Effect of a novel dietary supplement on skin aging in post-menopausal women

The effect of tomato and lycopene on clinical characteristics and molecular markers of UV-induced skin deterioration: A systematic review and meta-analysis of intervention trials

Lycopene as a natural antioxidant that have been studied for ultraviolet radiation (UVR) photo protection and is one of the most effective carotenoids to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review aims to summarize the protective effect of tomato and lycopene on skin photo damage and skin photoaging in healthy subjects by reviewing the existing population intervention experiments. A total of five electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, EBSCO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library were searched from inceptions to January 2021 without any restriction. Out of 19336 publications identified, 21 fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were meta-analysis. Overall, interventions supplementing tomato and lycopene were associated with significant reductions in Δa*, MMP-1, ICAM-1 and skin pigmentation; while tomato and lycopene supplementation were associated with significant increase in MED, skin thickness and skin density. Based on the results of this systematic review and meta-analysis, supplementation with tomato and lycopene could reduce skin erythema formation and improve the appearance and pigmentation of the skin, thereby preventing light-induced skin photodamage and skin photoaging. Lycopene-rich products could be used as endogenous sun protection and may be a potential nutraceutical for sun protection.

Soy Protein Containing Isoflavones Improves Facial Signs of Photoaging and Skin Hydration in Postmenopausal Women: Results of a Prospective Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial

Preliminary findings from multiple studies indicate that dietary intake of soy-derived isoflavones exert beneficial effects on the skin including defense against oxidant damage, stimulation of collagen synthesis, and increased hydration. This study aims to investigate how oral supplementation of a soy protein isolate with added isoflavones (SPII) affects components of photoaging such as facial wrinkles and dyspigmentation, and skin biophysical measures such as skin hydration and sebum excretion in postmenopausal women. This 6-month prospective, randomized double-blind controlled study was conducted on 44 postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III who were randomized to receive either casein protein or SPII. A high-resolution facial photography system was used to measure wrinkle severity and pigmentation at 0, 8, 16, and 24 weeks. Skin biophysical measurements included skin hydration and sebum production. The average wrinkle severity was decreased in the SPII intervention group at week 16 and week 24 by 5.9% and 7.1%, respectively, compared to the baseline. Compared to the casein group, average wrinkle severity was significantly decreased at week 16 (p < 0.05) and week 24 (p < 0.0001). Facial pigment intensity was decreased by -2.5% (p < 0.05) at week 24, whereas there was no significant change in the casein group. Compared to baseline, skin hydration in the SPII group was significantly increased by 39% and 68% on the left and right cheeks (p < 0.05), respectively, at 24 weeks. There were no significant differences in sebum production. Dietary soy protein supplementation with isoflavones may improve skin photoaging, including wrinkles and dyspigmentation, and increase skin hydration in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I, II, and III.

Clinical Efficacy of Topical or Oral Soy Supplementation in Dermatology: A Systematic Review

Soybean, a legume native to Southeast Asia, serves many nutritional and medical purposes due to its rich source of phytochemicals and its antioxidant activity. Many animal and in vitro studies have demonstrated its potential impact on dermatologic health. The objective of this review is to investigate the clinical response of soy-based oral supplementation or topical application on dermatologic outcomes. A systematic review of studies assessing soy supplementation or application was performed in January 2023. Databases included PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Natural Medicines, and studies assessing any formulation that included soybean or associated products were included. Thirty studies met the inclusion criteria and are included in the review; 13 of these studies assessed oral supplementation and 17 assessed topical application. Topical and oral supplementation demonstrated efficacious results for a variety of dermatologic parameters, including chronological or photoaging parameters, skin barrier status, hydration, hyperpigmentation, dermal network composition, erythema, hair and nail parameters, acne lesion counts, and vulvar lichen sclerosis scores. Factors associated with aging, such as wrinkle area and depth, were most frequently assessed among the studies, and both topical and oral studies demonstrated efficacy. Effects are likely mediated by dermal compositional changes, such as increased collagen and/or elastic fiber numbers. Transepidermal water loss measurements, an indicator of skin barrier status, were frequently obtained among the studies, although improvement was more likely achieved with topical application compared to oral supplementation. The results of this review highlight the utility of soy-based products for a variety of dermatologic applications, although future studies are required to determine optimal formulations and application routes for intended outcomes.

