Their effect is enhanced by borage and primrose oil, which both contain chemicals that revitalise the skin. Primrose oil has also been shown to alleviate pre-menstrual and menopausal symptoms. Matilde Thomas is managing director of OPC manufacturers Caudalie Laboratoires in Paris. The fusion of polyphenols and oils helps to balance out skin deficiencies linked to hormonal changes and protects against the sun, pollution and smoking. Doctors sceptical Powys GP Dr John Buchan, a member of the Primary Care Dermatology Society, warned that there was little scientific proof that antioxidants did reverse the impact of ageing.
Antioxidants are of dubious benefit.
The ageing process is a cumulative process, determined solely by the amount of exposure to the sun. The OPC capsules cost 25 for a month's supply. They are available from Harrods, Space NK, and through mail order by calling 01202 890339. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites.