Pycnogenol and Aging: The Complete Guide

Decades of research into Pycnogenol have found that it effectively improves visible signs of aging. Studies show that this magic supplement is several times more powerful than vitamin E and vitamin C, as it effectively increases skin hydration and elasticity by stimulating new collagen production.

So what is this mysterious supplement and how often should you use it? Read our guide to find out.
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What is Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is an extract from the bark of French maritime pine trees (Pinus Pinaster bark) which contains a variety of natural antioxidants, including bioflavonoids, catechins, procyanidins, and phenolic acids. Basically, all the good stuff you need to plump your skin and prevent wrinkle formation.

Pycnogenol is a potent antioxidant for anti-aging and is commonly used in the world of modelling. Supermodel Naomi Campbell is a fan of pine bark extract and adds it to her daily supplement routine.
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What are the benefits of Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is packed full of benefits. If you want a supplement to counteract the signs of skin aging, this is the supplement to take.
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1. Improves skin smoothness and elasticity
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   Supplementation with Pycnogenol has been found to significantly improve skin elasticity by increasing the production of hyaluronic acid and collagen.
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2. Increases skin hydration
   
   An increase in skin hydration was observed in a study of 20 healthy postmenopausal women who supplemented with Pycnogenol for 12 weeks.
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3. Protects skin against UV radiation
   
   Not only does Pycnogenol increase collagen production and hydration in the skin, but several studies provide interesting evidence that oral supplementation with Pycnogenol protects the skin against UV radiation.
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4. Reduces hyperpigmentation
   
   Pycnogenol intake may reduce hyperpigmentation in women with melasma. 30 female patients with melasma ingested Pycnogenol daily for a month. After one month, their melasma was found to be significantly reduced.
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What are the side effects of Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is safe to use for adults. No serious side-effects have been reported. However, it may cause side effects such as:

• Low blood pressure
• Upset stomach
• Dizziness
• Vertigo
  

Please talk to your doctor before using Pycnogenol supplements as they could interact with other medicines you might be taking.
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Where to buy Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol can be bought online, or at your local health food store. Pycnogenol is simply a patented formula of pine bark extract. Look for “pine bark extract” on the label.
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How to use Pycnogenol?

Pycnogenol is taken by mouth in capsule form and is sold as 30mg-100mg per capsule. Start with the lowest dose first, to see how your body reacts to it. We recommend taking 75-100mg per day for at least one month to see results.
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When to take Pycnogenol?

You can take Pycnogenol any time of day, with or without food.
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Why we love it

We think Pycnogenol is the best supplement to take for anti-aging due to its variety of beneficial effects on the skin. A regular intake of this antioxidant-based supplement is a convenient way to protect and preserve your skin’s health. We believe it’s one of the best anti-aging secrets.

As with all supplements, it’s strongly advised to speak to your physician before introducing a new supplement into your system.