Alpha-lipoic acid
Found in every cell of the body, alpha-lipoic acid is vital for overall health. However, the body only produces alpha-lipoic acid in small amounts, so it’s important that we supplement our natural supply via our diet (vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and brussels sprouts contain outstanding amounts) and also topically through our skincare products. It’s fastly becoming one of my favourite ingredients, especially where serums and eye care are concerned.
How does alpha lipoic acid benefit the skin?
Due to its impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory profile, alpha-lipoic acid has considerable benefits when it comes to ageing. This little-known ingredient can help to form a line of defense against environmental stressors such as pollution and UV damage that lead to signs of premature ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and uneven texture and tone.
How can I incorporate alpha-lipoic acid into my regime?
You can find alpha-lipoic acid most commonly in serums and eye treatments. With much thinner skin than the rest of the face and no oil-producing sebaceous glands, the eye area in particular is very delicate and greatly benefits from the antioxidant capacities of alpha-lipoic acid. While generally tolerated well by all skin types including sensitive skin, higher concentrations (5% and up) can cause slight irritation and also make the skin more susceptible to sunburn, so should be followed with a broad spectrum of at least SPF 30+ or, alternatively, used at night.
