If you have considered using pycnogenol for your skin, it is important to understand if it is worth the hype. Here, we discuss the effectiveness of pycnogenol, its benefits, and how to use it. Keep reading.
What Are The Benefits Of Pycnogenol For Skin?
1. May Help Reverse Signs Of Premature Aging
In a study, 20 postmenopausal women were asked to consume 75 mg of pycnogenol every day for 12 weeks. The participants observed better skin hydration and elasticity by the end of the study period (1). Pycnogenol supplementation was found to reduce the signs of aging. Pycnogenol may also promote the synthesis of collagen and hyaluronic acid. Reduced collagen levels are known to cause wrinkles (2). Research suggests that hyaluronic acid can retain skin moisture and help delay the aging signs (3).
2. May Help Reduce Pigmentation
As per research, pycnogenol may help reduce skin hyperpigmentation caused by exposure to UV radiation (4). It works by fighting free radicals, which otherwise break down the proteins responsible for maintaining your skin’s hue and elasticity. Pycnogenol also enhances and accelerates the process of cell regeneration and replication (4). This compound is also believed to soften rough skin, soothe inflamed skin, and potentially reduce skin cancer risk. However, more research is warranted in this regard.
3. May Help Heal Wounds
An animal study showcased the wound-healing abilities of pycnogenol. The compound was found to accelerate wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars (5). However, more research is warranted to further understand the mechanism here. Apart from these benefits, pycnogenol may also pose some side effects one must be aware of.
What Are The Side Effects Of Pycnogenol On Skin?
Pycnogenol is generally considered safe for use on skin. That said, you must start with a low dose to allow your body to get accustomed to the supplement. The potential side effects of pycnogenol include:
Fatigue Vertigo Dizziness Headache Mouth ulcers Skin irritation Urinary issues Gastrointestinal issues Irritability Nausea Drowsiness
If you experience any of these side effects, stop the intake of the product and consult your doctor. No matter how many benefits a product has, one will not be able to see results unless they use it appropriately. Read the next section to understand the best way to use pycnogenol on your skin.
How Do You Use Pycnogenol On Your Skin?
Pycnogenol is an OTC (over-the-counter) product. It is available in the following forms:
1. Supplement
As per the guidelines set by the National Institute Of Health, adults can ingest anywhere between 50 to 450 milligrams of pycnogenol supplements daily to achieve the desired results (6). However, more research is warranted to determine a safe dosage level for children.
2. Cream
You can use pycnogenol cream as part of your morning routine after you apply your serum and before you apply any heavy lotions or oils. You can use this cream for 7 days at a stretch. But if you do not notice any results even after 7 days, we recommend you visit a dermatologist.
3. Skin Powder
You can include this powder in your morning skin care routine. Here’s how: Carry out this process every day for 6 weeks for the best results. If you do not experience any change even after 6 weeks, consult your dermatologist. Can pycnogenol be used by all? Who would benefit the most from it?
Who Is Pycnogenol Best Suited For?
While everyone can use pycnogenol, the extract is best suited for individuals with aged, pigmented, or dry skin. But if you have any specific skin condition, it is always better to consult a dermatologist before using pycnogenol. As discussed, you can use pycnogenol in various forms. The compound works well with certain ingredients too. Check them out in the next section.
What Ingredients Work Well With Pycnogenol?
Several ingredients can be paired with pycnogenol. These include:
Vitamin C: The ingredient enhances the body’s collagen production (7). It helps firm up the skin and reduces any wrinkles and fine lines. Ginkgo Biloba: This is a potent antioxidant thought to work with pycnogenol to soothe skin and increase skin moisture. However, more research is needed in this regard. Hyaluronic Acid: Hyaluronic acid is a humectant that helps retain skin moisture. It hydrates the outer skin layers and reduces dry skin, pigmentation, and other signs of aging (3).
You can pair several ingredients with pycnogenol. However, there are a few other ingredients you must never use with this compound. We have covered them in the next section.
What Ingredients Should Not Be Paired With Pycnogenol?
It is believed that using pycnogenol with products containing copper peptides may cause adverse effects. However, research is limited in this regard. Consult your dermatologist for more information.
Summing It Up
Can I mix pycnogenol with moisturizer? You can add 2-3 drops of pycnogenol to your moisturizer and apply it to your skin once or twice daily. However, it is worth using alone or mixing it with water-based serums, oils, or heavier creams to dramatically increase its antioxidant capacity. Can I use pycnogenol and retinol together? Yes, pycnogenol and retinol can be used together.
