If you love winding down with a chilled glass of Syrah or Merlot, you’re probably familiar with the fact that it’s good for the heart.
But, do you red wine might also be incredible for your skin?
Well, credit this to resveratrol, a powerhouse skincare ingredient found in the skin of grapes.
According to studies, this potent antioxidant offers a myriad of health benefits and has positive effects on sun-damaged skin.
But (and not to sound like a skeptic), can that glass of Cabernet really act as an ideal addition to your skincare routine just as it does for your ‘after a hard day’ plans?
Or, is there a more practical way (albeit less tempting) to reap the skin-replenishing benefits of resveratrol?
Well, with the slew of research studies surrounding this star ingredient, here’s a guide to resveratrol, its benefits, and how you should use it to achieve sun-damage-free skin.
Quick Facts
Properties Featured: Antioxidants
Primary Benefits: Safeguards skin from sun damage and improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
Perfect For: Individuals struggling with sun-damaged skin, and all skin types
Not Suitable For: Persons with sensitive skin and pregnant moms
How Often Can You Use It: Every morning, as long as you’re aware of how your skin responds to the powerhouse ingredient
Works Well With: Other potent antioxidants like ferulic acid
Shouldn’t Be Used With: There haven’t been any warnings regarding mixing it with other skincare ingredients, yet
What is Resveratrol?
The double-edged sword of the skincare universe is an all-natural antioxidants present in the skin of grapes, berries (like blueberries, mulberries, and cranberries), pistachio, peanuts, and dark chocolate.
Resveratrol comes in liquid, pill, or powder form, and you can find it in numerous skin care products like creams, serums, and moisturizers.
According to studies, resveratrol is considered a part of compounds known as polyphenols. These active ingredients are chock-full of antioxidants, and they serve in the front line as the Pantauchuses to neutralize free radicals produced by radiation, air pollution, and cigarette smoke.
This form of cellular damage accelerates cellular aging by increasing oxidative stress on the skin.
While most resveratrol-packed OTC skincare products are fully stable, many dermatologists recommend using products placed in air-tight containers.
You should also store these products in a cool, dark place.
Advantages of Using Resveratrol
When resveratrol is applied topically, its main benefit is to safeguard your skin from free radical damage. However, the all-star antioxidant also offers a few other benefits, including:
Slows Aging: Resveratrol helps mitigate signs of photo-aging by triggering healthy cell proliferation. It forms complex compounds with specific metal ions, inhibiting their ability to create free radicals, thus boosting cellular function and stimulating collagen production.
Safeguards the Skin: Resveratrol interrupts various environmental influences and helps protect your skin from UV damage. The skin is the largest organ in the body and acts as your body’s first line of defense.
Therefore, using a potent antioxidant like resveratrol can help enhance your skin’s natural barrier so that your skin appears smoother, revitalized, and healthier.
Evens Out Your Skin: Not only does the superstar element brighten and evens out your skin tone, but it also helps boost the overall texture of your skin.
Reduces Hyperpigmentation: The potent ingredient helps mitigate the appearance of dark spots. It also contains skin-calming properties that minimize redness and soothe inflammation.
Hydrates the Skin: Resveratrol moisturizes your skin and prevents it from scaling or flaking.
How to Use the Powerful Antioxidant
Consistency is key here if you’re looking to achieve maximum results. Since it works as an antioxidant, dermatologists recommend using it as part of your nighttime routine.
Quality sleep, in general, is vital for glowing skin. But with your antioxidant in place, you can capitalize on the heightened nighttime repair function to enhance antioxidant production within the skin cells and allow for more collagen production.
Top Tip: How you layer this ingredient will depend on the type of product you’re using. If it’s a serum, you should apply it after cleansing, or toner, if you use it in your nighttime routine.
If it’s in your moisturizer, apply it right after cleansing or toning, twice a day, in the mornings and evenings.
You can also use resveratrol alongside other skincare ingredients like baicalin, Vitamin C & E, glycolic acid, ferulic acid, ceramides, peptides, and bakuchiol.
Side Effects of Using Resveratrol
There are no published studies concerning side effects triggered by using resveratrol. It is well-tolerated and non-irritating, making it perfect for all skin types.
However, if you have sensitive skin, be sure to do a patch test before including the ingredient into your repertoire.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, be sure to also consult your doctor before using the ingredient topically.
If you opt to take resveratrol as a supplement, there’s a chance it might interact with your blood thinners or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin.
Therefore, ensure you check with your physician to see if you should add it as a supplement.
