Improved Skin Elasticity Research Articles

Increased synthesis of hyaluronic acid by enhanced penetration of CTP-EGF recombinant in human keratinocytes.

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) plays an important role in regeneration and proliferation of skin cells. It synthesizes fibrous proteins, such as collagen, and induces the proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts. It can also induce hyaluronic acid synthesis, which subsequently leads to improved skin elasticity, wrinkle improvement, and moisturizing effects. Thus, the EGF is an attractive cosmetic additive for skin care. We tested the use of cytoplasmic transduction peptide (CTP) as a delivery peptide for EGF into skin cells. Additionally, we characterized the skin permeability of CTP-EGF for its potential use in skin antiaging and antiwrinkle cosmetics. Skin penetration by recombinant CTP-EGF protein was confirmed using fluorescent imaging techniques. The ability to synthesize hyaluronic acid was confirmed by immunoblotting and ELISA. CTP-EGF displayed cell membrane permeability and could penetrate skin cells. Treatment with CTP-EGF increased collagen protein formation, which is a major regulator of skin elasticity. Further, CTP-EGF treatment led to increased expression of HAS3 enzyme and subsequently boosted hyaluronic acid synthesis. The CTP-EGF also performed better than natural EGF in wound healing assays. CTP-EGF has a superior ability, compared with natural EGF, to permeate skin and induce hyaluronic acid synthesis and collagen formation. Thus, it has great potential to be used in cosmetics and therapeutic agents to improve wrinkles and health of the skin.

Clinical efficacy of herbal extract cream on the skin hydration, elasticity, thickness, and dermis density for aged skin: A randomized controlled double-blind study.

Traditional medicine herbal prescriptions used for the treatment of skin disease have been developed into cosmetics. Sang-Hyul-Yun-Boo-Em (SHYBE) is a mixed herbal formula prescribed for patients with yin or blood deficiency patterns of skin disease. A previous study reported that SHYBE exercises anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effects. To date, no study has reported the efficacy of cosmetics containing the SHYBE extract. To observe the efficacy of SHYBE extract cream on hydration, elasticity, thickness, and dermis density in aged skin. This was a double-blind randomized placebo-controlled parallel-group trial. The trial consisted of an 8-week topical application of the test or placebo products with two visits at 4-week intervals. A total of 46 healthy Korean females, aged 40-59, were enrolled in this study. Objective skin assessments for hydration, elasticity, thickness and dermis density, self-assessment, and safety assessment were conducted. Sang-Hyul-Yun-Boo-Em extract cream improved skin hydration, elasticity, and dermal density in Asian middle-aged females compared with placebo cream, which excluded SHYBE extract and contained other cosmetic materials. Sang-Hyul-Yun-Boo-Em extract cream showed anti-aging properties in middle-aged women. It could be recommended for aging skin with dryness, and loss of elasticity and density.

Inhibitory effects of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract on HYBID (KIAA1199)‐mediated hyaluronan degradation and skin wrinkling

Hyaluronan (HA), an important constituent of extracellular matrix in the skin, has many biological activities such as hydration that contributes to firmness and bounciness of the skin. We have reported that reduction in HA in the papillary dermis and over-expression of HYBID (HYaluronan Binding protein Involved in hyaluronan Depolymerization, alias KIAA1199 or CEMIP), a key molecule for HA degradation in skin fibroblasts, are implicated in facial skin wrinkling in Japanese and Caucasian women. However, little or no information is available for substances which inhibit the HYBID-mediated HA degradation. Inhibition of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract and ziyuglycoside I, one of the components of Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, to the HYBID-mediated HA degradation was assessed by size-exclusion chromatography of HA depolymerized by stable transfectants of HYBID in HEK293 cells (HYBID/HEK293 cells) or normal human skin fibroblasts (Detroit 551 cells and NHDF-Ad cells). The HYBID mRNA and protein expression was examined by quantitative real-time PCR and immunoblotting in the skin fibroblasts treated with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, and size distribution of newly produced HA was evaluated by preparing metabolically radiolabelled HA. A double-blind, randomized and placebo-controlled study was carried out in the 21 healthy Japanese women, who were topically treated with the formulation containing Sanguisorba officinalis root extract or the placebo on each side of the face including crow's foot area. Sanguisorba officinalis root extract, but not ziyuglycoside I, abolished HYBID-mediated HA degradation by HYBID/HEK293 cells. Sanguisorba officinalis root extract also inhibited HYBID-mediated HA degradation in skin fibroblasts by down-regulating HYBID mRNA and protein expression. Although control untreated skin fibroblasts produced polydispersed HA, the cells treated with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract produced only high-molecular-weight HA. Treatment with Sanguisorba officinalis root extract-formulated lotion significantly improved skin elasticity, and reduced skin wrinkling scores at the outer eye corner compared with the placebo formulation. Sanguisorba officinalis root extract showed an anti-HYBID-mediated HA degradation activity and anti-wrinkle activity on human facial skin, which is accompanied by the improvement in elasticity. Our study provides the possibility of a new strategy to inhibit HYBID-mediated HA degradation for anti-wrinkle care.

