A new study from the January 2015
issue of Experimental Dermatology found that a licorice extract could protect
the skin from harmful UV irradiation.
According to a researcher involved in a study from Germany, Gitta
Neufang, Licochalcone A, a root extract of the plat Glycyrrhiza inflata, could
protect the skin from damaging environmental stressor such and UV radiation and
chemicals. This works from within the
skin by strengthening the skin’s own defense systems, and providing a
protective shield from sun exposure, working better than sunscreen. Neufang and his colleagues tested the effects
of this extract by isolating human skin cells and exposing them to solar
simulated light, imitating real sun exposure.
The results showed the treated cells with Licochalcone A detected
slightly less harmful radicals, and were able to produce a higher amount of
“self-protecting” antioxidant molecules.
It can be concluded that the skins own defense system can be stimulated
by the application of licorice extract.
The extract could possibly provide better sun protection due to the
offered physical and biological protectors.
With these results, the researchers hope to improve the effectiveness of
sunscreens and decrease the harmful affects of sun exposure.
Original Article: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150218191909.htm
Additional: http://www.healthyanswers.com/skin-health/2015/03/natural-extract-gives-sunscreen-protection-to-your-skin/
If this method of skincare were to be successful, I think we would see great changes in skincare as well as numbers of those suffering from skin cancer. I know a lot of people, myself included, don't use sunscreen regularly because of it's inconvenient nature and uncomfortable feeling. I personally don't get sun burnt, and thus usually don't even think to use standard sunscreens. Because this new, more natural, product actually alters the skins own self-protective abilities, this sunscreen would certainly be more convenient, healthier, and potentially more frequently used. If we can find a way to alter out skin cells to protect themselves, no doubt people would get behind it, and - even better - find themselves facing a lot fewer issues in skin health, such as cancer due to sun exposure. This definitely should be more heavily researched.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting read! Who knew something as simple as licorice extract could protect our skin from UV radiation? I find it fascinating that the licorice extract strengthens the skin's defense systems and provides better protection than regular sunscreen. I think it would be great if scientists could effectively integrate the licorice extract into regular sunscreens to increase their protective ability.
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