Resveratrol

3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene
Common Name: {Resveratrol}

Resveratrol is an antioxidant found naturally in nature, especially in red grape skins that make wine and chocolate.

Recently, studies have shown that people that eat or drink a moderate amount of chocolate or red wine have better health than those who do not.

Cosmetic companies have isolated and extracted the vital antioxidant to be applied topically to the skin for those same benefits.

Because it is primarily an antioxidant, it does what all antioxidants do; it protects the skin restoring its health and attracts and neutralizes free radicals. Free radicals in the skin can cause premature signs of aging and are created in the skin through too much time in the sun or environmental pollutants. Antioxidants help to prevent the cells of the skin from becoming oxidized.

Resveratrol is also an anti-inflammatory. When taken internally, it helps relieve chronic conditions exacerbated by inflammation. On the skin, it can help reduce the appearance of inflammation, which manifests as swelling and redness and often accompanies conditions like psoriasis and eczema.

By calming this irritation, the skin can return to a more balanced state and perform the necessary functions.

Resveratrol in Skin Care

Some researchers claim that it triggers a gene in our DNA that promotes longer, healthier lives. While this has not yet been proven, some studies have shown that resveratrol's topical application can prolong healthy skin cells' lives. Plus, it aids in regenerating even healthier, longer-living skin cells, pushing dead, dying cells to the surface to reveal younger-looking, more vibrant skin.

This antioxidant can also improve circulation when consumed and applied to the skin. As the skin ages, its veins constrict, impeding blood flow and making it harder for the skin to regenerate itself. As a result, some women will see spider veins begin to appear on their cheeks. With improved blood flow, the look of these spider veins will start to fade.

What Skin Conditions does Resveratrol Target?

• Dull Complexions
• Age Spots
• Hyperpigmentation
• Regenerating Mature Skin
• Dead Skin Cell Turnover

Better circulation also means that there will be more blood in the skin to wash away toxins and impurities, giving your complexion a dull look. It also helps break up darkened skin, whether age spots or hyperpigmentation. Better circulation is essential for healthy, young-looking skin.

The most common uses for resveratrol are sunblock, anti-aging serums, accelerating renewal, and creams designed to reduce redness in the face.

Kari Thomas wrote this article.