Hen egg yolk oil: A potential source of bioavailable lutein and zeaxanthin for skin and sun protection

Abstract

Ultraviolet radiation is the most harmful of electromagnetic spectrum causing deleterious effects on human skin which are responsible for severe dermatological conditions ranging from tanning, epidermal thickening, erythema, photoaging, immune suppression and skin cancers. The use of sunscreens has become a prerequisite to prevent skin from the detrimental effects of ultraviolet radiations. The adverse effects of synthetic agents is shifting the mindset of the consumer towards the use of natural sources due to their antioxidant properties. One such natural agent reported to be augmented with antioxidants is egg oil, extracted from the yolk of avian eggs. Egg yolk oil, obtained by cold extraction, is a source of phospholipids, triglycerides, cholesterol and similar compounds which resemble the cell membrane in its constitution. Its unique properties of wound healing, burn healing and anti-inflammation has already been established. Egg oil is therefore now being explored as a skin and sunprotectant mainly because it contains abundant lipids and enriched with antioxidant molecules such as lutein and zeaxanthin. This review article discusses the extraction methods, constituents, dermatological applications, commercial sources and patents signifying the tremendous potential of egg oil.