A lot of attention has been drawn to grape seed extract over the past few years. Grapes are a known source of antioxidants and when consumed, have shown the ability to inhibit the progress of free radicals. Because the oxidation process caused by free radicals can lead to wrinkles, the properties of grapes are thought to be an effective solution for reducing them. As a result, cosmetics manufacturers have quickly added grape seed extract to several of their anti-wrinkle products. Today, I’ll describe what we know for certain about grape seed extract along with its potential as an anti-wrinkle formulation.
UV Rays, Free Radicals, And Wrinkles
First, a quick review of how wrinkles occur. There are a number of factors that lead to wrinkles and fine lines, including hormone production levels, UV exposure, and free radicals. When a person is exposed to excessive UV rays, pollution, and other elements, the oxidation of free radicals may accelerate, resulting in the collagen fibers breaking down. Over time, this can lead to the development of wrinkles.
Consumption Versus Topical Formulation
When consumed, grapes are a rich source of antioxidants, which are known to prevent free radical damage. The theory behind grape seed extract is that by including it within skin care products, consumers can benefit from the antioxidant properties of grapes. As a result, the damaging effect that free radicals have on the skin is inhibited, preventing wrinkles and fine lines.
The question is whether applying a topical formulation that includes the extract is as effective in delivering the antioxidants as consuming grapes. To date, there are very few documented studies based upon rigorous clinical testing. The studies which have been conducted either lack a large sample size, or don’t offer a clear comparison of results before and after the application of the topical solution. This is not to suggest that including grape seed extract in cosmetic products doesn’t work. It only suggests that there is a need for more rigorous testing.
Proven Efficacy Versus Potential
Even though the use of grape seed extract in topical formulations has not been proven as a preventative measure against wrinkles, it has potential. We know that grapes provide useful antioxidants such as proanthocyanidin that are potent antioxidants. Studies have shown some benefit in reducing tumors and healing wounds in mice. However, whether this translates to benefiting wrinkles in human skin is unclear. Though we know that grape seed extract will afford antioxidant activity in skin care products, we’ve yet to see reliable data regarding its efficacy in skin care products.
In the meantime, the following formulations do have a proven track record of success for helping to prevent and diminish the appearance of wrinkles:
Redermic XL – Madecassoside, Vitamin C and UVA/UVB sun protection to help increase collagen production and protect against sun damage.
UltimaSkin Anti-Aging Face Care Set – A 3-solution package that includes a moisturizer for dry skin, along with eye and face serums that contain Alpha Lipoic Acid and Vitamin C, potent antioxidants.
Active C XL – 5% concentration of Vitamin C along with UVA and UVB blocking protection to encourage the production of healthy new collagen fibers and protect against sun damage that leads to wrinkles.
I liked this article because you did have the gumption to actually address the question of whether or not the topical application differs from the ingested application. This is much appreciated because so many commercial sites would only address the positive side of topical and would usually ignore the question of the difference. Thanks for that insight and info.