Here's what you need to know about resveratrol.

Resveratrol (3, 4', 5-trihydroxystilbene) is a polyphenolic phytoalexin naturally found in various plant species, such as red grape skins, peanuts, the skins of a variety of berries, and Japanese knotweed roots (Polygonum cuspidatum). It is produced in plants as a form of defense mechanism against exogenous stress stimuli such as UV light, fungal infections, exposure to chemical fertilizers

In China, its medicinal virtues have been recognized for years. Indeed, its rhizome was traditionally consumed to treat ailments such as bronchitis, intestinal discomfort, hypertension, and even snake bites. Naturalized in Europe and America in the early 19th century, it has become an invasive species listed among the 100 most concerning by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) .

In skincare, resveratrol is present under various I.N.C.I. names, the most common being the "Polygonum Cuspidatum Root Extract". Its concentration varies between 0.005 and 5%. This active ingredient is one of the compounds that generates the most scientific publications in the cosmetic field, due to its excellent antioxidant power that helps combat skin aging.

Resveratrol is a multi-functional active ingredient:

• It combats skin aging caused by frequent attacks from free radicals thanks to its dual antioxidant action.

  Resveratrol operates on two levels to combat oxidative stress: it protects cells from free radicals and encourages them to produce more endogenous antioxidants. As a reminder, free radicals are reactive oxygen species naturally produced by the body. However, when cells are faced with a stress, they produce them excessively. Stress sources are numerous, the main ones being exposure to UVA, pollution, smoking, and a diet too rich in fats and/or sugars. Free radicals are particularly unstable molecules due to their single electron. They tend to react with other molecules to form a pair of electrons, and thus cause damage to cells, DNA, and proteins in the body. This accelerates aging and wrinkles appear on the skin's surface. Resveratrol is a polyphenol that captures free radicals, preventing them from causing harm and accelerating the natural aging of the epidermis. The antioxidant effect of resveratrol is attributed to the 4'-hydroxyl group but also to the meta configuration of the two hydroxyl groups of the first benzene group of the molecule.

• It reduces acne and regulates sebum production.

  Commonacne is a chronic and prevalent dermatological disease. It is characterized by the emergence of non-inflammatory lesions (comedones) and inflammatory effusions (papules, pustules) in seborrheic areas. The three main causes of acne are increased sebum production,
  hyperkeratosis of hair follicles (epidermal hyperproliferation)
  and the colonization of the bacterium Propionibacterium acnes. Thanks to its antibacterial and sebum-regulating properties, resveratrol reduces acne.

• Calming, it reduces skin inflammation.

  Studies conducted on epithelial cells have demonstrated the action of resveratrol on the COX-2 enzyme, which is responsible for the production of prostaglandins, lipid mediators of inflammation derived from arachidonic acid.

• Resveratrol diminishes the appearance of pigmentation spots.

  The appearance of brown spots is linked to several factors: the natural aging of the skin, exposure to external aggressions such as pollution and UV rays, the intake of certain medications, hormonal fluctuations. As a reminder, hyperpigmentation is defined as a disruption in the pigmentation process: the melanin, pigment responsible for the natural coloration of the skin, is overproduced in certain areas which leads to the appearance of brown, red, or pink spots that can sometimes be unsightly. Studies have shown that resveratrol is capable of modulating the activity of tyrosinase, an enzyme essential to the melanogenesis process.

Due to its numerous virtues previously described and its high skin tolerance, resveratrol is an active ingredient found in many cosmetic products, suitable for all skin types. Indeed, it is present in certain serums and creams aimed at mature skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and/or pigmentation spots. It is also found in treatments for combination to oily skin with blemishes. Because of its soothing properties, it is also included in the composition of some repairing body lotions...

Our antioxidant face serum with 3% ferulic acid and 3% resveratrol neutralizes free radicals induced by UV and pollution, slows down premature skin aging, and enhances radiance for a brighter and more even complexion.

• AHMAD N. & et al. The grape antioxidant resveratrol for skin disorders: promise, prospects, and challenges. Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics (2011).

• SIANO M. & al. Resveratrol-Containing Gel for the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Single-Blind, Vehicle-Controlled, Pilot Study. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology (2011).

• ARCT J. & al. Resveratrol as an Active Ingredient for Cosmetic and Dermatological Applications: A Review. Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy (2018).