Oral Supplementation and Systemic Drugs for Skin Aging: A Narrative Review

Skin aging is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors and involves multiple pathogenic mechanisms. The most widely used treatments are topical products and minimally invasive procedures. Evidence on the benefits of systemic therapy is limited for several reasons: Reliance on mostly small and predominantly female samples, short study durations, methodologic heterogeneity, and a lack of consensus on which outcome measures are clinically relevant. Furthermore, systemic drugs and oral supplements are not without adverse effects. Oral hydrolyzed collagen and oral hyaluronic acid are well tolerated, and numerous clinical trials show they can mitigate some signs of skin aging. Low-dose oral isotretinoin is another option, but it has a higher risk of adverse effects. Evidence is lacking on the effects of the many dietary supplements on offer, such as vitamins, flavonoids, plant extracts, and trace elements. The future of skin aging management would appear to lie in the use of senolytic and senomorphic agents targeting senescent cells in the skin.

[Translated article] Oral Supplementation and Systemic Drugs for Skin Aging: A Narrative Review

Skin aging is influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors and involves multiple pathogenic mechanisms. The most widely used treatments are topical products and minimally invasive procedures. Evidence on the benefits of systemic therapy is limited for several reasons: reliance on mostly small and predominantly female samples, short study durations, methodologic heterogeneity, and a lack of consensus on which outcome measures are clinically relevant. Furthermore, systemic drugs and oral supplements are not without adverse effects. Oral hydrolyzed collagen and oral hyaluronic acid are well tolerated, and numerous clinical trials show they can mitigate some signs of skin aging. Low-dose oral isotretinoin is another option, but it has a higher risk of adverse effects. Evidence is lacking on the effects of the many dietary supplements on offer, such as vitamins, flavonoids, plant extracts, and trace elements. The future of skin aging management would appear to lie in the use of senolytic and senomorphic agents targeting senescent cells in the skin.

Potential Synergistic Supplementation of NAD+ Promoting Compounds as a Strategy for Increasing Healthspan

Disrupted biological function, manifesting through the hallmarks of aging, poses one of the largest threats to healthspan and risk of disease development, such as metabolic disorders, cardiovascular ailments, and neurodegeneration. In recent years, numerous geroprotectors, senolytics, and other nutraceuticals have emerged as potential disruptors of aging and may be viable interventions in the immediate state of human longevity science. In this review, we focus on the decrease in nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) with age and the supplementation of NAD+ precursors, such as nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) or nicotinamide riboside (NR), in combination with other geroprotective compounds, to restore NAD+ levels present in youth. Furthermore, these geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NMN supplementation while concurrently providing their own numerous health benefits. By analyzing the prevention of NAD+ degradation through the inhibition of CD38 or supporting protective downstream agents of SIRT1, we provide a potential framework of the CD38/NAD+/SIRT1 axis through which geroprotectors may enhance the efficacy of NAD+ precursor supplementation and reduce the risk of age-related diseases, thereby potentiating healthspan in humans.

Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial on the Effects of Almonds on Facial Wrinkles and Pigmentation

