Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane

Tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane is a potent antioxidant and skin-soothing agent in the turmeric plant. This plant is native to India and has a long history of use in Ayurvedic medicine. The main antioxidants from turmeric are collectively known as curcuminoids, three of which have been thoroughly researched. Although curcuminoids are found naturally in the root of the turmeric plant, synthetic forms tend to be used more often in skin care. The reason? Because its natural form is a deep yellow colour which tends to stain skin. Chemists have developed a nearly colourless form that is bio-identical to the curcuminoids found in turmeric, so you get all of the benefits without the stain effect. Along with potent free radical-scavenging activity, tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane and similarly named curcuminoids can visibly reduce irritation and help fade discolourations so skin takes on a more even appearance over time. The curcuminoids also have considerable research showing that topical use helps visibly repair sun-damaged skin (although as with any such ingredient, skin cannot go back to the point before the damage occurred). In essence, curcuminoids are proven to promote and help maintain healthy skin at any age. The curcuminoids, including tetrahydrodiferuloylmethane, also play a role in skin’s hyaluronic acid content, aiding skin’s natural ability to maintain a smooth, hydrated surface. Usage levels in skin care are typically between 0.02–0.5% for antioxidant benefits, with stronger soothing benefits seen in concentrations between 0.5–1%. It is considered safe as used in cosmetics. Curcuminoid ingredients such as this must be carefully formulated due to instability with ongoing exposure to light and air. They are also not soluble in water, so they must be used with glycols, oils or oil-like ingredients to enhance availability on and within skin. Another option is for these ingredients to be encapsulated for sustained delivery to skin’s uppermost layers, which also improves their stability.

Related ingredients: Curcumin