Resveratrol 101: What You Need to Know About This Anti-Aging MVP
A glass of red wine a day may be good for your heart, but did you know it could also be good for your skin? Credit this to resveratrol, the anti-aging superstar found in red-grape skin. This antioxidant powerhouse boasts of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to protect the skin against the effects of oxidative stress and sun damage. But drinking wine isn’t the only way to reap the protective, skin-revitalizing benefits of resveratrol. With so much research around this powerhouse ingredient, learn more about why it should be part of your anti-aging arsenal.
What Is Resveratrol?
Resveratrol is a type of polyphenol—or natural substances packed with micronutrients that can be found in plants—that is naturally present in grapes, berries (such as cranberries, blueberries and mulberries), peanuts, pistachio and cacao beans. The skin and seeds of red grapes are the most abundant sources of resveratrol, which results in significant concentrations of this compound in red wine. A phytoalexin, resveratrol is produced by plants as a protective antibiotic to fight off fungal attacks, drought, UV radiation and inflammation.
How Does Resveratrol Benefit the Skin?
While much of the research around this “longevity molecule” has focused on its internal use, resveratrol has also been shown to be an effective topical antioxidant against free radicals. Antioxidants are essential in neutralizing these skin-aging molecules that are produced by the aging process and other factors such as UV damage, pollution and lifestyle habits like cigarette smoking.
As a powerful antioxidant, resveratrol not only works against free radicals, it also helps improve the look of fine lines, hyperpigmentation, texture and overall radiance. And because of its skin-renewing effects, resveratrol is a perfect addition to your nighttime repair routine. This is especially important as our skin loses its ability to restore itself in our sleep as we age. While antioxidant use in the morning is as essential as using sunscreen, restricting resveratrol use in the evening also lets you maximize its benefits as UV rays could render resveratrol much less effective.
“Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties, which calm down the skin, reduce skin-aging and may keep [the skin] free of infections,” explains Dr. Viseslav Tonkovic-Capin, M.D., a double board-certified dermatologist in Kansas City, MO. Due to its antimicrobial properties, resveratrol inhibits the growth of acne-causing bacteria, as well as enhances the effects of the acne-fighter benzoyl peroxide. It also tackles acne inflammation and post-acne scarring by reducing redness, calming the skin and lightening dark spots, giving you a more even complexion.
Precautions to Note
The possible side effects of resveratrol have not been studied extensively, but in general, skin care products with resveratrol don’t have any severe or toxic side effects on your health, says Dr. Tonkovic-Capin. However, a 2016 study suggests that resveratrol can react to the platelets in the bloodstream, making them “less sticky” and increasing the risk of bleeding for those who take anticoagulant medication. Resveratrol is also chemically related to estrogen, which may affect those with estrogen-related health conditions and women who are trying to conceive.
Ready to reap the benefits of this antioxidant all-star? Here are our top picks for best skin care products with resveratrol.
406 reviews
$168.00
40 reviews
$95.00
8 reviews
$85.00
6 reviews
$125.00
Janeca Racho is a Journalism graduate with over 15 years of writing experience. After getting her start in public relations and advertising, she made the switch to freelance writing and began working for various lifestyle, fashion, and travel brands. Her love for all things skincare has led her to beauty reporting and research for the last ten years. Writing for several hair and beauty blogs, she reports on anti-aging staples, trending brands and products, must-have ingredients, and health and wellness.
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