Resveratrol

Evidence by route

About this ingredient

Resveratrol (trans-Resveratrol) is a stilbene polyphenol. Found in grape skin (hence the 'red wine paradox'), berries, peanuts, Japanese knotweed. An antioxidant and activator of sirtuins – the cell's 'metabolic control' enzymes. Mechanism. Topically neutralizes free radicals from UV and pollution. In vitro activates SIRT1, upregulates antioxidant enzymes (SOD, catalase). At the skin level this translates into protection of collagen and elastin from degradation. Bioavailability – the bottleneck. Trans-resveratrol oxidizes rapidly in light and oxygen, converting to the cis form with sharply reduced activity. Formulas require airless packaging, dark glass, and stabilizers (tocopherol, ferulic acid). Many commercial serums on the shelf are already partially deactivated by the time of purchase. Where applied. Anti-aging serums and creams (0.1-1%), products against photoaging, night creams. In Spain present in SkinCeuticals Resveratrol B E, in Caudalie lines (winery origins), Sesderma C-Vit Resveraderm. Often combined with vitamin C and ferulic acid. Evidence base. Buonocore 2012 RCT (n=50, 12 weeks, resveratrol + proanthocyanidins) showed improved skin firmness and pigmentation. Wu 2013 – reduced wrinkle depth. The evidence base is moderate: an effect exists, but more modest than with retinoids and vitamin C. Safety. CIR confirmed resveratrol safety (Final Report 2018) up to 1%. Hypoallergenic, non-irritating, non-comedogenic. Allergic reactions are rare. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Systemically, resveratrol was studied as a preeclampsia supplement (Vital 2018, no teratogenic signal), but one baboon study showed impaired fetal pancreas development at high doses. Topical systemic absorption is minimal, but manufacturers often label CAUTION as a precaution.

Tolerability and safety

Skin types

Explore by category

Frequently asked questions