Beta-Carotene

Functions
Antioxidant
CAS Number(s)
7235-40-7
EINECS number(s)
230-636-6

Carotenoids are natural plant pigments that give plants and fruits their color. ß-Carotene is a carotenoid found primarily in carrots and provides a yellow to orange-red color to personal care products. In 1831, beta-carotene was isolated by Wackenroder. Its structure was determined by Karrer in 1931, who received a Nobel prize for his work.

It is an approved coloring agent for foods. Besides carrots, Beta-Carotene naturally occurs in vegetables (sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and squash), and fruits (apricots, cantaloupe melon, mango, paw, nectarines, and peaches).

Chemically, carotenoids are tetraterpenoids and constitute a class of labile, easily oxidizable, and oil-soluble compounds consisting of 40-carbon polyunsaturated hydrocarbon molecules. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A using a carotenoid oxygenase enzyme (Beta-carotene 15,15'-dioxygenase), providing effects similar to retinoids. Unfortunately, that enzyme is only active in the intestine and liver and produced retinal can only reach the skin from the bloodstream.

Beta-carotene is recommended in skincare products where it can be used to condition rough or reddened skin. Because of its ß-Carotene content, the extract may be added to sun care or tanning preparations. In addition, a European report claims that carotenes appear to exhibit specific properties, which may help screen against the effects of UV radiation and free radicals. With vitamins E and C, it forms a trio of antioxidant vitamins frequently used together for a preventive effect on skin disorders, unhealthy conditions, or even cancer. This ingredient also may be used in baby products, night or day creams, and treatment oils that help maintain the skin's healthy function.

Related ingredients

Bakuchiol
Bakuchiol is a derivative from the psoralea corylifolia plant used in oriental medicine. The first natural alternative to retinol.
Encapsulated Retinol
A stabilized form of Vitamin A, Encapsulated Retinol supports skin's natural immune system function to hydrate, diminish fine lines and wrinkles, and reveal a radiant glow.
Lutein
Lutein is one of the carotenoids, an anti-aging ingredient, powerful free-radicle quenching antioxidant found in plants, fruits, and leafy green vegetables. Lutein stimulates the skin’s renewal process; helps fight the damaging effects of sunlight, pollution, stress, and aging.
Lycopene
Lycopene G is carotenoid derived from fruits and vegetables. It has antioxidant ability to defend skin from UV radiation and damage.
Retinol
Retinol is one of the forms of vitamin A (also called vitamin A1) that plays a critical role in maintaining essential functions in the body.
Retinyl Palmitate
Retinyl Palmitate is a stable form of vitamin A that acts as a skin normalizer, this nutrient helps remind the cells of what they "did" when they were young. In addition, it nourishes the skin when applied topically.
Retinyl Propionate
Retinyl Propionate is an ester of retinol and propionic acid, one of the stable forms of vitamin A.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A in cosmetic preparations is intended for all skin types. Mature skin becomes supple and radiant, and wrinkles are reduced.
Apocarotenal
Apocarotenal is a carotenoid with orange-to-orange-red color found in many fruits and vegetables (citruses, spinach, etc) that is used in foods, drugs, personal care applications, and decorative cosmetics as a safe colorant or pigment.
Astaxanthin
Astaxanthin is a carotenoid with a pink-red color, a powerful natural antioxidant found in aquatic animals like fish, krill, and shrimps. This carotenoid is responsible for red pigmentation and has biological and nutritional functions.
Canthaxanthin
Canthaxanthin is a red-pigmenting carotenoid found in the Chanterelle mushroom, in the skin pigment of certain crustaceans, and in the skin and organs of many birds and fish.
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate
Hydroxypinacolone Retinoate is a pure ester form of Tretinoin (all-trans-Retinoic acid) that works similarly to Retin-A but without the irritation of Tretinoin.