Q: I’ve seen Pycnogenol® on the labels of some natural skincare products. What is it, and how can it help my skin?
Dr. Linda Miles D.O.M. responds:
Pycnogenol® is a very special skin care ingredient. In fact, many experts put Pycnogenol® in a class all by itself. It contains an amazing combination of over forty antioxidants, and it is one of the most powerful yet gentle anti-aging compounds ever discovered.
Sensitive Skin Solution
More and more people with sensitive skin soon discover how hard it is to find gentle yet effective anti-aging skincare. Many anti-aging products can include aggressive skin-resurfacing ingredients that may be too harsh for delicate skin types. That’s where Pycnogenol® comes in – this super-natural ingredient has the ability to restore aging skin’s healthy, youthful vibrancy with revolutionary gentleness.
Pycnogenol® (Pinus Pinaster) comes from the bark of maritime pine trees in France. While the name of this ingredient may be tough to pronounce, it is anything but tough when caring for sensitive skin. It is one of the most soothing, anti-aging ingredients available. Even Dr. Oz has touted Pycnogenol® for promoting younger-looking skin.
Antioxidant Anti-Aging Power
Pycnogenol® has been shown to be 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E and 20 times more effective than Vitamin C in neutralizing the harmful free radicals that damage the skin. Pycnogenol® can enhance the benefits of Vitamin C and extend the life of Vitamin E. By providing multiple antioxidant functions, Pycnogenol® helps fight environmental damage and helps reduce visible signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.
Reduce Redness, Swelling and Puffiness
In addition to being an anti-aging powerhouse, Pycnogenol® has the ability to calm, comfort and reduce redness – a winning combination for sensitive skin. It works by protecting and stabilizing the capillary system, binding to collagen fibers that line capillary walls. This action helps build skin’s resistance to irritation, helps improve microcirculation and helps reduce puffiness associated with leaky capillaries. Studies have shown that topical application of Pycnogenol® significantly reduces swelling and redness caused by UV exposure and chemical irritants.
Soothing Skin Care with Pycnogenol®
Using derma e® Soothing Cleanser, Soothing Toner, Soothing Redness Reducing Serum, Soothing Oil-Free Moisturizer, Soothing Moisturizing Crème and Soothing Eye Gel can help rejuvenate sensitive skin and slow down skin’s aging process. Fortified with nourishing vitamins and botanicals, these gentle, fragrance-free formulas visibly diminish the look of fine lines and wrinkles while soothing red, irritated or sensitive skin.
Now, no matter how sensitive your skin is, you can feel at ease knowing that you, too, can enjoy the look of younger, healthier, more vibrant skin!