PhytoMelanin ups sunscreen antioxidant properties

California-based Jan Marini says it is launching a facial sun protector with antioxidant properties that enhance sunscreen and anti-aging qualities thanks to the active ingredient PhytoMelanin, a derivative of date palm fruit.

Tapping into demand for natural active ingredients that provide added efficacy, the manufacturers claim that the sunscreen provides comprehensive and effective protection for the vulnerable face area.

The Jan Marini Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant contains an SPF 30 sunscreen that meets current recommendations for everyday sun protection by US dermatologists.

However, what makes it really stand out is the fact that studies have found that when PhytoMelanin is applied topically, it delivers beneficial antoxidant and free radical scavenger properties to the skin.

The key to the PhytoMelanin efficacy is the fact that it contains melanin, a key component of skin and one that helps to determine how dark it is.

Invariably the more melanin in the skin, the darker it is and the more protection is has from the sun.

Thanks to the topical addition of melanin, this means that the ingredient offers added antioxidant and free scavenger properties to the skin, that in turn help to protect from sunburn cell formation, lipid peroxidation, erythema and inflammation.

The sunscreen itself is said to have broad-spectrum protection of 400 nanometers, which also safeguards from both UVA and UVB rays.

Perhaps equally important is the fact that as well as having enhanced UV efficacy, the antioxidant properties also work towards enhancing the formulation's anti-aging properties.

The company says that it has also managed to formulate the skin care line with the PhytoMelanin according to other key products in its line, giving it a consistent texture and finish when applied.