Carotenoids in human skin

Publication date: Available online 12 December 2019Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) - Molecular and Cell Biology of LipidsAuthor(s): Sarah Zerres, Wilhelm StahlAbstractThe skin is shielding our organism from exogenous threats including solar radiation. Carotenoids which are ingested with the diet accumulate in the skin with the highest levels occurring in skin of the forehead and in the palms of the hands. Blood and skin levels of carotenoids increase during supplementation and due to their antioxidant properties and UV-absorbing effects carotenoids are used as photoprotective agents. Systemic photoprotection with carotenoids after supplementation or ingestion of a carotenoid rich diet has been demonstrated in several human intervention studies. Although protection is only moderate it may contribute to UV protection in combination with other measures. Beyond photoprotection, ingestion of carotenoids has been postulated to be of additional benefit for cutaneous tissue and influences moisture and texture or elasticity of the skin. However, only a limited number of studies is available yet to substantiate such a claim.
Source: Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids - Category: Lipidology Source Type: research