Hot on the heels of a recent study linking sunscreen use with young and healthy looking skin, Newcastle University researchers have singled out Tiron, which they claim offers complete skin cell protection against UVA sun damage as well as free radical damage. In a world filled with concerns about skin cancer and anti-aging, these findings are significant, to say the least.
Exposure to UVA rays creates free radicals which, in turn, activate enzymes that break down collagen. Over time, this leads to wrinkles, fine lines and sagging and irreparable damage may be done to the DNA within the skin cells, leading to the acceleration of the aging process and cancer-causing cell mutations.
To test Tiron’s efficacy, researchers treated skin cells with a number of different antioxidants before exposing them to UVA radiation equivalent to the exposure on an average summer’s day. The DNA within the skin cells were compared before and after exposure and Tiron was found to have provided 100% protection against UVA damage and free radical damage. Resveratrol, an antioxidant found in red wine, provided 22% protection against UVA damage while curcumin’s antioxidant powers provided 8%. Researchers concluded that what gave Tiron its edge was its ability to target the mitochondria, or “batteries”, of the skin cells with its shielding capabilities.
Exciting news for sure as an antioxidant that can offer 100% protection against UVA damage would be a superior anti-aging ingredient. Vanity aside, Tiron would be welcome in the world of healthcare as well, with huge potential to help minimize the development of skin cancer. However, don’t expect to see Tiron in any skin care treatments or supplements for a number of years. Tiron is synthetically made and used exclusively for lab experiments at this point in time. Researchers are hopeful that a naturally occurring antioxidant with a similar molecular structure to Tiron will be found with comparable potential.
Until then? Not to sound boring, but there’s nothing like the tried and true:
- Minimize your exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours
- Cover up, wear sunglasses and use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB blocking sunscreen like Anthelios daily.
- Incorporate antioxidants into your daily skin care regimen to do battle against free radicals. We’re big fans of Apothekari Undercover Agent with the proven power of vitamins C and E.
Maybe not as exciting as Tiron. But, widely available and will help protect your skin.
