Colorless carotenoids

The colorless carotenoids, phytoene and phytofluene, are natural carotenoids that lack visible color due to their lower number of conjugated double bonds on the C40 carbon backbone of the molecule. This structure allows them to absorb light in the UVA and UVB range and quench free radicals also formed by UV light.

Phytoene and phytofluene were initially discovered as a potent and stable substitutes to pigmented carotenoids to protect the skin via mostly topical application. The colorless carotenoids may be beneficial for health protection and nutritional and beauty applications such as protection against UV and oxidative damage. Several articles summarized their protective activities against UV irradiation and free radicals derived from UV, damage to DNA and collagen, anti-inflammatory and the ability to reduce pigmentation. All of which lead to reduction in pre-mature aging and damaged skin resulting in brighter, younger looking and protected skin.