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What is FloraGLO® Lutein? The Science of Blue Light Protection for Eyes and Skin

What is FloraGLO® Lutein? The Science of Blue Light Protection for Eyes and Skin

By Team Glo

We love our screens. We also love the convenience of modern life. But if you’ve ever thought, “Why do my eyes feel cooked after a long day?” or “Why does my skin look tired even when I did everything right?” lutein is worth knowing about.

The Short Answer

  • Lutein is a carotenoid antioxidant that concentrates in the eye (especially the macula) and is known for helping filter high-energy visible light (blue light) and supporting visual performance.
  • FloraGLO® is a branded, clinically studied form of lutein sourced from marigolds and used in a significant amount of published lutein research.
  • We use 10 mg of FloraGLO® Lutein in Afterglo gummies as part of an inside-out skin defense formula.

Table of Contents

What is FloraGLO® Lutein?

Lutein is a fat-soluble carotenoid found in foods like leafy greens and marigold flowers. Your body does not make it; you must get it from your diet or supplements.

In the body, lutein is best known for accumulating in the macula (the part of the retina responsible for sharp, central vision). It is a key component of “macular pigment,” which helps absorb blue light and supports antioxidant protection in the eye.

FloraGLO® is a branded lutein ingredient (from marigolds) that’s been used across many human clinical studies. If you want the brand-level overview, here’s our clinical study, and the results we've directly seen: Clinical study on Afterglo's key Ingredient.

If you want the Glotrition version first, we also have a quick explainer here: FloraGLO: What Is It? (Glotrition).

Blue Light Basics (What’s Real, What’s Hype)

Blue light is part of the visible light spectrum, often called high-energy visible (HEV) light. The sun is the biggest source. Screens also emit blue light, but at a much lower intensity than daylight.

So what matters? Research in dermatology shows that visible light, including blue light, can contribute to oxidative stress in the skin. In some cases, it can influence pigmentation and inflammation responses, depending on skin tone and exposure conditions.

Keep it simple: You don’t need to fear your phone. But if you live on screens and you’re already thinking about healthy aging, it makes sense to support your antioxidant baseline and protect your skin barrier.

We still love sunscreen, hats, and common sense. Supplements are support, not a replacement.

Deep dive review (for the science-forward reader): Blue Light in Dermatology (Review).

What the Science Says for Eyes

This is the strongest and most established lane for lutein.

  • Macular pigment and blue light filtering: Lutein and zeaxanthin form macular pigment, which absorbs blue light and supports antioxidant defense in the retina.
  • Visual performance in studies: Human research has also looked at lutein and visual performance measures (like glare recovery and contrast), including photostress recovery time.

New clinical trial highlights FloraGLO lutein’s role in supporting cognitive function

What the Science Says for Skin

This is where things get fun because it’s not just “eye stuff.” Lutein is an antioxidant, and skin is an oxidative stress magnet.

Human studies have explored lutein (often paired with zeaxanthin) for skin outcomes like skin tone, hydration, and photoprotection (how skin responds to UV exposure).

One example: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that lutein plus zeaxanthin improved multiple skin tone measures and improved tolerance to UV exposure using a minimal erythema dose approach.

Source: Lutein + Zeaxanthin Supplementation for Skin Tone (Clinical Study)

Another placebo-controlled study reported an increase in photoprotective activity after supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin.

Important honesty check: These studies support the idea that lutein can play a role in skin antioxidant defense and photoprotection, but they are not a “skip skincare forever” card. Keep your basics: sunscreen, hydration, and consistent routines.

How to Take Lutein (So It Actually Absorbs)

Lutein is fat-soluble. Translation: It generally absorbs better when you take it with a meal that includes some dietary fat.

  • Take it with breakfast or lunch, especially if that meal includes eggs, avocado, olive oil, yogurt, or nuts.
  • Be consistent. Lutein is about building and maintaining tissue levels over time, not a one-day “fix.”

Absorption reference: Lutein Bioavailability and Dietary Fat (Review)

Why Afterglo Uses FloraGLO® Lutein

Afterglo was built for modern life—the kind where you’re in sunlight, in traffic, under indoor lights, and staring at a screen before you’ve even had coffee.

On the formula side, Afterglo includes 10 mg of FloraGLO® Lutein alongside other antioxidants and supportive nutrients. It is positioned as daily skin defense support on our product page:

Shop Afterglo Gummies

  • FloraGLO® Lutein (10 mg): Antioxidant support for skin and eyes.
  • Vitamins A, C, and E: Classic antioxidant and skin support nutrients.
  • Elderberry Extract: Added antioxidant support.
  • FiberSmart Prebiotic Fiber: Included for gut support as part of the formula design.

FAQ

What is FloraGLO® Lutein?

It is a branded lutein ingredient sourced from marigolds that has been used in many human clinical studies regarding lutein's benefits.

Is lutein only for eyes?

No. Eye health is the most established area, but human studies also explore lutein’s role in skin tone, hydration, and photoprotection.

Does lutein “block” blue light from screens?

Lutein contributes to macular pigment in the eye, which absorbs blue light. Screens are not the only blue light source; sunlight is the largest. Think of lutein as internal support, not a screen-time "hall pass."

How long until I notice anything?

Most research looks at weeks to months of consistent use. This is a “build your baseline” ingredient.

Should I still wear sunscreen?

Yes. Always. Supplements provide internal support, while sunscreen provides external protection.

Who should talk to a clinician first?

If you are pregnant, nursing, managing a medical condition, or taking medications, check with your clinician before starting any supplement routine.

Sources

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