PYCNOGENOL - THE ANTIOXIDANT KING

Much has been documented about the health benefits of consuming antioxidants, including Pycnogenol, as a means of deterring premature skin aging.  In addition to diet supplementation, topical application of antioxidants is also very effective.  For one reason or another, the benefits of topically applied Pycnogenol have received very little publicity, which is unfortunate, as it is far superior to other, more common antioxidants found in anti-aging skin care products.

Pycnogenol is the registered trademark for the unique extract obtained from the bark of French maritime pine trees.  Extensive research has shown that it is a powerful antioxidant proven to have a significant effect on the skin when taken orally or applied topically.  Pycnogenol is a super antioxidant in that it is 20 times more powerful than vitamin C and 50 times more powerful than vitamin E in fighting free radicals.  It is dramatically more effective than lipoic acid and grapeseed extract.  Studies have shown that it is 98% effective in fighting free radicals in skin tissue.  In addition to its potent antioxidant activity, Pycnogenol also exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, and supports microcirculation.

Wrinkles are a result of the breakdown of the fibers that support our skin, namely, collagen and elastin.  Pycnogenol works by binding to these fibers thereby inhibiting enzymes and free radicals from breaking them down.  As a result, the development of wrinkles is deterred.

One of the most profound causes of premature skin damage is photo-aging, that caused by the sun.  Pycnogenol protects the skin from accelerated aging that results from exposure to the sun’s ultra-violet rays.  UV radiation damages collagen and elastin, creates free radical damage, and causes skin inflammation, .  This extract contains substances that decrease the symptoms of chronic inflammation and protect the skin from sun damage, ozone, smog, pollution, and damaging free radicals.  Consequently, it is an ideal ingredient for use in anti-aging and wrinkle creams.  It is quickly absorbed by the skin and retained for as long as 72 hours while it neutralizes free radicals and prevents oxidation.

As is the case with any active anti-aging ingredient, the concentration of Pycnogenol in skin care products must be sufficient enough to be effective.  Token amounts that are there simply so manufacturers can claim its presence in the product just won’t do it.  Very few products contain Pycnogenol because it is expensive.  Although no specific levels for Pycnogenol in topical applications have been determined, the most common amount used in skin serums and creams is typically 0.1 to 0.2%.  The easiest way to determine if a product contains enough of it is to look at its color.  This antioxidant is brown in color.  Any product that lists it as an ingredient and is not brown has an insignificant concentration of it.  Its name should also be listed near the top of the ingredients printed on the package.  

Regular use of topically applied Pycnogenol can fight wrinkles, deter the signs of aging, and give your skin a younger, more refined appearance. 

derma e Pycnogenol Gel

derma e Pycnogenol Gel

For those who need a little less moisture, but a lot of comfort, derma ® Pycnogenol Gel is the choice for you. With a balanced formula of vitamins and nutrients for stressed skin, it will transform red to ravishing in no time.


derma e Hyaluronic and Pycnogenol Eye Cream

derma e Hyaluronic and Pycnogenol Eye Cream

Contrary to popular belief, you can hold onto those bright, beautiful eyes. derma ® Hyaluronic and Pycnogenol Eye Cream gently boosts the skin's moisture content with comforting oils and extracts designed to invigorate and promote more youthful skin around the eyes.