Published on May 25th, 2009 | by Guest Contributor

Berries – Ingredients in Anti-Aging Skincare

UV Environmental stress and the natural aging process generate free radicals. These are unstable oxygen molecules that are short of an electron. Free radicals can be likened to molecular hammers that hack away at our skin cells until they are neutralized by an electron donor.

photo credit: mccun934

Berries are known to tackle damage by MMPs

Scientists have discovered a compound known as matrix metalloprotease (MMP), it plays a key role in the skin’s response to damage by free radicals. MMP’s set off a biological chain reaction called an enzyme cascade, the reaction speeds up the breakdown and elimination of collagen. Unless the activation of MMP’s can be stopped, collagen is broken down and eliminated faster than your skin can produce it. Wrinkles, fine lines and rough spot follow soon thereafter.

A recent study has found that ellagic acid, an antioxidant found in numerous fruits, vegetables and nuts, (especially raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and pomegranates) can protect the skin against UV damage by blocking the production of MMP in damaged skin cells and by reducing inflammation.

Consider toning your face with a homemade preparation of aloe vera and berry juice. You can use an assortment of berries or simply squeeze the juice of one of the berries listed above, and mix with a teaspoon of aloe vera gel. Alternatively, look for a readymade product that includes berries in its ingredient list.

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Tags: anti-aging, berries, collagen, ellagic acid, MMP, skincare, UV

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