You’ve probably seen acai in colorful (and delicious) bowls, but they’re not just superfoods for our body, they’re superfoods for our skin as well.
Acai extract (Euterpe Oleracea Fruit Extract) is derived from acai berry pulp and contains a lovely blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and essential fatty acids. These components offer a wealth of benefits for the skin. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
The Science Behind Acai Extract for Skin
Anthocyanins
These flavonoids help fight free radicals and protect skin cells from oxidative damage and premature aging. They also give acai their vibrant colors.
Vitamin E
This emollient antioxidant is found naturally in our skin and not only protects against UVB damage, but also pairs wonderfully with Vitamin C to provide photoprotection.
Ferulic Acid
Another antioxidant that’s commonly paired with Vitamin C + E to boost their efficacy and stability. On its own it also has some great photoprotective properties.
Vitamin C
We all know what a superstar ingredient Vitamin C is, not only is it an incredibly powerful antioxidant, it can help brighten the skin and boost collagen production!
Vitamin A
Better known as retinol, it’s a powerful anti-aging ingredient that helps promote collagen production, maintain skin elasticity, and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
Essential Fatty Acids
These fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6, strengthen the skin barrier, improve hydration, and promote overall skin health.
Acai Extract’s Benefits for Skin
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Given the high antioxidant content of Acai extract, it’s excellent for helping our skin combat free radical damage from environmental stressors. One in vitro study actually showed that acai has higher antioxidant content than cranberry, blackberry, raspberry, strawberry, or blueberry!
Brightening and Soothing
Thanks to its vitamin c content, acai extract can help reduce hyperpigmentation and promote a brighter, even-toned complexion. It also delivers anti-inflammatory benefits that can help soothe the skin.
Anti-aging Potentials
Both Vitamin A + C offer collagen production benefits, and acai extract’s antioxidant properties can proactively prevent premature aging and photodamage from free radicals.
Jenny’s thoughts: If you prefer plant-based extracts, acai is one of the good ones. But keep in mind despite the seemingly great components found within, you’re going to see better results if those ingredients are listed individually (ideally at an effective %).
Sources:
- Leslie Baumann, MD, Cosmetic Dermatology, 2nd edition, Vitamin E – pages 293-294
- Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, June 2010, pages 72-81
- Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, Volume 79 (3) – Mar 1, 1999, Ferulic and caffeic acids as potential protective agents against photooxidative skin damage
- Jennings, Kerri-Ann. “5 Impressive Health Benefits of Acai Berries.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 31 May 2017, www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-acai-berries.
