The study involved 22 women and 8 men with pale skin having an average age of 43 years. The researchers randomly assigned oe group to consume 20 grams of Barry Callebaut ACTICOA dark chocolate everyday. This chocolate had a high flavanol content.

The other group was given similar looking chocolate, but this did not contain high amount of flavanols.

The researchers report their findings in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, the official journal of the International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology. They revealed that the group which consumed dark chocolate high in flavanol content had a markedly improved skin resistance to UV rays of the Sun as compared to the group that ate chocolate with low flavanol content.

Lead researcher Dr. Stefanie Williams, a dermatologist at the Cosmetic Science Group, London University of the Arts and the European Dermatology London said chronic UV exposure plays and important part in the development of skin cancer as well.

"Our study demonstrated that regular consumption of chocolate rich in flavanols confers substantial photoprotection and can thus be effective at protecting human skin from harmful UV effects," she added.

Dark chocolate contains a high amount of cocoa and is also rich in elements called flavanols. These compounds are powerful antioxidants known to reduce cholesterol levels in blood vessels. Flavanols are also found in tea, red wine and some fruits and vegetables.

Many confectionary companies are already researching methods to make their chocolate flavanol-rich. Mars Incorporated, the world leader in chocolate production has been able to incorporate these flavanols into their chocolates.

While a little dark chocolate is good, a lot is not necessarily healthy. Consumers must be aware that chocolate still is loaded with calories. If it is consumed in large amounts, other dietary adjustments must be made, but as the above study demonstrates, consuming dark chocolate regularly may help you retain youthful-looking skin.