CACAO EXTRACT
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Serum, nutritional supplement, cream
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CACAO EXTRACT?
Cacao has been used for centuries as a medicinal ingredient, with widespread effects on human health. It upregulates nitric oxide production, inducing vasodilation and potentially improving circulation. The polyphenols in cacao have been shown to inhibit PI3K and MEK1, preventing TNF-alpha-induced upregulation of VEGF, which is implicated in various autoimmune conditions. In cases of dust-related atopic dermatitis, it attenuates the response of dust mites by suppression of immune activity. Through anti-inflammatory and antioxidant action, it influences insulin resistance and protects nerves from inflammation. Its oral intake can improve ultraviolet B-induced wrinkles in mouse models and may produce a photoprotective effect when ingested for at least a week. In humans, cocoa pod extract has been shown at 3 weeks to improve the cosmetic appearance of wrinkles.
WHAT IS CACAO EXTRACT?
Cacao extract is from the seeds of the Theobroma cacao tree. The extract is rich in lipids (often referred to as cocoa butter), fiber, minerals (e.g., magnesium, copper, potassium, calcium), and polyphenols. The polyphenols, including flavonoids, are presumed to be responsible for the antioxidant activity of cacao. When processed, it is often referred to as cocoa, a common component in chocolate.
IS CACAO EXTRACT SAFE FOR ALL SKIN TYPES AND TONES?
Cacao extract is likely safe for all skin types and tones based on available data.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
Individuals with prior reactions to cacao extract or similar products (e.g., chocolate) should use caution in products containing cacao extract. Multiple studies on confectionary workers have shown irritative potential of these products on the skin and respiratory system. Studies showing the antioxidant potential of cacao extract have also stated the possibility of pro-oxidant action, so there may be unintended pro-oxidant action, which may worsen sun damage.
Sources:
Abdul Karim A, Azlan A, Ismail A, et al. Efficacy of cocoa pod extract as antiwrinkle gel on human skin surface. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2016;15(3):283-295.
Agudelo C, Bravo K, Ramírez-Atehortúa A, Torres D, Carrillo-Hormaza L, Osorio E. Chemical and Skincare Property Characterization of the Main Cocoa Byproducts: Extraction Optimization by RSM Approach for Development of Sustainable Ingredients. Molecules. 2021;26(24):7429. Published 2021 Dec 7.
Calzavara-Pinton P, Calzavara-Pinton I, Arisi M, et al. Cutaneous Photoprotective Activity of a Short-term Ingestion of High-Flavanol Cocoa: A Nutritional Intervention Study. Photochem Photobiol. 2019;95(4):1029-1034.
Kang H, Lee CH, Kim JR, Kwon JY, Son MJ, Kim JE, Lee KW. Theobroma cacao extract attenuates the development of Dermatophagoides farinae-induced atopic dermatitis-like symptoms in NC/Nga mice. Food Chem. 2017 Feb 1;216:19-26.
Katz DL, Doughty K, Ali A. Cocoa and chocolate in human health and disease. Antioxid Redox Signal 2011;15;2779-811.
Kim JE, Song D, Kim J, et al. Oral Supplementation with Cocoa Extract Reduces UVB-Induced Wrinkles in Hairless Mouse Skin. J Invest Dermatol. 2016;136(5):1012-1021.
Kim JE, Son JE, Jung SK, et al. Cocoa polyphenols suppress TNF-α-induced vascular endothelial growth factor expression by inhibiting phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) and mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase-1 (MEK1) activities in mouse epidermal cells. Br J Nutr. 2010;104(7):957-964.
Zuskin E, Kanceljak B, Mustajbegovic J, Schachter EN. Immunologic findings in confectionary workers. Ann Allergy. 1994;73(6):521-526.
