Cocoa originated more than 3000 years ago. It has been reported that it was used for nutritional and medicinal purposes by the Mayan and Aztec civilizations. The bioactive constituents found in cocoa components tend to reduce inflammatory processes on account of their ability to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines and their downstream biochemical pathways. The key bioactive compounds and minerals found in cocoa include polyphenols, theobromine, magnesium, copper, potassium and iron. Cocoa is rich in flavonoids, particularly flavanols.1

Cocoa flavanols, in both monomeric and oligomeric form, have strong antioxidant properties, and inhibit lipid peroxidation and neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS). Cocoa components with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory potential have a role in endogenous photoprotection and maintenance of skin health.1 Cocoa butter has been recognized by the FDA for having skin protective properties.2

A study evaluated the impact of cocoa polyphenols on several indicators of skin elasticity and skin tonus, namely, glycosaminoglycans and collagen I, III and IV, using a model of ex vivo human skin explants. The study revealed that cocoa polyphenols had a positive action on the parameters assessed. An enhancing effect of cocoa butter on activity of cocoa polyphenol was noted.3

Cocoa butter is an excellent emollient and an effective moisturizer and skin softener.4 Cocoa butter contains large amounts of fatty acids, both monounsaturated and saturated fatty acids. Cocoa butter is commonly used in skin moisturizers.5

Cocoa butter easily penetrates deep into the skin and hydrates from within. Cocoa butter is naturally rich in Vitamin E and several other vitamins and minerals. The vitamin E component helps to soothe, hydrate, and balance the skin and provides skin collagen which helps with wrinkles and other signs of ageing.6

The soothing, moisturizing and hydrating properties of cocoa butter make it a judicious choice for topical application in dry skin conditions.

References

1. Scapagnini G, Davinelli S, Di Renzo L, et al. Cocoa Bioactive Compounds: Significance and Potential for the Maintenance of Skin Health. Nutrients. 2014 Aug; 6(8): 3202–3213.
2. Correa MCM, Nebus J. Management of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis: The Role of Emollient Therapy. Dermatol Res Pract. 2012; 2012: 836931.
3. Gasser P, Lati E, Peno‐Mazzarino L, et al. Cocoa polyphenols and their influence on parameters involved in ex vivo skin restructuring. International Journal of Cosmetic Medicine 2008;30(5):339-45.
4. Duke JA. The Green Pharmacy Anti-Aging Prescriptions: Herbs, Foods, and Natural Formulas to keep You Young Anti-aging prescriptions. 2001; USA.
5. Katz DL, Doughty K, Ali A. Cocoa and Chocolate in Human Health and Disease. Antioxid Redox Signal. 2011 Nov 15; 15(10): 2779–2811.
6. Leng MS, Njinkoue JM, Ndjouenkeu R. Uses and quality assessment of cocoa butter sold in retail markets in Yaounde capital city, Cameroon. International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research 2016;7(11):142-57.