Xanthophylls
Group of oxygenated carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) – antioxidants with confirmed protection against blue light. Pregnancy-safe.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Antioxidants and blue-light filters. Moderate evidence.
- Juturu V et al. Lutein and zeaxanthin for skin health. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol 2016. PMID 27785083
How to read tiers A–F
- BLimited evidence. One RCT or several controlled studies with limitations
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Low
- Allergen risk
- Low
- Pregnancy
- Safe
- Suitable for
- Normal, Dry, Combination, Oily, Sensitive
About this ingredient
Xanthophylls are a class of carotenoids with hydroxyl groups, with lutein and zeaxanthin as the main representatives. INCI: Xanthophylls. Found in spinach, kale and egg yolks. In cosmetics they work as potent antioxidants and blue-light (HEV) filters. They protect the skin from UV- and HEV-induced photoaging (important for people who spend a lot of time on screens). Use levels run from 0.01 to 0.5% (the ingredient is dosed in very small amounts due to its intense orange-yellow color). Pregnancy safety. Topically safe. Skin profile. Low irritation and allergen potential. Non-comedogenic. Suitable for all skin types. Evidence B – clinical data on HEV protection.
Frequently asked questions
Is Xanthophylls safe during pregnancy?
Xanthophylls is considered safe during pregnancy at typical cosmetic concentrations. Systemic absorption through the skin is minimal.
What skin types is Xanthophylls for?
Xanthophylls suits: normal, dry, combination, oily, sensitive.
What is Xanthophylls and what does it do in cosmetics?
Group of oxygenated carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin) – antioxidants with confirmed protection against blue light.
Is Xanthophylls comedogenic?
On the Fulton scale 0/5 – non-comedogenic. For acne-prone skin, a rating of 3 or higher suggests choosing an alternative.
What's the INCI name for Xanthophylls?
The INCI name is Xanthophylls. It may also appear as: Lutein/Zeaxanthin.
See Xanthophylls in a product composition right on the store page
The Evigrade extension adds an evidence panel to iHerb, Sephora, Druni and 12 more stores. This ingredient and every other one in the product show evidence-tier, allergen risk and pregnancy/lactation flags at a glance.
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