Beta-Carotene

Carotenoids are natural plant pigments that give plants and fruits their colour. Beta-Carotene is a carotenoid found primarily in carrots and provides a yellow to orange-red colour to personal care products. In addition, it is an approved colouring agent for foods. Besides carrots, it naturally occurs in vegetables (sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and squash), fruits (apricots, cantaloupe melon, mango, paw, nectarines, and peaches).

Chemically, carotenoids are tetraterpenoids and constitute a class of labile, easily oxidizable, and oil-soluble compounds consisting of 40-carbon polyunsaturated hydrocarbon molecules. The body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A using a carotenoid oxygenase enzyme (Beta-carotene 15,15′-dioxygenase), providing effects similar to retinoids. Unfortunately, that enzyme is only active in the intestine and liver, and produced retinal can only reach the skin from the bloodstream.

Beta-carotene is recommended in skincare products where it can be used to condition rough or reddened skin. Because of its Beta-Carotene content, the extract may be added to sun care or tanning preparations. In addition, a European report claims that carotenes appear to exhibit specific properties, which may help screen against the effects of UV radiation and free radicals. With vitamin E and C, it forms the trio of antioxidant vitamins frequently used together for a preventive effect on skin disorders, unhealthy conditions, or even cancer. This ingredient also may be used in baby products, night or day creams, and treatment oils that help maintain the skin’s healthy function.