As the beauty-from-within category continues to make strides, edible retinol could become the next collagen, an ingredient now commonly found in ingestible beauty products.
According to data from Future Market Insights, the global nutricosmetics market is estimated to be valued at USD7bn in 2023, and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% to reach USD15bn by 2033.
Seizing the growth potential is South Korean cosmetics conglomerate Amorepacific, which has recently introduced a retinol-based dietary supplement, named Super Retinol C, under the Vital Beautie brand.
The powder-form supplement is said to be backed by 29 years of retinol research and technology from Amorepacific, and jointly developed with dermatologists.
“Super Retinol C is an innovative product that changes applied retinol to edible retinol, helping users to achieve daily glowing skin.
“The main ingredient, retinol (vitamin A) extracted from Moringa leaves, is combined with vitamins C, D, E, zinc, and pantothenic acid to create a synergistic effect. Our technology — coating granules with antioxidant-rich vitamins C and E — increases the stability of retinol, which typically degrades due to oxidation,” the firm stated.
Other ingredients included in the formulation are L-cysteine, curcumin, and green tea.
In addition, the firm said that users can “easily consume” 1,000mg of vitamin C with two sachets of the powder per day.
“It can be taken directly or mixed with water. As it dissolves well in cold water, it can be enjoyed as a beverage. Moreover, the addition of citrus extract and mango juice gives it a refreshing taste. It is a vegan product that is safe to consume on a regular basis.”
Super Retinol C is currently available at health and beauty retailer Olive Young’s online and offline stores. From November 1, a special set that includes 10 additional sticks on top of the basic 30-piece set will be sold in limited quantities.
Consume with confidence
Known for its myriad skin-benefitting properties, retinol is a form of vitamin A, a nutrient that the body is unable to make on its own.
An active ingredient commonly found in skin care products, it has been reported to help improve wrinkles and fine lines, boost skin cell turnover, promote collagen production, slow melanin synthesis, and increase thickness and elasticity of the skin.
It is also claimed to have a positive effect on acne by reducing sebum production, exfoliating dead skin cells, and preventing clogged pores.
However, some people have shown negative reactions to the ingredient, such as dryness, flaking, redness, rash, irritation, and even burning or stinging sensations.
Instead of topical application, which could disrupt the skin barrier, orally administered retinol is metabolised by the body itself, and is thus likely to have fewer side effects.
“Super Retinol C can be ingested easily and conveniently. Even for those who are sensitive to retinol ingredients, it can be consumed with confidence. We believe that the product will captivate customers with both its taste and cost-effectiveness,” Amorepacific reiterated.