InsideJapan News Network

Mature Japanese women are enjoying greater levels of protection against the common signs of ageing skin thanks to a soy-rich diet, a study has found.

The research, conducted by Japanese scientists from the Saga Nutraceuticals Research Institute, indicated that the soy-based S-Equol supplement can not only slow signs of ageing in menopausal women, but also repair previous dermatological damage.

Ayuko Oyama, lead author on the study, said "doses of either ten or 30 milligrams of natural S-Equol daily" can have "beneficial effects on crow's feet wrinkles".

The results were presented at the annual meeting of the North American Menopause Society and have been backed up by other skin care experts.

Louise Thomas-Minns, founder of health and beauty site uandyourskin.co.uk, endorsed the merits of a soy-based diet, pointing to the antioxidant properties of the legume.

"Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare and diet will protect the skin from further damage" she said.

Written by Mark Smith