Lutein Benefits for Skin and Eye Health
Summary: Lutein is a powerful antioxidant known for supporting eye and skin health†. This article explores the key health benefits of lutein, including its role in macular function, blue light response, skin hydration, elasticity, and UV protection. Learn how lutein works in the body, which foods contain it, and how supplements can help you maintain consistent intake.
Lutein is an antioxidant that helps support eye and skin health†. It also plays a role in maintaining skin hydration and elasticity and supports the body’s natural defenses against UV exposure†. Since the body does not produce lutein, it must be obtained through food or supplements.
Lutein Health Benefits for Supporting Eye and Vision Health†
Lutein Health Benefits for Eyes During Screen and Blue Light Exposure†
Lutein helps support the eyes’ natural defenses against blue light exposure from computers, phones, and other digital devices†. Excessive screen time may also influence sleep patterns and overall well-being.
A Harvard report compared the effects of different types of light exposure on melatonin production and sleep regulation. Blue light was shown to influence these sleep-related responses for almost twice as long as green light†. Surprisingly, blue light suppressed the release of melatonin, a hormone produced by the body to regulate sleep, almost twice as long as green light†. In addition, blue light exposure delayed natural sleep rhythms twice as long†.
Lutein Health Benefits for Supporting Macular and Long-Term Eye-Health†
Lutein helps support the health of the macula, the part of the eye responsible for central vision†. Research from the National Eye Institute (NEI) investigated the relationship between adding lutein to the diet and long-term eye health. Participants who consumed lutein showed supportive trends in maintaining healthy macular function over time†.
Cooper Complete Eye Health and Original Multivitamin supplements both include lutein to help support overall eye health†. (Bonus: See this blog post, the Best Supplements for Eye Health, to learn more about the ingredients in Eye Health.)
Lutein Health Benefits for Skin Health†
Lutein Health Benefits for Skin’s Natural UV Response†
Lutein helps support the skin’s natural response to UV exposure†. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the British Journal of Dermatology investigated the effects of lutein and lycopene supplementation on markers related to UV-induced skin stress. Specifically, it measured markers associated with UV-induced skin stress. Researchers studied skin biopsies for signs of UV damage and found that these nutrients showed supportive skin responses compared to the placebo group†.
Lutein Health Benefits for Skin Hydration, Tone, and Elasticity†
A study published in Clinical, Cosmetic, and Investigational Dermatology evaluated the support of lutein and zeaxanthin for skin hydration, tone, and elasticity†. Participants taking these antioxidants showed supportive changes in measures related to skin appearance and elasticity†.
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$56.98 Add to cartBecause of these supportive findings, Cooper Complete Original Multivitamins and Dermatologic Health Hair, Skin and Nails Supplement contains these key nutrients to support skin health†. (See the blog post, Vitamins and Supplements for Skin: What Really Helps? for a deep dive into supplements for skin health†.
How to Increase Lutein Intake for Eye and Skin Health†
Top Food and Supplement Sources of Lutein†
Healthy eyes and skin start with a nutritious diet. Foods naturally rich in lutein include:
- Dark and leafy vegetables
- Yellow bell peppers
- Corn
- Egg yolks
Supplements can also be a convenient way to maintain consistent lutein intake. Lutein is included in Cooper Complete Original Multivitamins, Eye Health, and Dermatologic Health Hair, Skin and Nails Supplement.
As always, your physician understands your personal health needs best, so discuss any new supplement with them.
About the Author: Jill Turner is the President of Cooper Complete® Nutritional Supplements, where she oversees product development and customer experience. She enjoys writing about vitamins, supplements, and preventive health to help consumers make informed, science-backed decisions.