Background: Almonds have long been studied as a rich source of fatty acids, phytochemical polyphenols and antioxidants such as vitamin E. A recent study compared almond supplementations to a calorie-matched intervention for 16 weeks, yielding statistically significant improvement in wrinkle severity in postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II that received almonds. This study furthers that assessment with a larger population and duration of 24 weeks to assess the influence of almond consumption on wrinkle severity, skin pigmentation and other skin biophysical profiles. Objective: To investigate the effects of almond consumption on photoaging such as wrinkles and pigment intensity as well as facial biophysical parameters such as sebum production, skin hydration and water loss. Design and interventions: A prospective, randomized controlled study assessed postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I or II who consumed 20% of their daily energy consumption in either almonds or a calorie-matched snack for 24 weeks. A facial photograph and image analysis system was used to obtain standardized high-resolution photographs and information on wrinkle width and severity at 0, 8, 16 and 24 weeks. Measurements of transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin pigmentation, skin hydration and sebum production were also completed at each visit. Results: The average wrinkle severity was significantly decreased in the almond intervention group at week 16 and week 24 compared to baseline by 15% and 16%, respectively. Facial pigment intensity was decreased 20% in the almond group at week 16 and this was maintained by week 24. There were no significant differences in skin hydration or TEWL in the almond group compared to the control, although sebum excretion was increased in the control group. Conclusion: The daily consumption of almonds may improve several aspects of photoaging such as facial wrinkles and pigment intensity in postmenopausal women. In conclusion, the daily consumption of almonds may contribute to the improvement of facial wrinkles and reduction of skin pigmentation among postmenopausal women with Fitzpatrick skin types I and II.

Application of green tea catechins, polysaccharides, and flavonol prevent fine dust induced bronchial damage by modulating inflammation and airway cilia

Airborne fine dust particles (FDPs) have been identified as major toxins in air pollution that threaten human respiratory health. While searching for an anti-FDP reagent, we found that green tea extract (GTE) and fractions rich in flavonol glycosides (FLGs) and crude tea polysaccharides (CTPs) had protective effects against FDP-stimulated cellular damage in the BEAS-2B airway epithelial cell line. The GTE, FLGs, and CTPs significantly increased viability and lowered oxidative stress levels in FDP-treated cells. Combined treatment with GTE, FLGs, and CTPs also exerted synergistic protective effects on cells and attenuated FDP-induced elevations in inflammatory gene expression. Moreover, the green tea components increased the proportion of ciliated cells and upregulated ciliogenesis in the airway in FDP-stimulated BEAS-2B cells. Our findings provide insights into how natural phytochemicals protect the airway and suggest that green tea could be used to reduce FDP-induced airway damage as an ingredient in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and also cosmeceutical products.

A randomized, triple-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study to evaluate the efficacy of a freshwater marine collagen on skin wrinkles and elasticity

Background

Collagen is the primary component in human skin. With age, there is loss of skin elasticity and collagen, resulting in wrinkle formation and reduction in skin appearance.

Aims

The objective of this randomized, triple‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of a hydrolyzed marine collagen (Vinh Wellness Collagen, VWC) on aspects of skin health and quality in women between 45 and 60 years of age.

Patients/Methods

Assessments of skin wrinkles, elasticity, and self‐reported appearance were conducted using the VISIA skin analysis system, Cutometer^®, and Skin Quality Visual Analogue Scale. Outcomes were assessed at weeks 0 (baseline), 6, and 12.

Results

After 12 weeks, participants supplemented with VWC had a significant 35% reduction in wrinkle score (P = .035) from baseline. Participants in the VWC group showed a 24% greater reduction in wrinkles on the right side of the face than those on placebo. A planned subgroup analysis based on age showed women 45‐54 years had a significant 20% and 10% improvement in cheek skin elasticity from baseline to week 6 (P = .016) and 12 (P = .022), respectively. At week 12, participants in the VWC group reported greater percentage improvements in overall skin score (9%) and wrinkle (15%), elasticity (23%), hydration (14%), radiance (22%), and firmness (25%) scores vs placebo.

Conclusion

Supplementation with VWC was found to be safe and well‐tolerated. The results of this study support the use of fish‐derived hydrolyzed collagen for the improvement of skin health in an aging population.

The history and basic science development of soy isoflavones

This review summarizes the 2016 NAMS/Pfizer-Wulf H. Utian Endowed Lecture that focused on the history and basic science of soy isoflavones. Described is a personal perspective of the background and history that led to the current interest in soy and isoflavones with a specific focus on the role that soy isoflavones play in the health of postmenopausal women. This overview covers the metabolism and physiological behavior of isoflavones, their biological properties that are of potential relevance to aging, issues related to the safety of soy isoflavones, and the role of the important intestinally derived metabolite S-(-)equol.

