Xanthophylls are a class of oxygen-containing carotenoids, constituting the majority of carotenoid family in nature. The varieties of xanthophylls include: lutein, zeaxanthin, β- cryptoxanthin, capsanthin, astaxanthin, and fucoxanthin. Among them, lutein and zeaxanthin are dipolar carotenoids, with hydroxyl groups at the ends of their molecules giving them the hydrophilic properties. It is believed that lutein and zeaxanthin have high efficiency in scavenging free radicals, since the hydrophilic properties of them lead to better bioavailability when reacting with singlet oxygen in water phase. Xanthophylls have been widely researched due to its functionality, bioavailability and diversity. 

Lutein is trusted to play an important role in human body including eye and skin health. For the eye benefit, lutein is a potent antioxidant that can absorb blue light, act as a filter and shield against the damaging of short-wavelength visible light. From researches, lutein may act in lowering the risk of age-related macular degeneration and improving the visual performance. For skin health benefit, it is illustrated that lutein has been shown to be effective against free radical-induced damage in human skin, enhancing skin density, hydration and elasticity. 

Applications: 

Anti-aging products, visual protection products, skin protection products; suitable for tablets, hard-shell capsules, effervescent beverages, other selected foods. 

Use level: 

0.1-0.5 % (As Active).