Evidence supporting the use of: Proanthocyanidin
For the health condition: Skin Care (general)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Proanthocyanidins, a class of polyphenolic compounds found in foods such as grapes, berries, and cocoa, have garnered scientific interest for their potential benefits in skin care. Several in vitro and animal studies, as well as a number of clinical trials, suggest that proanthocyanidins possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and photoprotective properties. These mechanisms are thought to help protect the skin from oxidative stress, UV-induced damage, and premature aging. For example, grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) has been shown in some clinical studies to improve skin elasticity, reduce hyperpigmentation, and enhance overall skin appearance, likely due to its capacity to scavenge free radicals and inhibit matrix metalloproteinases that degrade collagen.
Despite these promising findings, the evidence remains moderate. Most studies involve relatively small sample sizes, short durations, or are conducted in vitro or in animal models rather than large, rigorous human trials. However, the consistent antioxidant findings across studies provide a rational scientific basis for the use of proanthocyanidins in skin care products and dietary supplements aimed at general skin health. More large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy and determine optimal dosing. In summary, while traditional use exists, scientific evidence underpins the rationale for proanthocyanidins in supporting general skin care, with an evidence strength of 3 out of 5.
Other ingredients used for Skin Care (general)
aloe veraanthocyanins
apple
apricot
astaxanthin
beeswax
beet
beta-carotene
black currant
radish
sesame
bovine gelatin
catalase
colostrum
cryptoxanthin
cucumber
d-alpha tocopherol
dog rose
heartwood
hyaluronic acid
l-cysteine
l-glutathione
l-histidine
linoleic acid (LA)
lovage
lychee
magnesium
mango
mixed carotenoids
oat
omega-3 fatty acids
pumpkin
redcurrant
silicon
keratin
spinach
starch
tomato
almond fruit
Urolithin A
vitamin A
vitamin C
vitamin E
watercress
watermelon
zinc
sarsaparilla
red clover
chickweed
oryza
root tuber
birch
dulse leaf
camphor oil
goji berry
amaranth
sea salt
3,3'-dihydroxy-B-carotene-4,4'-dione
Alpha-terpineol
Azelaic acid
Arbutin
Avocado
Anserina
Ascophyllum nodosum
Alpha Hydroxy Acids
Asam gelugor
Allantoin
anthocyanidins
Algal protein
Argan nut oil
Abalone
Behenic Acid
Biopeptide
Black spruce
beta-zeacarotene
Brassica
Bisabolene
Butternut
Borage
Bottle gourd
Bird's nest
California chia
Chervil
Carnosine
Candelilla wax
Cocoa Butter
Cereal grass
Citral
Castile Soap
Copaiba Oil
Currant
Dunaliella salina
David's Milkberry
Dulse
Egg
Emu Oil
Himalayan Salt
Oak
Orchid
Rose
Snakeroot (unspecified)
Silk protein
Other health conditions supported by Proanthocyanidin
Cancer (prevention)Cardiovascular Disease
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy
Edema
Free Radical Damage
Gingivitis
Hypertension
Inflammation
Osteoporosis
Skin Care (general)
Triglycerides (high)
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Varicose Veins
Wounds and Sores
Wrinkles