With the gradual depletion of the ozone layer, there has been growing concerns about the level of ultraviolet radiation that reaches the earth and the increase in the incidence of sun-related diseases such as hyperpigmentation, photoaging and skin cancer. UV has many detrimental effects on the skin: it can directly cause DNA damage, and it can create so-called "reactive oxygen species" (ROS) or "free radicals." ROS are high energy molecules that collide with proteins and lipids in the cell and cause direct cellular damage. This damage is responsible for the effects of UV on skin: premature aging and a wrinkled and worn appearance.
Luckily, nature has provided us with a natural defense against the ROS rogues - antioxidants.Antioxidants quench the reactive oxygen species (ROS), decrease sunburn response. Antioxidants result in significant reduction in the number of ultraviolet induced sunburn cells and DNA damage.
Polypodium Leucotomos extract (PLE), which is taken orally, is one such antioxidant.
PLE has been traditionally used in Central and South America for the treatment of different inflammatory skin disease. Studies done on PLE have shown it to possess a range of benefits that include reduction in hyperpigmentation, skin firming effect which helps to improve the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and slows down aging of the skin.
Patients who had taken PLE, demonstrated significantly less hyperpigmentation after 48 hours following UV exposure.
For all those sporting junkies out there, take an oral sun protectant like PLE in addition to topically applied sunscreen for fail-safe protection the harmful effects of UV.
Have fun in the sun!
