Effects of Cocoa Flavanol on Skin Aging

Effects of 24-week Cocoa Flavanol Supplementation on Photo-aged Facial Skin

Photoaging is caused by the superposition of chronic ultraviolet (UV)-induced damage on the intrinsic aging process, and accounts for the majority of age-associated changes in skin appearance. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) likely contribute to this process. Strategies utilizing endogenous skin antioxidants as well as plant-derived or synthetic compounds have been examined.

Cocoa beans fresh from the tree are exceptionally rich in polyphenols, such as flavanol, and have a higher antioxidant capacity. The present study is designed to investigate the effects of long-term intake of a product rich in cocoa flavanols on facial wrinkles, hydration, elasticity and photosensitivity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Healthy females aged ≥ 40 years
• Facial wrinkle grade ≥ 2

Exclusion Criteria:

• received medical or cosmetic treatment that interferes with the general aging process at least 3 months before the study
• reported taking functional foods 1 month before the study
• history of acute or chronic disease such as severe liver or kidney disease or uncontrolled diabetes
• history of allergies against any component of trial foods
• any visible skin disease that might be confused with a skin reaction to the test procedure