RESVERATROL BENEFITS THE SKIN
In 1997 researchers discovered that resveratrol, when applied to the skin of mice, reduced the incidence of skin +Tumormiks by 98%. This discovery initiated worldwide research on this compound, which continues to amaze me. A few weeks ago, a group from UCLA added another beneficial function that resveratrol has on the skin. [1]
Resveratrol slows the growth of acne-causing bacteria
Dr. Emma Taylor’s team discovered that resveratrol was found to enhance the effects of acne medication used to treat the bacterium that causes acne (Dermatology and Therapy, DOI: 10.1007/s13555-014-0063-0). The researchers measured the death rate of the bacteria by treating them with benzoyl peroxide, an acne medication. [2]
Resveratrol lasts longer than acne medication.
The team observed that the bacteria did indeed die from this treatment but that the treatment’s effectiveness was short-lived, lasting less than a day. The researchers also treated the bacteria with resveratrol. They observed that resveratrol did not necessarily lead to the bacterium's death that causes acne but somewhat slowed bacterium growth for several days. The research team classified this phenomenon as a long-term effect. [3]
Resveratrol + Acne Medication shows the best results
The researchers then compared the combination treatment of resveratrol and benzoyl peroxide and observed a dramatic reduction in bacteria growth and an increase in the killing of bacteria. It now appears that resveratrol may be used as a new therapeutic option for treating acne. [4]
What happens if I eat more foods containing Resveratrol
Red wine is not the only food rich in Resveratrol; grapes, peanuts, and dark chocolate are excellent options. You should be aware that although this diet can improve your skin's health, you would need to consume a lot of Resveratrol to see a significant difference.
Topically applying Resveratrol will prove more effective, as it ensures that the beneficial properties penetrate the skin. [5]
The Bottom Line
Resveratrol is a powerful ingredient that can improve your skin's health and appearance. It can provide protection and help to reduce the signs of aging. Supplementing your diet with antioxidants can be beneficial, too.
However, applying it directly to your skin will be more effective.
References:
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1473-2165.2008.00354.x
- https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/11530630-000000000-00000
- https://academic.oup.com/jac/article-abstract/59/6/1182/714335
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0924857919300457
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/14764172.2018.1469767
