Vaccinium Myrtillus

Best

Antioxidant

Vaccinium Myrtillus at a glance

  • Also known as bilberry
  • Source of antioxidant compounds known as anthocyanins
  • Has calming abilities
  • Can boost skin’s environmental defenses against UVA light

Vaccinium Myrtillus description

_Vaccinium myrtillus_ (also known as bilberry is one of the best sources of antioxidant compounds known as anthocyanins, polyphenolic chemicals that give bilberries their dark colour. Not surprisingly, bilberries are similar to blueberries.[br] [br] Applied to skin, bilberry is known to strengthen skin against signs of redness, likely due to its calming properties. Bilberry can also boost skin’s environmental defenses in the presence of UVA light.[br] [br] Note that while bilberry contains antioxidants known as tannins, the amounts are low and unlikely to pose a risk to skin. Tannins are one of the antioxidant chemicals in some plants (the most well-known being witch hazel) that offer benefits and risks for skin when they comprise a larger portion of a plant’s antioxidants.

Vaccinium Myrtillus references

  • International Journal of Food Sciences, August 2014, pages 594-601
  • Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology, March 2014, pages 27-35
  • Pharmacognosy Research, July-September 2011, pages 173-177
  • Biofactors, Volume 33, 2008, pages 249-266

Peer-reviewed, substantiated scientific research is used to assess ingredients in this dictionary. Regulations regarding constraints, permitted concentration levels and availability vary by country and region.

Ingredient ratings

Best

Proven and supported by independent studies. Outstanding active ingredient for most skin types or concerns.

Good

Necessary to improve a formula's texture, stability, or penetration.

Average

Generally non-irritating but may have aesthetic, stability, or other issues that limit its usefulness.

Bad

There is a likelihood of irritation. Risk increases when combined with other problematic ingredients.

Worst

May cause irritation, inflammation, dryness, etc. May offer benefit in some capability but overall, proven to do more harm than good.

unknown

We couldn't find this in our ingredient dictionary. We log all missing ingredients and make continuous updates.

Not rated

We have not yet rated this ingredient because we have not had a chance to review the research on it.