Tea Polysaccharides and Their Bioactivities

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is a beverage beneficial to health and is also a source for extracting bioactive components such as theanine, tea polyphenols (TPP) and tea polysaccharides (TPS). TPS is a group of heteropolysaccharides bound with proteins. There is evidence showing that TPS not only improves immunity but also has various bioactivities, such as antioxidant, antitumor, antihyperglycemia, and anti-inflammation. However, inconsistent results concerning chemical composition and bioactivity of TPS have been published in recent years. The advances in chemical composition and bioactivities of TPS are reviewed in the present paper. The inconsistent and controversial results regarding composition and bioactivities of TPS are also discussed.

A multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial assessing the effects of a multicomponent nutritional supplement for treating photoaged skin in healthy women

BACKGROUND

Dietary or supplementary intake of nutrients and other ingredients positively affects skin appearance.

AIMS

Evaluate a multicomponent nutritional supplement on photoaged skin.

PATIENTS/METHODS

This multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial randomized healthy 35- to 65-year-old women with Fitzpatrick skin types I-IV and Glogau classification types II-III to a multicomponent nutritional supplement or placebo for 24 weeks. The primary endpoint was Investigator Global Assessment of overall facial appearance at week 24. Secondary endpoints included investigator- and subject-rated assessments of the face, décolletage, and hands; facial photography assessments (conducted by an independent panel of dermatologists); and instrumental measures. Analysis of variance was used to assess between-group differences (P ≤ 0.05).

RESULTS

Of 194 randomized subjects, 171 completed the study. Subjects had a mean age of 53 years and were primarily white (81%), had Glogau II (58%) and Fitzpatrick III (45%; significantly more supplement subjects had Fitzpatrick III [54%] vs. placebo [35%]; P = 0.039). At week 24, Investigator Global Assessment of overall facial appearance was numerically but not statistically better for supplement over placebo (mean difference: 0.14 [95% confidence interval: -0.16-0.44]; P = 0.358). A significant treatment-by-site interaction (P = 0.073) was observed; by-site analyses revealed a significant difference at one of three geographical sites for supplement vs. placebo (P = 0.001). Differences on secondary endpoints were generally not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

In the first multicenter study conducted with this multicomponent nutritional supplement, no significantly greater effects vs. placebo were observed on the primary endpoint, perhaps because of significant between-site variability.

A placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of Imedeen(®) Time Perfection(®) for improving the appearance of photodamaged skin

Objective

To assess the efficacy of Imedeen Time Perfection for improving the appearance and condition of photoaged skin in healthy women.

Methods

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial enrolled healthy women, 35–60 years of age, with Fitzpatrick I–III and Glogau II–III skin types and mild-to-moderate facial fine lines/wrinkles. The eligible subjects were randomized to receive two tablets daily of either Imedeen Time Perfection (Imedeen) or a matching placebo for 12 weeks. Efficacy assessments included investigator rating of 16 photoaging parameters (ie, global facial appearance and 15 individual facial parameters and the average of all parameters), instrumentation (ie, ultrasound dermal density, moisture level of the stratum corneum, transepidermal water loss, cutometry), and subjects’ self-assessment. Differences in the mean change from baseline to week 12 values on these outcomes were compared between Imedeen and placebo using analysis of variance or a paired t-test.

Results

Seventy-four subjects with primarily Fitzpatrick skin type III (78%–79%) and Glogau type III (53%–58%) completed the study (Imedeen: n=36; placebo: n=38). The mean difference in change from baseline to week 12 for global facial assessment significantly favored Imedeen over placebo (−0.52; P=0.0017). Additionally, the mean differences in the average of all facial photoaging parameters (−0.29), mottled hyperpigmentation (−0.25), tactile laxity (−0.24), dullness (−0.47), and tactile roughness (−0.62) significantly favored Imedeen over placebo (P≤0.05). Significantly greater increases in ultrasound dermal density (+11% vs +1%; P≤0.05) and stratum corneum moisturization (+30% vs +6%; P≤0.05) were also observed for Imedeen than for placebo. There were no significant differences on other instrumental outcomes.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that Imedeen Time Perfection can positively affect the appearance of photoaged skin, moisturization, and skin density over 12 weeks of treatment.

