Quite simply, antioxidants are substances that prevent oxidation damage to cells while increasing elasticity and strength for cell repair. Some of the most well known antioxidants are Vitamin A, B, E and Pycnogenol. By maintaining an ideal level of antioxidants at the skin level, we can control free radical and oxidation damage and restore the skin with essential nutrients.

Antioxidants serve as a skin barrier and act to prevent free radicals from penetrating to the living dermal layer.

The highest concentration of antioxidants in the body is contained in the epidermal layer of the skin, forming a protective barrier for the living dermal layer and the internal body. As we age, the concentration of antioxidants in the epidermal layer of the skin declines considerably, largely due to the reduced capacity of the micro vascular system at skin level. Without the protective capacity of this layer, damage to the skin increases.

While only about 1% of orally ingested antioxidants will arrive at the skin, antioxidants applied topically can produce an effective barrier level against free radicals.

Each topical application of antioxidants will have an approximate life of up to four days with decreasing concentration. As they neutralize free radicals and prevent UV destruction of cells, the antioxidants become depleted.

• The most effective way to treat the skin is through topical absorption.
• Vitamins A, B, C and E are recognized as powerful antioxidants, but pycnogenol is the most powerful know to date.
• Intaglio Antioxidant Vitamin C Emollient has the highest concentration of L-ascorbic acid on the market to date.
• Antioxidants reduce or neutralize the damage of free radical damage.
• Free radicals damage cells, tissue and DNA and their effects are continual and cumulative.

Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene)

• Speeds cell turnover (normal 28 day cycle reduced to 14 days)
• 32% maximum increase in protein
• Up to 128% increase in collagen
• Stimulates growth of new blood vessels
• Boosts glycolic acid treatment results
• Thickens the epidermis and “plumps out” fine lines and wrinkles

Vitamin C (L-Ascorbic Acid)

• Protects the skin from UVA and UVB sun-damage
• Stimulates cells in the dermis to produce collagen
• Strengthens capillary network
• Support’s the immune system

Intaglio Products In Development

The following products are in the late stages of trials and will be released in 2009.

Vitamin B (Panthenol)

• Effective humectants enabling the skin to hold moisture
• Aids in healing of wounds – reduces skin inflammation
• Protects cell DNA
• Softens and smoothes dry skin

Vitamin D (Calciferol)

• Strengthens cell function
• Protects cell structures and increases cell growth
• Protects skin from DNA damage

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

• Protects cells against free radical damage
• Potent antioxidant
• Prevents transepidermal water loss
• Reduces facial redness
• Anti-inflammatory

Vitamin K (Phythonadione)

• Increases circulation for vein strength
• Reduces dark circles under eyes (caused by blood leakage)
• Aids the skin in healthy cell production
• Helps reduce bruising

Pycnogenol (Vitis Vinfera)

• A premium antioxidant that helps fight free radical damage that cause aging and many degenerative diseases while preventing the breakdown of elastin fibers
• Promotes properties of Vitamin C
• Strengthens the wall of capillaries where nutrients are delivered to your tissue and cells
• Regulates gene expression and are involved in cell-to-cell communication activities that promote normal cell growth.