Alpha Lipoic Acid
One of the most powerful antioxidants currently known, alpha lipoic acid specifically stops cross-linking, which can cause aging by hardening arteries, wrinkling skin, and stiffening joints. Because of this link, among others, the number of products using alpha lipoic acid(otherwise known as ALA) is growing exponentially.
It is commonly found in foods, and has demonstrated its effectiveness in treating a number of skin conditions such as diabetes and arterial sclerosis among others, which is partly why researcher Dr Perricone focuses much of his research upon this one element and uses it in his own skin care products. Just incase you boycott Oprah or otherwise haven’t heard of Dr Perricone, he is a Yale dermatologist who has recently achieved fame with his introduction of the “top 10 superfoods” known to not only support weight loss, but skin health and otherwise general care.
Though all antioxidants are valuable to our bodies to fight free radicals and therefore prevent damage to our liver, skin, and other valuable organs, it sets itself apart in the fact that it is both fat and water soluble. This means that, unlike other antioxidants, it can work in every part of our body. Vitamin A on the other hand is specifically fat soluble, and Vitamin C is specifically water soluble.
Our bodies do produce a certain level of alpha lipoic acid. However that level decreases with age along with other important elements that keep our skin in optimum shape. The levels produced while we are young are also minimal. So to contribute to skin care, it is important to supplement alpha lipoic acid throughout our lives.
1. Alpha Lipoic Acid Skin Care: What Is All The Fuss About? http://www.smartskincare.com/treatments/topical/lipoic.html
2. Prescott, Rebecca. Anti Aging Supplements-Fight Wrinkles From Within. http://www.buzzle.com/editorials/6-21-2006-100024.asp