Dietary Milk Sphingomyelin Prevents Disruption of Skin Barrier Function in Hairless Mice after UV-B Irradiation

Exposure to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) irradiation causes skin barrier defects. Based on earlier findings that milk phospholipids containing high amounts of sphingomyelin (SM) improved the water content of the stratum corneum (SC) in normal mice, here we investigated the effects of dietary milk SM on skin barrier defects induced by a single dose of UV-B irradiation in hairless mice. Nine week old hairless mice were orally administrated SM (146 mg/kg BW/day) for a total of ten days. After seven days of SM administration, the dorsal skin was exposed to a single dose of UV-B (20 mJ/cm²). Administration of SM significantly suppressed an increase in transepidermal water loss and a decrease in SC water content induced by UV-B irradiation. SM supplementation significantly maintained covalently-bound ω-hydroxy ceramide levels and down-regulated mRNA levels of acute inflammation-associated genes, including thymic stromal lymphopoietin, interleukin-1 beta, and interleukin-6. Furthermore, significantly higher levels of loricrin and transglutaminase-3 mRNA were observed in the SM group. Our study shows for the first time that dietary SM modulates epidermal structures, and can help prevent disruption of skin barrier function after UV-B irradiation.

Effect of orally administered collagen hydrolysate on gene expression profiles in mouse skin: a DNA microarray analysis

Dietary collagen hydrolysate has been hypothesized to improve skin barrier function. To investigate the effect of long-term collagen hydrolysate administration on the skin, we evaluated stratum corneum water content and skin elasticity in intrinsically aged mice. Female hairless mice were fed a control diet or a collagen hydrolysate-containing diet for 12 wk. Stratum corneum water content and skin elasticity were gradually decreased in chronologically aged control mice. Intake of collagen hydrolysate significantly suppressed such changes. Moreover, we used DNA microarrays to analyze gene expression in the skin of mice that had been administered collagen hydrolysate. Twelve weeks after the start of collagen intake, no significant differences appeared in the gene expression profile compared with the control group. However, 1 wk after administration, 135 genes were upregulated and 448 genes were downregulated in the collagen group. This suggests that gene changes preceded changes of barrier function and elasticity. We focused on several genes correlated with functional changes in the skin. Gene Ontology terms related to epidermal cell development were significantly enriched in upregulated genes. These skin function-related genes had properties that facilitate epidermal production and differentiation while suppressing dermal degradation. In conclusion, our results suggest that altered gene expression at the early stages after collagen administration affects skin barrier function and mechanical properties. Long-term oral intake of collagen hydrolysate improves skin dysfunction by regulating genes related to production and maintenance of skin tissue.

Soy Isoflavone Glycitin (4'-Hydroxy-6-Methoxyisoflavone-7-D-Glucoside) Promotes Human Dermal Fibroblast Cell Proliferation and Migration via TGF-β Signaling

Glycitin is a soy isoflavone that exhibits antioxidant, antiallergic, and anti-osteoporosis activities. We investigated the effects of glycitin on dermal fibroblast proliferation and migration. Treatment of primary dermal fibroblasts with glycitin increased cell proliferation and migration. In addition, treatment with 20 μM glycitin for 24 h induced the synthesis of collagen type I and type III at both the mRNA and protein levels. Fibronectin was also increased by 20% after treatment. Matrix metalloproteinase-1 collagenase was decreased in the media after 24-h incubation with glycitin, and the synthesis of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) mRNA increased approximately twofold in cells following glycitin treatment. Phosphorylation of Smad2 and Smad3 increased after 1 h of glycitin treatment, and phosphorylation continued for 24 h. Furthermore, the phosphorylated form of AKT was increased in glycitin-treated cells after 3 h and remained higher for 24 h. Thus, glycitin treatment produces anti-aging effects including increased total collagen in the culture media, decreased elastase, and decreased β-galactosidase. Together, these results indicate that glycitin stimulates TGF-β secretion, and the subsequent autocrine actions of TGF-β induce proliferation of fibroblasts, ultimately protecting skin cells from aging and wrinkling.

