Mixed carotenoids for skin tanning

A new study reveals that the high consumption of dietary carotenoids increases skin yellowness (similar to skin tanning effect) and fasting plasma carotenoid concentrations.

In this study conducted by dietetic professionals in Australia, 30 women were recruited and randomised to receive seven daily servings of either high-carotenoid-containing or low-carotenoid containing fruits or vegetables for 4 weeks, followed by a 2-week washout period.

Skin colour was measured by spectrophotometer, blood samples were collected for plasma carotenoid analysis, self-reported fruits and vegetables intake, quality of life, height and weight measurements were obtained at the beginning and the end of the intervention.

Compared with the low-carotenoid group, the high-carotenoid group demonstrated significantly higher plasma carotenoids (alpha-carotene, beta-carotene and lutein) and significant increase in skin yellowness in both sun-exposed and unexposed skin areas with no changes in skin lightness or redness. Additionally, plasma alpha carotene and beta carotene are also correlated with skin yellowness.

'According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Rather than risking oneself under direct sunlight for skin tanning, a high consumption of carotenoid-rich fruits and vegetables could tan one’s skin naturally, as shown in this study (increase in skin yellowness). In fact, carotenoids are potent antioxidants; the long-term intake of carotenoid-rich fruits not only helps to promote healthier and more attractive skin, but also ameliorates age-related diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), supports healthy blood glucose level, increases telomere length and bone density as shown in recent cohort studies,' says CheeYen Lau, Nutritionist at ExcelVite.

'EVTene is a natural mixed carotenoid complex concentrated from oil palm fruit. It contains high concentration of alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, which helps in skin tanning and a small amount of other carotenoids (such as gamma-carotene, lycopene). EVTene is also the only true natural mixed carotenoid complex with the highest level of alpha-carotene in the market. As summer is coming, formulators or manufacturers can formulate EVTene into a skin beauty inside out formula – as a natural skin tanning product, which could also help to protect the skin from UV damage and sunburn,' added Lau.