Vitamin K is an essential nutrient that arouses interest in both health and beauty. It is an essential nutrient known mainly for its role in blood coagulation. However, its benefits go beyond vascular health. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in vitamin K and its potential applications in the field of cosmetics and aesthetic medicine.
What is vitamin K
Vitamin K is a group of fat-soluble compounds essential for the human organism. It is composed of several forms, the most common being vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) and vitamin K2 (menaquinone). These vitamins are necessary for the proper functioning of various biological functions, especially in relation to blood coagulation.
Without sufficient vitamin K, the body cannot adequately produce clotting proteins, which can lead to clotting problems and bleeding.
In addition to its role in blood coagulation:
- It plays an important role in bone metabolism, contributing to bone mineralization and strength. Vitamin K helps activate proteins that regulate calcium balance in the body, which is essential for maintaining bone health.
- Some studies suggest that vitamin K may help prevent calcium buildup in the arteries, which may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Where vitamin K is found
In terms of food sources, vitamin K1 is found mainly in dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, broccoli and kale.
On the other hand, vitamin K2 is found in fermented foods, such as cheese and natto (a Japanese dish made from fermented soybeans), cheese, sauerkraut and kefir.
In addition to dietary sources, part of the vitamin K needed by the body is synthesized by intestinal bacteria. These bacteria, present in the intestine, produce vitamin K2 which is then absorbed by the body. The amount of vitamin K synthesized by intestinal bacteria may vary depending on the individual and his or her intestinal health.
Vitamin K in cosmetics
This vitamin is proving to have an interesting role in the field of cosmetics and aesthetic medicine. Although research on its use in cosmetics and aesthetic medicine is promising, more studies are still needed to prove its benefits and establish effective treatment protocols.
Anticoagulant action and anti-inflammatory properties
Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting, helping to prevent bleeding and promoting healing. These anticoagulant properties have led to research on the use of topical vitamin K in the reduction of bruising and hematomas. It is believed that the application of topical products containing vitamin K may accelerate the resolution of hematomas by stimulating the reabsorption of blood degradation products and improving local microcirculation.
In addition, vitamin K has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the skin and soothe irritation, making it a promising ingredient for products to treat conditions such as rosacea and redness.
Collagen production
Vitamin K has been found to have the ability to stimulate collagen synthesis, which can improve the elasticity and overall appearance of the skin. This property has led to the inclusion of vitamin K in anti-aging and skin firming products.
Treatment of dark circles under the eyes
Dark circles under the eyes and superficial skin veins can be a common cosmetic problem for many people. Vitamin K has been used topically as a promising treatment to reduce the appearance of dark circles under the eyes and veins. It is believed to help strengthen blood vessels, thus improving circulation in the area and reducing the appearance of dark circles and visible veins.
Commitment to quality
This text on vitamin K has been prepared by professional editors. In addition, we have relied on experts in medicine, engineering and aesthetics as a source of information, as well as specific studies to maintain the quality of what we publish.
At Sisneo Bioscience we are committed to publish truthful and contrasted information. And to update or correct it as soon as new knowledge becomes available.
Among others, we have used the following sources:
- DiNicolantonio JJ, Bhutani J, O’Keefe JH. «The health benefits of vitamin K» en Open Heart. 2015 Oct 6;2(1):e000300. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2015-000300. PMID: 26468402; PMCID: PMC4600246.
