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Alpha Lipoic Acid
A Powerful Skin Anti-Aging Nutrient
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is a naturally occurring complex found in foods such
as spinach, broccoli and yeast. Internally, ALA is essential for cell function,
energy production and as an antioxidant, but it is not essential in the
nutritional sense because our bodies make it. Our skin also makes this substance
however as we age the level in our skin and body declines. Older skin may
actually be ‘starved’ of this important nutrient.
As an antioxidant, ALA is both water and fat soluble, which means it is able
to reach and protect both water and lipid portions of skin. This is particularly
relevant to our skin as fats play a vital role in maintaining healthy skin. One
of the roles ALA plays in the health of the skin is to inhibit cross- linking
which is the formation of chemical bridges between proteins or other large
molecules. Cross- linking contributes to the aging process by causing hardening
of arteries, stiffening of the joints and wrinkling of the skin.
Topically ALA acts as an important skin antioxidant that penetrates skin cell
membranes, where it neutralises free radicals and increases the effectiveness of
other antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. By reducing free radical damage it
potentially slows the effects of ageing. In studies ALA has shown strong
potential as an anti-wrinkle agent. In one small-scale study, high potency
lipoic acid reduced mild-to-moderate wrinkles by up to 50 percent, whereas fine
lines almost disappeared. In another study, lipoic acid significantly improved
the appearance of certain types of scars.
The other benefit of ALA topically is that is less irritating than Retin A
and hydroxy acids. This means it can be used in the delicate and wrinkle-prone
area around the eyes.
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