What is Resveratrol?
Resveratrol, also known as 1,3-Benzenediol, 5-[(1E)-2-(4-Hydroxyphenyl)ethenyl]-, is a naturally occurring phenol that is often found in the skin of grapes, berries, and peanuts. This compound is a type of polyphenol, which is a group of compounds known for their antioxidant properties. Resveratrol is also found in red wine, which is why it has been a subject of interest in the health and wellness community for many years.
The use of Resveratrol in cosmetics is a relatively recent development. It was first isolated in 1940, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that its potential health benefits began to be explored in depth. The discovery of its antioxidant and skin-protecting properties led to its incorporation into a variety of cosmetic products.
Resveratrol is typically produced for commercial use through extraction from plants, such as Japanese knotweed, which has a high concentration of this compound. The extraction process involves the use of solvents to separate the Resveratrol from the plant material, followed by purification to ensure the final product is of high quality.
While there are other antioxidants used in cosmetics, such as Vitamin C and E, Resveratrol stands out due to its unique properties. Unlike some other antioxidants, Resveratrol is stable in the presence of light and oxygen, which makes it an ideal ingredient for skincare products. Additionally, it has been shown to have both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to protect the skin from damage and reduce signs of aging.
Resveratrol is typically used in a variety of cosmetic products, including moisturizers, serums, and anti-aging creams. Its antioxidant properties make it a popular choice for products designed to protect the skin from environmental damage, while its anti-inflammatory properties can help to soothe and calm irritated skin.
Benefits and Uses
In this section, we will delve into the officially recognized benefits and uses of Resveratrol:
Antioxidant Properties
Resveratrol is recognized for its potent antioxidant properties. In simple terms, antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures. In the context of skincare, this means that Resveratrol can help protect the skin from the harmful effects of environmental pollutants, UV radiation, and other factors that can lead to premature aging. This can result in a healthier, more youthful-looking complexion.
Skin Protecting
Another official function of Resveratrol is its skin-protecting capabilities. This means that it can help to fortify the skin’s barrier, which is the outermost layer of the skin that helps to keep harmful substances out and essential moisture in. A stronger skin barrier can lead to improved skin health and appearance, as it can better defend against irritants and stressors, while preventing dryness and dehydration.
It’s important to note that these benefits are based on the officially recognized and defined functions of Resveratrol. There may be other potential benefits and uses of this ingredient that go beyond the scope of these official functions. However, these additional benefits are not officially recognized and should be considered with caution until further research is conducted.
Safety Profile
Resveratrol is not a banned or regulated ingredient in cosmetics. It is generally considered safe for use in skincare and cosmetic products. However, like any ingredient, it may not be suitable for everyone and may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
Potential side effects of topical application of Resveratrol include:
- Redness
- Itching
- Skin irritation
A note for women who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding – There is currently insufficient data on the safety of topical use of Resveratrol during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for further advice.
Adverse reactions to Resveratrol are not common, but they can occur. It is always recommended to perform a patch test before using any new product widely on your skin.
This ingredient analysis has been commissioned by Truth In Skincare (TiS), an independent industry regulator. The analysis was conducted by a TiS-appointed industry consultant whose sources include CosIng (Cosmetic Ingredient Database – by the European Commission), the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), The US Food & Drug Administration (FDA) as well as other various publicly available sources.