Inhibition of HYBID (KIAA1199)-mediated hyaluronan degradation and anti-wrinkle effect of Geranium thunbergii extract.

Hyaluronan (HA) is an essential constituent of extracellular matrix in the skin. HA reduction in the dermis and overexpression of HYBID (KIAA1199), a key molecule for HA degradation in skin fibroblasts, are implicated in facial skin wrinkling. We aimed to obtain anti-wrinkle agent(s) by screening for inhibition of HYBID-mediated HA degradation. Various plant extracts were screened for inhibition of HA degradation in HYBID-stable transfectants in HEK293 (HYBID/HEK293). Inhibition of HA-degrading activity and HYBID mRNA and protein expression by Geranium thunbergii extract was studied in skin fibroblasts and HYBID/HEK293 cells. Size distribution of newly produced HA was evaluated by preparing metabolically radiolabeled HA in skin fibroblasts. A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study was performed in healthy Japanese women (n=21) by topically treating each side of the face with a lotion formulated with G.thunbergii extract or placebo for 8weeks. Among the plant extracts tested, only G.thunbergii extract abolished HA depolymerization in skin fibroblasts and HYBID/HEK293 cells by down-regulating HYBID mRNA and protein expression and by inhibiting HYBID-mediated HA-degrading activity. Although untreated skin fibroblasts produced polydispersed HA, G.thunbergii extract-treated cells produced high-molecular-weight HA. Treatment with G.thunbergii extract-formulated lotion significantly improved skin elasticity and reduced skin wrinkling scores at the outer eye corner compared with the placebo formulation. Geranium thunbergii extract inhibited HYBID-mediated HA degradation in vitro and showed anti-wrinkle activity in vivo accompanying the improvement in skin elasticity. Our study provides a possible strategy for anti-wrinkle care through inhibition of HYBID-mediated HA degradation.

Eggshell membrane application and ingestion improve skin elasticity

Eggshell membrane application and ingestion improve skin elasticity

Noni Juice and Hydrolyzed Fish Collagen Supplement Improves Skin Elasticity

Morinda citrifolia, more commonly known as noni, is a tropical tree with fruit that has a wide variety of traditional uses and biological effects. It had been used for the maintenance of skin health by Pacific Islanders and has been found to promote collagen deposition in vivo. Oral ingestion of hydrolyzed collagen has also been shown to improve skin quality. A 21-day human intervention study was conducted to evaluate a dietary supplement containing a combination of noni fruit juice and hydrolyzed marine collagen, as well as other ingredients, on skin viscoelastic properties in healthy Japanese adults. Daily ingestion of the supplement significantly improved net elasticity and biological elasticity measurements of the cheek. This also accompanied a trend for lowered skin autofluorescence, a measurement of skin glycation. The results indicate that the combination of noni fruit juice and hydrolyzed collagen improved skin biomechanical properties through enhanced collagen and elastin deposition in the skin, reduced skin glycation and improved skin hydration, possibly from increased hyaluronic acid concentration. Noni fruit juice also effectively scavenged cumene hydroperoxide in vitro. The positive effects on skin quality are likely due, in part, to the antioxidant and antiglycative properties of the supplement, as well as its ability to induce fibroblast proliferation and influence extracellular matrix protein gene expression.

