Alpha-lipoic acid, or ALA, is an antioxidant manufactured by the body, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. ALA can be found in every cell, where it helps transform glucose into energy. ALA is contained in a growing number of skin care products due to its protective and purported anti-aging effects. In fact ALA has been referred to as "the miracle in a jar," according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Skin Protector
Alpha-lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant that may guard against skin damage as well as repair existing damaging, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Since ALA is both water- and oil-soluble, it can make its way into all parts of a cell, thereby offering maximum protection against free radical damage while enhancing the effects of other antioxidants including vitamins C and E. ALA may decrease the appearance of fine lines and give skin a healthy look.
Anti-Photoaging
The anti-inflammatory properties contained in ALA can help exfoliate the skin by sloughing off dead skin cells which makes way for new skin to appear. A Swedish study published in October 2003 in the British Journal of Dermatology found a 5 percent solution of ALA applied for 12 weeks reduced signs of photoaging like wrinkles and skin roughness. The term photoaging describes skin damage caused by long-term exposure to the sun, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Photoaging can make you appear older than your actual or chronological age. The research was headed by H. Beitner of the Department of Dermatology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
Anti-Inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory effects of alpha lipoic acid can have a soothing effect on the skin. ALA may help offset the potentially irritating effects of some anti-wrinkle creams. For example, tretinoin, brand name Retin-A, may cause side effects such as burning, stinging skin, peeling, redness and unusual dryness of skin, according to the Mayo Clinic.
A study published in August, 2004 in the Archives of Dermatological Research found topical and oral derivatives of ALA may help treat inflammatory skin conditions such as atopic and contact dermatitis as well as psoriasis. The research was headed by M.S. Venkatraman of the Department Medicinal Chemistry, University of Mississippi.
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