Abstract
Cosmetics are commercially available products that are used to improve the appearance of the skin. Since the late 1980s, consumer demand for more effective products that more substantively beautify the appearance has resulted in increased basic science research and product development in the cosmetics industry. The result has been more ingredients that may actually improve not just the appearance of the skin, but the health of the skin as well. We now have products that renew, restore, and rejuvenate—not just cleanse, protect, and moisturize. There is probably no greater focus of interest currently than the incorporation of vitamins and antioxidants in skin care products. There are considerable data to suggest the benefits of such ingredients in cosmetics. This article reviews the published data that support the usefulness of vitamins and antioxidants in cosmetics. Our job as dermatologists is to digest and assess the data so we can give knowledgeable recommendations to our patients. The ingestion and absorption of vitamins and antioxidants, most importantly through diet, and secondarily through intake of manufactured supplements, is critical to the health of human beings. The skin is the largest organ; as our primary external barrier, it is on the forefront of the battle with external causes of damaging free radicals. Ultraviolet light and environmental pollutants are known initiators of free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive molecules with an unpaired electron that result in damage to surrounding molecules and tissues. The most significant damage by free radicals is to biomembranes and to DNA. It is thought that additional, topical use of vitamins and antioxidants in cosmetics can better protect and possibly correct the damage by neutralizing these free radicals. In addition, some vitamins may be beneficial to the skin because of other actions such as effects of suppression of pigmentation and bruising, stimulation of collagen production, refinement of keratinization, or anti-inflammatory effects. Vitamin A
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