Two‐phase delivery using a horse oil and adenosine‐loaded dissolving microneedle patch for skin barrier restoration, moisturization, and wrinkle improvement

Dissolving microneedles (DMNs) have been used for skin restoration and wrinkle improvement. Although lipophilic compounds, for example, natural oils or ceramides, enrich the skin barrier, their delivery via DMNs is challenging because of DMN fabrication difficulties. In the present study, we combined a topical formulation and a DMN patch to perform two-phase delivery comprising a lipophilic formulation and hydrophilic compound-loaded DMNs to improve skin barrier status and the efficacy of drug delivery. Horse oil-spread and adenosine-loaded DMN arrays were developed in a single patch (HOS-Ad-DMN patch). In vitro analysis was conducted to confirm the successful delivery of the compositions. Clinical assessments were conducted on the lateral canthus of 20 women to compare the efficacy of HOS-Ad-DMN patches with that of adenosine-loaded DMN patches (Ad-DMN patches). Adenosine was delivered via the DMNs after skin penetration and horse oil was delivered successfully into the skin through the microchannels created by the Ad-DMNs. Compared with Ad-DMN patches, HOS-Ad-DMN patches significantly improved skin elasticity, hydration, dermal density, and wrinkles. No adverse events were observed. HOS-Ad-DMN patches are a safe and efficient system for skin restoration and wrinkle improvement.

Utility of the Teslar Facial Massager for Skin Elasticity and the Mechanism of its Effects

The Teslar is a facial massager that emits a weak electric current, where users have reported a beneficial effect on skin elasticity with continued use. Accordingly, we conducted a clinical utility study and a comprehensive gene analysis, with cultured human fibroblasts to investigate the utility and mechanism of this treatment. In this clinical utility study, we found significant improvement in skin elasticity in Teslar treatments, compared to controls after two weeks of treatment. In cell experiments, we found that adenosine triphosphate synthesis and collagen contraction were promoted in fibroblasts cultured in type I collagen gel, following Teslar treatment. We considered that Teslar treatment exerted a structurally regenerative effect on the dermal matrix, based on the results of GeneChip® Expression Analysis. In particular, we demonstrated that Teslar treatment promotes type I collagen mRNA expression and fibulin-5/DANCE (Developmental arteries and neural crest EGF (epidermal growth factor)-like) mRNA expression and protein levels, which are reduced with aging. We also found increases in LTBP-3 (Latent TGF-β binding protein-3) and CSPG4 (Chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan 4) mRNA expression levels. Based on these results, we considered that Teslar treatment promoted dermal regeneration and recovery of skin elasticity.

Daily oral supplementation with collagen peptides combined with vitamins and other bioactive compounds improves skin elasticity and has a beneficial effect on joint and general wellbeing

Aging is a multifactorial and natural process that causes physiological changes in organs, tissues and cells over time. In the skin and cartilage, aging leads to a decrease in the synthesis and changes in the arrangement of proteoglycans and collagen, in addition to the loss of glycosaminoglycans, which are responsible for the integrity and health of these tissues. We hypothesized that daily oral supplementation with a liquid nutraceutical containing hydrolyzed fish collagen, vitamins, antioxidants and other active ingredients could improve skin texture and elasticity, and in addition have a protective effect on joint health. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted on 120 subjects who consumed either the test product or placebo on a daily basis for 90 days. Subjects consuming the test product had an overall significant increase in skin elasticity (+40%; P < .0001) when compared to placebo. Histological analysis of skin biopsies revealed positive changes in the skin architecture, with a reduction in solar elastosis and improvement in collagen fiber organization in the test product group. As reported in the self-perception questionnaires, these results were confirmed by the subjects' own perceptions in that participants agreed their skin was more hydrated and more elastic. In addition, the consumption of the test product reduced joint pain by −43% and improved joint mobility by +39%. Oral supplementation with collagen bioactive peptides combined with chondroitin sulphate, glucosamine, L-carnitine, vitamins, and minerals significantly improved the clinical parameters related to skin aging and joint health, and therefore, might be an effective solution to slow down the hallmarks of aging.

Coumestrol/hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin association incorporated in hydroxypropyl methylcellulose hydrogel exhibits wound healing effect: in vitro and in vivo study

Several beneficial effects on the skin have been reported for coumestrol (COU), such as protection against photoaging and improvement of skin elasticity and thickness in postmenopausal women. However no reports on the effect of COU on wound healing were found. Nevertheless, COU has low aqueous solubility, which is a crucial limitation for biological tests. The present study was designed as a two-step experiment to evaluate the wound healing effect of COU. First, we used fibroblasts and the experimental in vitro artificial wound model, scratch assay, to compare the effects of COU free, dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), or associated with hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD). The 50 μM (66.1%) and 10 μM (56.3%) COU/HPβCD association induced cell proliferation and migration in inflicted wounds. Subsequently, the in vivo wound healing experimental model (Wistar rats) revealed that COU/HPβCD incorporated into hypromellose (HPMC) hydrogel had similar efficacy in wound healing in comparison to the positive control (Dersani®), with the advantage that 50% wound healing was achieved within a shorter period. In summary, the results successfully demonstrated, for the first time, the wound healing effect of COU/HPβCD incorporated into HPMC hydrogel and describe the feasibility of the biological tests with the use of HPβCD instead DMSO.

