Xantohumol has all the predispositions to become the hero of the cosmetology of our times. Scientists all around the world are interested in this substance. We also had the opportunity to look closely at it and learn about its exceptional properties. Without hesitation, we have been waiting for such a revolution. It is a gift of nature that we must learn to use!

A natural opponent of free radicals

Anyone who follows the information on cosmetics, even to a small extent, knows how vital the antioxidant properties of various substances are. We already have access to many products on the market that boast such an effect. Why is xanthohumol different? The impact of this substance is stronger, and its source is nature itself. Let's start by explaining why antioxidant is so essential.

What are free radicals?

Ubiquitous free radicals, which we read about in almost every article on antioxidants, is a term used to describe reactive oxygen species. Thus, these molecules have defective electrons and easily bond with other structures. It's a bit like they're looking for a pair, mate with it, and cause damage. Their action has a negative effect on the human body. One of the adverse effects of free radicals is the acceleration of skin aging processes.

Where do free radicals come from in the body?

The free radicals discussed here are natural products of various chemical reactions occurring in living organisms. Free radicals, which are problematic for humans, are most often simply related to breathing.

Of course, there are other reactions that cause the number of free radicals to increase in the body. Man himself leads to an increase in their concentration, e.g., by smoking cigarettes. The number of free radicals also increases in people exposed to high stress and insomnia. An unhealthy diet, including alcohol consumption, is also of great importance. Environmental pollution, which each of us comes into contact with practically every day, is also harmful.

How do free radicals affect human skin?

Although free radicals are an indispensable element of the functioning of the human body and they have several tasks to perform, their excess is dangerous for humans. They are what lead to oxidative stress. By oxidative stress, we mean a state of imbalance - the entire homeostasis is disturbed, and thus the body is more susceptible to diseases and aging. The skin itself is a specific element in all this because it is exposed to various external factors. As if that wasn't enough, the excess of free radicals additionally leads to:

• Reducing the number of cells responsible for the production of elastin and collagen (the skin loses its firmness and elasticity).
• Oxidation of epidermal lipids.
• Disturbing the activity of melanocytes (the skin is then less able to protect against UV).
• General weakening of the skin's immune system.

In summary, excess free radicals result in weakened skin, which loses its firmness and ability to protect against UV rays, bacteria, viruses, and other harmful external factors.

The invaluable role of antioxidants - Xanthohumol in action

The human body is amazing - it fights with all its strength to maintain balance and function as best as possible. One of its abilities is the production of endogenous antioxidants. These are antioxidants such as melatonin or coenzyme Q10. They play a significant role in fighting free radicals, but it is not enough to deal comprehensively with the excess of these molecules. That is why it is necessary to provide the body with exogenous antioxidants.

Antioxidants are substances that have the ability to neutralize excess free radicals. In this way, they prevent damage to skin cells. Therefore, they should be supplied to the body through a proper diet and skin care. In food, antioxidants provided from the inside inhibit the harmful effects of free radicals. On the other hand, antioxidants in cosmetics improve the skin's condition, moisturize it, strengthen the hydrolipid coat, and improve skin firmness and elasticity.

The most popular known antioxidants are, of course, vitamins C, A, and E. The latter is most often called the vitamin of youth. Valuable antioxidants known to man are also flavonoids, lutein, and zinc.

Xanthohumol as an antioxidant

Extensive research on xanthohumol has also included its antioxidant properties. The obtained results are very promising and indicate the fantastic properties of this substance.

The first important conclusion from research on xanthohumol is the confirmation of the active neutralization of free radicals. Thus, we have access to another substance that can counteract the skin's aging process. Significantly, numerous studies have compared the effects of xanthohumol with Trolox (vitamin E derivative) and with vitamin E itself. The results showed that xanthohumol is nine times stronger than Trolox in the fight against hydroxyl radicals and three times stronger in the case of peroxide radicals. Other studies have also indicated that xanthohumol has a higher ability to quench singlet oxygen than vitamin E.

What is the significance of the presented research results? Among the numerous properties of xanthohumol, antioxidation is one of the strongest. The most important, however, is the fact that the tested substance turned out to be several times more effective than the most effective ingredients known so far! It seems that the vitamin of youth will soon have to give up its crown to the new king among antioxidants.

Xanthohumol in the fight against acne

Counteracting skin aging processes is a significant advantage, but xanthohumol hides more surprises. One of them is a strong antibacterial effect. A perfect example is research on the impact of hop extracts on acne vulgaris.

Acne vulgaris is a disease associated mainly with adolescence. However, it is known that this problem can affect people of all ages. Research conducted on the properties of xanthohumol confirmed that it has a strong inhibitory effect on the five strains of bacteria that most often affect the formation of acne. In addition, it has also been observed that xanthohumol exhibits antibacterial activity against those types of staphylococcus that are methicillin-resistant. In other words, it also counteracts bacteria that antibiotics usually can't deal with.

Previous research shows that xanthohumol is the ingredient modern cosmetology has been waiting for. The solution to numerous problems - from the aging process and acne to maintaining the perfect skin condition - has been lying right in front of our noses for centuries. The amazing substance that is xanthohumol is the ideal combination of striving for beauty and health.