Astaxanthin and UV rays
Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from the sun and other sources can damage the skin, reducing its biological barrier function. In this study, 23 healthy Japanese men and women, aged 30 to 59, took 4 mg of astaxanthin per day, or a placebo.
At the beginning of the study, doctors tested participants’ skin to determine the smallest amount of UVR that would induce reddening, yet still fully recover within 24 hours. After nine weeks, skin in the astaxanthin group could be exposed to UVR longer without reddening, compared to placebo. Those taking astaxanthin also retained more skin moisture in the area exposed to UVR. In areas not exposed to UVR, the astaxanthin group also saw improved skin texture compared to placebo.
Collagen, antioxidants, and elasticity 
The skin loses collagen, elastin, and hyaluronic acid with age, creating wrinkles, sagging, discoloration, and dryness. In this study, 60 healthy men and women took a daily liquid collagen supplement, or a placebo.
After 90 days, while the placebo group had not changed, those taking the collagen supplement saw skin elasticity increase by 7.5 percent, and skin texture improve. Participants reported being able to see and feel improvements to the skin.
The collagen supplement also contained glucosamine, chondroitin, L-carnitine, hyaluronic acid, copper, zinc, B-complex vitamins, and vitamins C and D.
Discussing the findings, doctors said the bioactive peptides in collagen, plus other antioxidants, may help protect the skin from the effects of aging, and improve skin health.
Reference: Nutrients; 2018, Vol. 10, No. 7, 817
Natural Insights for Well Being November 2018
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