Carotenoids and Skin

Dietary carotenoid bioavailability is rather low in comparison to other macronutrients. However, they are absorbed and distributed to hepatic and some extrahepatic tissues, including skin. Co-consumption of dietary fat is essential for carotenoid bioavailability. In contrast, the presence of some other dietary constituents, such as fiber, may reduce carotenoid bioavailability. Fruits and vegetables contain bioactive agents, including carotenoids, that protect not only plants but also humans against solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation damage. Only recently has the role of dietary bioactive agents in the photoprotection of skin started to be investigated and appreciated. Systemic photoprotection via a dietary supply of carotenoids may contribute significantly to skin health and complement the use of sunscreens in protecting the skin against the damaging effects of solar UV exposure. However, the knowledge acquired so far on the role of dietary carotenoids in photoprotection is still in its infancy and needs to be further investigated.