373 Efficacy of Pressure Garment Therapy at Reduced Lengths of Daily Wear

Patient compliance is a major challenge associated with pressure garment therapy with studies reporting compliances as low as 40%. . We hypothesize that if patients were able to wear the garments for less time per day, the discomforts associated with garment use would be reduced and patient compliance may improve. To examine the effect of duration of daily wear on outcomes, we assessed scar development and maturation in autografted burns treated with pressure garment therapy for 8, 16 and 24 hours/day in a porcine model. Full-thickness burns (1 x 1 in) were created on red Duroc pigs (8 burns/pig), then were excised and autografted with split-thickness skin. Custom, adjustable pressure garments were applied 1 week after grafting and maintained at 20 ± 2 mmHg. Garments were worn for 8, 16, or 24 hours a day for 15 weeks; control scars did not receive any pressure treatment (n=16/group). Scar properties monitored over time included contraction, scar height, erythema, surface roughness, tissue biomechanics, scar anatomy and extracellular matrix organization/composition. After only 8 weeks of pressure garment therapy, scars in the 24 hour/day group were approximately 49% less contracted than controls and 20% less contracted than the 8 and 16 hour/day groups. This difference persisted throughout the study (p < 0.05). At the end of the study, all treatment conditions significantly reduced scar thickness vs. controls. Scar stiffness and pliability were significantly improved over controls with just 8 hours/day of wear; however, applying pressure 24 hours a day enhanced these effects and also improved skin elasticity. No difference in erythema between pressure treated and control scars was observed. Pressure garments worn for at least 8 hours/day are effective at reducing contraction and scar thickness and also improving elasticity versus controls; however, the greatest benefits in scar properties was observed with continuous use (24 hours/day). The current practice of prescribing 23 hour/day use of compression garments is warranted as outcomes are greatest when therapy is maintained. Reduced use (8–16 hours per day) provides modest improvements to some scar properties. However, patients should continue to be encouraged to comply with current therapy regimens to achieve maximum benefit.

Complex Effects of Hot and Cold Procedures on Skin Elasticity in Spa &amp; Wellness

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the complex effects of the hot and cold procedures, practiced in modern Spa &amp; Wellness, on skin elasticity, as that indicator is an integral factor defining the aesthetic vision of the skin. Material and Methods: The present study tracked 60 women aged 35 to 65 years. The methods included an aesthetic skin rejuvenation program that contained a complex of 12 Spa and Wellness rituals conducted in a period of one month, three times per week. Each treatment was а temperature contrast procedure through a Parafango body thermo-application and a face cryo-gel application. The facial skin condition was assessed by an A-ONE apparatus - an automatic skin diagnostic analyzer. Results: A significant improvement in the skin elasticity in the three studied age groups was observed after the procedures. This indicator increased 3.75 units (9.93%) in the 35-44 age group, 3.5 units (11.36%) in the 45-54 age-group and 1.80 units (8.22 %) in the observed individuals from 55-65 age-group. At the end of a treatment, the increase in all three age groups was statistically significant (p&lt;0.05). Skin elasticity assessment was significantly lower for all three age-groups before the procedures, compared to the established standards. After the applied procedures, the skin elasticity was approaching the established standard (the first age group exceeded the standard, the second approached the standard and the third was slightly below the standard). Conclusion: The study reveals that the complex effects of hot and cold procedures result in improved skin elasticity.

Cutometric assessment of elasticity of skin with striae distensae following carboxytherapy.

