on a daily basis, may help bolster the skin's natural antioxidant defense system, helping to protect skin from potentially damaging effects of sun and artificial light exposure.

More information on lutein is available online at the Lutein Information Bureau (www.luteininfo.com) or at www.floraglolutein.com.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

Natural Skin Care

Lutein and Your Skin