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Lutein

Lutein is one of two major carotenoids found in the human eye (macula and retina). It is thought to function as a light filter, protecting the eye tissues from sunlight damage. Foods rich in lutein include egg yolks, spinach, kale, corn, orange pepper, kiwi fruit, grapes, zucchini, and squash.

Lutein

Lutein is one of the carotenoids, an anti-aging ingredient, powerful free-radicle quenching antioxidant found in plants, fruits, and leafy green vegetables (spinach, peas, cabbage, peppers, oranges, kiwi, and grapes). It belongs to the oxygen-containing carotenoids, which are called xanthophylls. Unlike β-carotene, lutein is a non-provitamin A carotenoid. Lutein is easily recognized in nature due to its yellow and orange-red colors.

The primary function of this fat-soluble pigment in the human body is to maintain sharp, healthy eyesight located in the area of the retina called the macula, the center for sharp and focused vision.

Lutein stimulates the skin’s renewal process; helps fight the damaging effects of sunlight, pollution, stress, and other aging factors. The primary function of lutein in the skin revealed by research is its capacity to serve as an antioxidant. In addition, it protects against damaging reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS arise from normal reactions in the body and the environment, for example, cigarette smoke and air pollutants.

In addition to these quenching capacities, lutein can absorb harmful blue light. Blue light possesses the highest energy level of the visible spectrum, and this energy has the potential to cause damage to the skin.