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of carboxytherapy in the treatment of striae distensae. Additionally, discomfort and side effects associated with the treatment were assessed. This study involved 15 women aged 22-40years. They underwent 3 sessions of carboxytherapy at one-week intervals. Treatment was performed in skin area within stretch marks located on stomach, buttocks, and thighs. Cutometric probe was used to evaluate skin elasticity. Four measurements were performed-immediately before each treatment and one month after the last session. Photographic documentation was made before and after a series of treatment to perform clinical evaluation of changes in skin condition. Statistical analysis of results obtained with the use of Cutometer (R2 and R8 parameters) demonstrated that carboxytherapy significantly improved skin elasticity within stretch marks (P<.05). The analysis of photographic documentation revealed 58% improvement in stretch mark visibility. The width and length of stretch marks decreased, and their color became more like the natural color of the skin. Carboxytherapy is associated with moderate pain/discomfort. The occurrence of hematoma is the main side effect of this procedure. Carboxytherapy seems to be an effective method of reducing stretch marks. This procedure is safe, and it can be performed without the risk of complications. Moreover, it does not require special postoperative convalescence. Photographic documentation is a method of assessment of aesthetic procedures effectiveness, which is complementary to other objective methods (eg, the use of MPA probes).

DFD-01, a Betamethasone Dipropionate 0.05% Spray Lotion. Reduces Transepidermal Water Loss and Improves Skin Hydration and Elasticity

Abstract Not Available

GABA promotes elastin synthesis and elastin fiber formation in normal human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs).

The multiple physiological effects of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) as a functional food component have been recently reported. We previously reported that GABA upregulated the expression of type I collagen in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs), and that oral administration of GABA significantly increased skin elasticity. However, details of the regulatory mechanism still remain unknown. In this study, we further examined the effects of GABA on elastin synthesis and elastin fiber formation in HDFs. Real-time PCR indicated that GABA significantly increased the expression of tropoelastin transcript in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the expression of fibrillin-1, fibrillin-2, and fibulin-5/DANCE, but not lysyl oxidase and latent transforming factor-β-binding protein 4, were also significantly increased in HDFs. Finally, immunohistochemical analysis confirmed that treatment with GABA dramatically increased the formation of elastic fibers in HDFs. Taken together, our results showed that GABA improves skin elasticity in HDFs by upregulating elastin synthesis and elastin fiber formation.

Cell-free autologous conditioned serum (ACS) improves skin elasticity: Results of an investigator initiated clinical trial OrthoSkin I

Cell-free autologous conditioned serum (ACS) improves skin elasticity: Results of an investigator initiated clinical trial OrthoSkin I

Beneficial Effects of Oral Supplementation With Ovoderm on Human Skin Physiology: Two Pilot Studies

ABSTRACTCollagens and hyaluronic acid have long been used in pharmaceuticals and food supplements for the improvement of skin elasticity and hydration. These compounds provide the building blocks of the skin. Ovoderm is an oral supplement obtained from eggshells that contains naturally occurring collagen and glycosaminoglycans, such as hyaluronic acid. We evaluated the efficacy of Ovoderm on skin biophysical parameters related to cutaneous aging such as elasticity, hydration, and pigmentation. Two pilot studies were run to assess the effect of daily oral supplementation with 300 mg Ovoderm on skin parameters. The first consisted of a self-assessment questionnaire intended to perform an assessment on skin, hair, and nail health after 50 days of treatment. The second measured the effect of 5-week treatment on hydration by corneometry, on elasticity with the cutometer, and on pigmentation with the mexameter. In the pilot study 1, participants were predominantly satisfied with the effects obtained on general face (100% volunteers satisfied) and body (94% volunteers satisfied) skin condition and skin properties (100% volunteers satisfied with facial skin softness, 94% with facial skin hydration, and 89% with body skin hydration) and partly with effects on hair (67% volunteers satisfied) and nail (50% volunteers satisfied) condition. The study 2 revealed a statistically significant improvement in skin elasticity (12% increase, p =.0136), a tendency to reduce skin pigmentation (5% decrease), and no significant change in skin hydration. Our study reflects that oral supplementation with Ovoderm is efficacious to reduce the gradual loss of skin elasticity characteristic of aged skin, which helps to improve the appearance of the skin.

Mexametric and cutometric assessment of the signs of aging of the skin area around the eyes after the use of non-ablative fractional laser, non-ablative radiofrequency and intense pulsed light.

