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Lutein
Lutein is an antioxidant carotenoid which promotes eye health and protects against macular degeneration. Lutein also increases skin hydration, elasticity and lipid levels
Lutein & Eye Health: Lutein has been called our "natural sun glasses" due to its ability to protect the eyes against phototoxic damage caused by blue light, a harmful component of sunlight. Lutein and zeaxanthin are found in the macula of the human retina, as well as the human crystalline lens. Once there, they act as an antioxidant to protect the retina from the oxidative damage as well as being an optic filter which absorbs short wavelength light, which is most damaging to the eye.
Long term supplementation health studies (J Food Sci Agri. 81, 9:904-9, 2001) show that lutein is highly beneficial for improving vision in
age-related macular degeneration (ARMD)
cataracts
Lutein may also be beneficial for
hereditary retinitis pigmentosa
Lutein & Skin Health: Previous health studies have shown that a daily lutein supplement may help bolster the skin's natural
antioxidant system and protect against sun damage.
A recent health study in Italy has demonstrated that Lutein is beneficial for more specific, age-related skin benefits, including:
increases skin
hydration
increases skin elasticity & superficial skin lipids
decrease oxidation of lipids – the process that causes skin degradation
Food sources of Lutein include spinach, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, leeks, peas, and egg yolks
Lutein Esters: Lutein esters are derived from marigold flowers and contain a normal blend of carotenoids including zeaxanthin and cryptoxanthin.
Lutein and zeaxanthin are natural fat-soluble yellowish pigments found in some plants, algae and photosynthetic bacteria. They serve as accessory light-gathering pigments and to protect these organisms against the toxic effects of ultra-violet radiation and oxygen. | 
