Resveratrol is a plant compound that acts as an antioxidant, protecting the skin and body from free-radicals that damage cell structures. It is commonly found in the skin and seeds of grapes and other berries, as well as in peanuts. Because of its natural antioxidant properties which help prevent free-radical damage and clean up cellular waste, resveratrol has wonderful benefits for the entire body. It can be consumed through certain foods and supplements and is often found in skincare products.
When it comes to skincare, resveratrol’s main benefit is its anti-aging properties. With its antioxidant power, it fights free-radical damage, minimizing the signs of aging, such as fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation. In addition, it has been found to stimulate healthy cell production, reversing damage done to production of collagen and elastin due to sun exposure, as well as reducing and decelerating cell damage responsible for skin cancer. Resveratrol also has strong anti-inflammatory benefits and can help reduce acne breakouts by stopping any irritation in your skin before it is able to create damage.
When used in skincare products, often in conjunction with other similar ingredients, resveratrol makes skin brighter, clearer, and more even.
In the human body as a whole, resveratrol is mainly responsible for reducing inflammation, which has a wide-range of positive effects from improving circulation to decreasing chances for stroke or heart attack.
In high doses – typically in a supplement form – it can reduce the pressure exerted on artery walls which elevates blood pressure. Resveratrol produces nitric oxide, which causes blood vessels to relax. As an antioxidant, it also may decrease the oxidation of "bad" LDL cholesterol which contributes to plaque buildup in artery walls. Another benefit is brain function protection. Resveratrol’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties with protein fragments called beta-amyloids, which form the plaques that are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Additionally, the compound may set off a chain of events that protects brain cells from damage.
Resveratrol can also suppress cancer cells, mainly hormone-dependent, i.e. colon, skin, breast, and prostate, by inhibiting cancer cell growth and changing gene expression. It has also been linked to preventing complications from diabetes and protecting joint cartilage from deteriorating, which causes arthritis.
The good news is, you may already consume a fair amount of resveratrol without even knowing it. It’s found in foods such as peanuts, pistachios, grapes, red and white wine, blueberries, cranberries, cocoa and dark chocolate. These foods also contain other nutrients and minerals that work together with resveratrol to deliver benefits for the body. If you do have a deficiency, supplements are readily available to fix the issue.
Resveratrol is a highly-safe antioxidant, however those with blood clotting disorders or hormone-sensitive conditions should avoid consuming it in high doses. It also has very low sensitivity risks and as such is suitable for topical use on all skin types.
In DP Dermaceuticals’ Retinal Active, resveratrol offers major support to the main player, retinaldehyde, to reverse, repair, and prevent damage from UV rays and aging. Many of the key benefits of Retinal Active are all aided by resveratrol:
• Regulated healthy cell renewal
• Reversed appearance of deep wrinkles, scars, and atrophy
• Strengthened and supported cell function
Click here to learn more about Retinal Active!