Pycnogenol is one plant ingredient that is gaining popularity for its skin benefits, among other things. According to dermatologists, pycnogenol is the best ingredient to consider in preventing fine lines, wrinkles, and signs of aging.
Fine lines and skin aging are inevitable courses of skin growth that come with age. They might be a cause of worry to some people as they might disrupt the ever-young and refreshing look.
Pycnogenol is an easy way to prevent fine lines and aging if it is used properly and not mixed with the wrong ingredients. Read on to learn how to use this supplement for the best results.
Read more:
- 10 Tips On How To Remove Bandage Adhesive From Skin
- 15 Best Treatment Methods For Penis Peeling and Its Causes
- How Does Humidity Affect Your Skin A-Z
- What is Clammy Skin? Causes, and Treatment Methods In 2022
- What Are Hymenal Skin Tags? Can They Be Removed?
- Tattoo on Old Saggy Skin: 15 Factors To Consider
- What is Ivory Skin Tone? 15 ways to manage Ivory Skin Tone
What Is Pycnogenol compound?
Pycnogenol is the popular name for the extract obtained from the bark of French maritime pine trees, specifically, Pinus pinaster. This extract has plenty of antioxidant properties, collagen, and elastin in it.
These constituents of pycnogenol give it its skin benefits that had been tested scientifically. In a study performed in 2012, 20 post-menopausal women were told to apply 75mg of pycnogenol daily for 12 weeks. The results of the study showed increased skin elasticity and hydration.
Also, there was increased production of hyaluronic acid in the skin. Together, these reactions reduced fine lines and signs of aging. They also improved the complexion of the subjects.
This compound is the most effective of its kind as it contains 70% of procyanidins and a group of flavonoid molecules.
Skin Benefits Of Pycnogenol
Due to the nature of its constituents, pine bark extract, pycnogenol, has a lot of health benefits. It can be used in releasing symptoms of ADHD in children, especially hyperactivity and oxidative stress.
The compound could also be used to treat metabolic syndrome, neuroprotective effect, and to improve heart health. Amongst these benefits, pycnogenol also has a bunch of skin benefits. Some of these include;
●Prevents fine lines and wrinkles
Pycnogenol is known for its good work in treating and preventing fine lines and wrinkles. This compound improves the synthesis of extracellular matrix molecules like hyaluronic acid and collagen.
Improved synthesis of these constituents improves the elasticity and hydration of the skin. By doing this, the compound prevents fine lines and treats them as if they are already formed.
● Help wound healing
Pycnogenol has photoprotective, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties that make it able to hasten the wound healing process. This compound can also be used to reduce the size of scars.
In a research study done in 2014, a 2% concentrated pycnogenol solution was applied to a wound. The result showed that the healing time was reduced by 3 days. When a 5% concentrated pycnogenol solution was applied, there was a faster result than the former.
● Prevents skin aging
Another common skin benefit of pycnogenol is that it prevents aging skin. To do this, the extract reduces the production of free radicals by skin cells. Free radicals cause various skin conditions including aging.
Pycnogenol also prevents skin aging by improving skin cell regeneration and replication. Improving cell turnover is important in preventing skin aging as it steadily assures new and fresh skin cells.
● Healthy and plumpy skin
Plumpy skin has balanced moisture, collagen, and sebum levels. Pycnogenol achieves this by improving the production of hyaluronic acid, elastin, and collagen within the skin.
According to the results from a 2012 study, pycnogenol reduces wrinkles and improves the production of the skin’s major components to give it a youthful, plump, supple, and firm look.
Read More
- 15 Major Causes and Remedies of Sallow Skin
- What Causes Translucent Skin? Latest Treatment & Solutions
- Skin Tag on the Tongue: 10 Causes and Treatments
- Do Girls Shed their Skin During their Period?
How To Use Pycnogenol For Healthy Skin
Pycnogenol could be used in three different ways to get one result -healthy and youthful skin. However, this compound would not yield the expected results unless it is used properly. Here are the proper ways of using pycnogenol.
#1 As a supplement
Pycnogenol could be taken orally as a supplement. According to the dosage given by the National Institute of Health, adults could take from 40-450 milligrams of pycnogenol, as prescribed by their doctors.
This dosage is not the same for children. The dosage of pycnogenol for children, or if the child could take it at all, depends on some factors. Therefore, pycnogenol should only be administered to children by a medical practitioner.
#2 As skin powder
You could also use pycnogenol as a skin powder on your face. Here are steps on how to apply pycnogenol skin powder on your face;
- Mix a certain amount of the powder with some water. Whisk the mixture until the paste gives a smooth texture.
- Gently apply the mixture to all parts of your skin, avoiding sensitive areas. Leave the paste on your face for 15-20 minutes when it is completely dry.
- Wash off the dried paste from your face with lukewarm water.
- Pat your face with a soft towel and apply a face lotion or cream on your skin.
#3 As a cream
You could also use the pycnogenol as part of your morning routine. After applying your face serum, gently rub the cream on all parts of your face before you apply other facial lotions and oil.
Are There Side Effects Of Pycnogenol?
Side effects from pycnogenol could happen when you start with a high dosage. It would be most effective if you start with a low dosage and climb up the ladder. This would support your body in getting accustomed to the supplement.
Some possible side effects of pycnogenol include;
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Skin irritation
- Urinary related issues
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Mouth ulcers
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Vertigo
- Lower blood sugar levels
If you notice any of these signs, stop taking the supplement. Kindly visit your doctor quickly to manage the present situation and prevent serious complications.
What Precautions Should Be Taken While Using Pycnogenol?
First of all, not everyone is permitted to use pycnogenol. The following people should seek a doctor’s counsel before taking this supplement;
- Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
- People with autoimmune disorders
- People with bleeding conditions
- Diabetic patients
- People scheduled for surgery within two weeks or less
- People with a heart condition
- People with liver issues
Pycnogenol should not be taken by any means if you are on some medications. The supplement would react negatively with the medication and would yield unexpected results. Some of these medications include;
- Immunosuppressants
- Drugs for Chemotherapy
- Herbs, medications, and supplements affect blood and clotting.
- Medications for diabetes
Also, pycnogenol should not be used with products that contain copper peptides as they might cause negative reactions. Pycnogenol can be used with products that contain Vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and Ginkgo Biloba.
Read more:
- Cigarette burns on Skin : 10 Best Solutions and Treatments
- 15 Best Treatment Methods For Penis Peeling and Its Causes
- Summary
Pycnogenol is a powerful antioxidant that is obtained from the bark of French maritime pine trees. It can be used to treat fine lines, wrinkles, and aging effects on the skin.
This supplement should be used according to the doctor’s prescription to prevent unwarranted health issues.
