Alpha Lipoic Acid for Skin Health – Cream for Wrinkles, Lightening & More

The benefits of alpha lipoic acid for skin health may include improved elasticity, skin lightening, reduced discoloration, decreased signs of aging and protection from damage caused by the sun (photoaging).

Alpha lipoic acid, or ALA, is a fatty acid that the body produces naturally in small amounts. ALA is also obtained from dietary sources, such as red meat, spinach, organ meat, broccoli and yeast.

Alpha lipoic acid acts as an antioxidant that helps reduce the amount of damage to cells caused by harmful molecules known as free radicals. [1]

This compound helps increase the amount of vitamin C and vitamin E in the body, which promote collagen production. ALA also helps decrease inflammation caused by free radicals, which might lead to healthier-looking skin.

Alpha lipoic acid’s effects on reducing free radical damage and promoting collagen production have led to its use in skin care products. This compound is used in skin creams, serums and lotions intended to address wrinkles, acne, skin lightening and other skin problems.

Alpha Lipoic Acid

Anti-Oxidant Supplement

Anti- Oxidant

Blood Sugar

Anti- Aging

How It Works:

• Neutralizes free radicals & oxidative damage
• Regulate blood glucoses levels
• Supports mitochondrial energy metabolism

Dosage:

Between 300 - 1,200 mg per day

Safety:

Generally Well Tolerated

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Benefits of Alpha Lipoic Acid for Skin

ALA is sometimes referred to as “the universal antioxidant” because it is 400 times more potent than vitamins C or E and because it is both fat and water soluble.

This nutrient is involved in energy production in the mitochondria of cells.

It also helps support healthy skin by reducing inflammation, preventing UV damage from the sun and stimulating collagen production.

It has been studied for its effectiveness in a number of skin problems, such as wrinkles, acne and the effects of aging.

Alpha lipoic acid has the ability to lower oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress is associated with the premature aging of skin..

Alpha lipoic acid might also help reduce inflammation in skin cells, which might help manage acne and other skin conditions that are caused by inflammation.

The ability to support collagen production might also help skin heal from damage caused by inflammation by ensuring the growth of new and healthy skin cells to replace damaged cells.

A 2010 study published in Collegum Antropologicum showed that alpha lipoic acid has anti-aging effects on skin due to its antioxidant properties. [2]

A 2005 study published in the Journal of International Medical Research showed that skin quality overall improved in patients with aging effects with the use of a product containing alpha-lipoic acid, pine bark extract and vitamins and minerals. [3]

More research is needed to determine the efficacy of alpha lipoic acid for acne, wrinkles, skin lightening and other skin problems.

How to Use Topical Applications of Alpha Lipoic Acid

Alpha lipoic acid is available in several forms for topical use, including creams, lotions, serums and moisturizers.

While some of these products only have alpha lipoic acid, others contain other ingredients that promote healthy skin, such as CoQ10 and hyaluronic acid.

Consumers who want to use alpha lipoic acid creams for acne or other skin issues can find these products on Amazon, Vitamin Shoppe and other online retailers. These products can also be found in stores that sell skin care products and supplements.

Topical products with alpha lipoic acid should always be used as directed to lower the risk of adverse effects. Those who have underlying medical conditions or serious skin problems should consult their doctor before using any products that contain this ingredient.

The amount of ALA recommended for skin lightening, wrinkles or other skin problems varies by product. Consumers should not use these products more often than recommended by the manufacturers or use larger amounts than the directions state.

A large percentage of consumers who use alpha lipoic acid for wrinkles, oily skin and other minor skin issues reported that these products were effective at correcting skin problems and promoting healthier skin.

A small percentage of those who use these products indicated that they did not produce any results for skin problems.

Side Effects of Alpha Lipoic Acid

Skin care products that contain ALA are generally considered safe to use for most individuals. Mild side effects might occur in some individuals, such as skin rash or hives.

The effects of alpha lipoic acid on pregnant women and women are lactating are not known. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, studies on the effects of this supplement in pregnant women and nursing women have not been done, so the use of these products is not recommended. [1]

Alpha lipoic acid supplements taken orally have the potential to interact with certain types of medications, including drugs for diabetes, chemotherapy and thyroid problems. Those who take these medications should not use products containing ALA without talking to their doctor.

This natural fatty acid might decrease the effects of thyroid hormones and chemotherapy drugs and result in dangerously low blood sugar levels in those who take diabetes medications, according to the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. [4]

Consumers who use skin care products that contain this ingredient should discontinue use if side effects, such as a rash or hives, occur. Those who do experience temporary side effects should talk to their doctor about the safety of using alpha lipoic acid for skin care before resuming the use of these products.

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