Grapes May Help Boost Protection Against Ultraviolet Skin Damage

Polyphenols are concentrated in the seeds and skin of grapes and they act as antioxidants to help neutralize damaging free radicals. A recent study has found that consuming grapes may help boost the skin’s natural protection against ultraviolet skin damage.

Nineteen healthy people over the age of 19 participated in the study. They consumed whole grape powder, equivalent to 2.25 cups of grapes, daily for 14 days. The researchers measured participants’ skin response to UV light at baseline and at the end of the study period. They looked at the Minimal Erythema Dose, which is the lowest dose of UV radiation that may produce sunburn after 24 hours. Skin biopsies were also taken.

At the end of the study period, participants saw a 74.8% increase in natural protection of the skin, and that more UV exposure was required to cause sunburn. The skin biopsies showed decreased DNA damage, fewer deaths of skin cells, and a reduction in inflammatory markers. 

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Alabama. It was published online ahead of print on January 20, 2021 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.