ABSTRACT
Phytoene and phytofluene are the colorless carotenoids precursors in the biosynthetic pathway of colored carotenoids and absorb electromagnetic irradiation in the UV range only. The colorless carotenoids are found in most carotenogenic organisms, including the unicellular alga Dunaliella. These molecules have effective and benefiting activities both for health protection and nutritional and beauty applications, mostly in protection against UV and oxidative damage leading to premature aging and other disorders. The colorless carotenoids have been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity along with stabilization, protection, and enhancement of bio-molecules. Effects on skin pigmentation were demonstrated recently.
The following chapter collects and summarizes available information on the use and potential applications of phytoene and phytofluene, as well as the use of Dunaliella under defined growth conditions in cosmetics, wellness, nutrition, and therapeutics.