The assessment of the signs of aging within eyes area in cutometric (skin elasticity) and mexametric (discoloration and severity of erythema) examination after the treatment with: non-ablative fractional laser, non-ablative radiofrequency (RF) and intense light source (IPL). This study included 71 patients, aged 33-63 years (the average age was 45.81) with Fitzpatrick skin type II and III. 24 patients received 5 successive treatment sessions with a 1,410-nm non-ablative fractional laser in two-week intervals, 23 patients received 5 successive treatment sessions with a non-ablative RF in one-week intervals and 24 patients received 5 successive treatment sessions with an IPL in two-week intervals. The treatment was performed for the skin in the eye area. The Cutometer and Mexameter (Courage + Khazaka electronic) reference test was used as an objective method for the assessment of skin properties: elasticity, skin pigmentation and erythema. Measurements of skin elasticity were made in three or four sites within eye area. The results of cutometric measurements for R7 showed the improvement in skin elasticity in case of all treatment methods. The largest statistically significant improvement (p < .0001) was observed in case of laser and RF, during treatment sessions, at sites at upper and lower eyelid. The smallest change in skin elasticity for the laser, RF and IPL - p = .017, p = .003 and p = .001, respectively-was observed in a site within the outer corner of the eye. In all sites of measurements and for all methods, the greatest improvement in skin elasticity was demonstrated between the first and second measurement (after 3rd procedures). The majority of the results of mexametric measurements-MEX (melanin level) and ERYT (the severity of erythema) are statistically insignificant. Fractional, non-ablative laser, non-ablation RF and intense light source can be considered as methods significantly affecting elasticity and to a lesser extent erythema and skin pigmentation around the eyes. Fractional non-ablative laser is a method which, in comparison to other methods, has the greatest impact on skin viscoelasticity. These procedures are well tolerated and are associated with a low risk of side effects.

Aloe sterol supplementation improves skin elasticity in Japanese men with sunlight-exposed skin: a 12-week double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

Background/objectiveRecently, it was confirmed that the daily oral intake of plant sterols of Aloe vera gel (Aloe sterol) significantly increases the skin barrier function, moisture, and elasticity in photoprotected skin. This study aimed to investigate whether Aloe sterol intake affected skin conditions following sunlight exposure in Japanese men.MethodsWe performed a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of oral Aloe sterol supplementation on skin conditions in 48 apparently healthy men (age range: 30–59 years; average: 45 years). The subjects were instructed to expose the measurement position of the arms to the sunlight outdoors every day for 12 weeks. The skin parameters were measured at 0 (baseline), 4, 8, and 12 weeks.ResultsDepending on the time for the revelation of the sunlight, the b* value and melanin index increased and the skin moisture decreased. After taking an Aloe sterol tablet daily for 12 weeks, the skin elasticity index (R2, R5, and R7) levels were significantly higher than the baseline value. There were no differences between the groups in these skin elasticity values. In the subgroup analysis of subjects aged <46 years, the change in the R5 and R7 was significantly higher in the Aloe group than in the placebo group at 8 weeks (P=0.0412 and P=0.0410, respectively). There was a difference in the quantity of sun exposure between each subject, and an additional clinical study that standardizes the amount of ultraviolet rays is warranted. No Aloe sterol intake-dependent harmful phenomenon was observed during the intake period.ConclusionAloe sterol ingestion increased skin elasticity in the photodamaged skin of men aged <46 years.

A single-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the efficacy and safety of “enzyme-treated red ginseng powder complex (BG11001)” for antiwrinkle and proelasticity in individuals with healthy skin

BackgroundDuring the aging process, skin shows visible changes, characterized by a loss of elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles due to reduced collagen production and decreased elasticity of elastin fibers. Panax ginseng Meyer has been used as a traditional medicine for various diseases due to its wide range of biological activities including skin protective effects. Ginsenosides are the main components responsible for the biological activities of ginseng. However, the protective activities of an enzymatic preparation of red ginseng against human skin aging have not been investigated. MethodsThe efficacy of an enzyme-treated powder complex of red ginseng (BG11001) in preventing human skin aging was evaluated by oral administration to 78 randomized individuals. All patients were requested to take three daily capsules containing either 750 mg of BG11001 or a placebo vehicle for 24 wk; at the end of the testing period, skin roughness, elasticity, and skin water content were measured. ResultsBG11001 significantly reduced the average roughness of eye wrinkles and the Global Photo Damage Score compared with the placebo, although there were no significant differences in arithmetic roughness average between the groups. In addition, gross elasticity and net elasticity values increased, and transepidermal water loss level decreased, indicating improved skin elasticity and moisture content. ConclusionIn conclusion, enzyme-treated red ginseng extract significantly improved eye wrinkle roughness, skin elasticity, and moisture content. Moreover, enzyme-treated red ginseng extract would be useful substance as a bio-health skin care product.