Canthaxanthin - the main ingredient in tanning pills

Canthaxanthin (CAN-THA-ZAN-THIN) is a natural occurring red, fat soluble pigmentation found in animals and plants. Being a carotenoid it is a molecule consisting of carbon, hydrogen and in some instances oxygen.

 

The chemical structure of canthaxanthin:

The molecular structure is in the form of extended carbon chains characterized by multiple double bonds. These double bonds are linked to the absorption of light which gives the pigment its red colour.

Besides being a mere pigment this canthaxanthin can also function as a UV photon absorber and a free radical nullifier. Skin cancer is caused from damage to our DNA whereby free radicals can cause cell mutations. Thus canthaxanthin could possibly decrease the chances of developing skin cancer by reducing the UV exposure required to build a tan.

 

 

 

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Canthaxanthin

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