Cosmeceuticals featuring natural ingredients have become big sellers in natural products markets and department stores alike. Understanding which therapeutic compounds are the most sought after is the key to this growing market. Cosmeceutical ingredients are most often used in products for anti-aging purposes. Leading the way are antioxidants, which protect against the formation of free radicals produced by exposure to UV light, environmental pollutants and an unhealthy lifestyle.
Free radicals play a major role in aging.
One of the most widely used antioxidants in skin care products is vitamin C, though ingredients such as green tea and coenzyme Q10 are gaining popularity. Botanical skin-lightening ingredients for age spots is another growing trend in cosmeceuticals. Kojic dipalmitate biosynthesized from mushrooms, licorice extract, bearberry extract and mulberry extract have all had promising results in reducing hyperpigmentation without side effects. While there is great interest in creating innovative cosmeceuticals on the part of manufacturers, the real focus is on finding ingredients that are compatible with existing formulations. Color is an especially important concern.