Can dietary intake influence perception of and measured appearance? A systematic review

Appearance-based interventions have had some success in reducing smoking and sun exposure. Appearance may also motivate dietary behavior change if it was established that dietary improvement had a positive impact on appearance. The aims of this review are to evaluate the current evidence examining the relationship between dietary intake and appearance and to determine the effectiveness of dietary interventions on perceived or actual appearance. An electronic search of English-language studies up to August 2012 was conducted using Cochrane, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and PsycINFO databases. Studies that included participants aged at least 18 years, that observed or altered dietary intake from actual food or dietary supplement use, and assessed appearance-related outcomes were considered eligible. Data from 27 studies were extracted and assessed for quality using standardized tools. Nineteen studies were assessed as being of "positive" and 4 of "neutral" quality. All observational studies (n = 4741 participants) indicated that there was a significant association between various aspects of dietary intake and skin coloration and skin aging. The majority (16 studies, 769 participants) evaluated the effect of dietary supplements on skin appearance among women. Only 1 study examined the effect of actual food intake on appearance. Significant improvements in at least 1 actual or perceived appearance-related outcome (facial wrinkling, skin elasticity, roughness, and skin color) following dietary intervention were shown as a result of supplementation. Further studies are needed in representative populations that examine actual food intake on appearance, using validated tools in well-designed high-quality randomized control trials.

Collagen hydrolysate intake improves the loss of epidermal barrier function and skin elasticity induced by UVB irradiation in hairless mice

BACKGROUND

Ultraviolet B (UVB) irradiation induces serious damage to the skin. Collagen hydrolysate and collagen-derived peptides have effects on skin function in vivo and in vitro. However, few studies have investigated changes in the epidermal barrier or dermal elasticity caused by UVB. Here, we investigated the loss of epidermal barrier function and skin elasticity induced by UVB irradiation in hairless mice fed collagen hydrolysate.

METHODS

Mice were orally administered collagen hydrolysate, in a single dose (20 mJ/cm(2) ) or repeated doses (10-30 mJ/cm(2) , 3 times/week for 6 weeks), and the dorsal skin was exposed to UVB. Skin measurements and histological and analytical studies were performed.

RESULTS

In control mice, a single UVB irradiation induced epidermal barrier dysfunction including an increase in transepidermal water loss (TEWL), epidermal hyperplasia, and a decrease in stratum corneum water content. Administration of collagen hydrolysate significantly decreased TEWL and epidermal thickness and increased stratum corneum water content. Repeated UVB irradiation decreased skin elasticity and dermal hyaluronic acid (HA) content in control mice, whereas collagen hydrolysate significantly suppressed both the increase in TEWL and the decrease in stratum corneum water content and improved skin elasticity and dermal HA content.

CONCLUSIONS

Collagen hydrolysate administration affects epidermal barrier function and dermal skin elasticity.

Histological investigation of the effect of soybean (Glycine max) extracts on the collagen layer and estrogen receptors in the skin of female rats

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of soybean extracts obtained using different extraction methods on the skin of female rats.

METHOD

A total of 64 female Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into 8 equal groups. Various extracts were administered to the female rats by oral gavage for one month. The groups comprised carboxymethyl cellulose-free control, carboxymethyl cellulose-plus control, 100-mg/kg n-hexane extract, 200-mg/kg n-hexane extract, 100-mg/kg ethyl acetate extract, 200-mg/kg ethyl acetate extract, 100-mg/kg ethanol extract and 200-mg/kg ethanol extract groups. The thickness of the collagen layer and the number of estrogen receptor-positive cells were evaluated.

RESULTS

All the extract-treated groups showed a statistically significant decrease in the number of estrogen receptor-positive cells compared with the control groups. Regarding the thickness of the collagen layer, only the 200-mg/kg ethyl acetate extract-treated group showed a significant increase compared with the control groups (p<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that oral intake of three different total soybean extracts might have positive estrogenic effects on the skin and that only a high-dose ethyl acetate extract can increase the expression of collagen, which may prove to be beneficial for postmenopausal facial skin.

Wrinkle reduction in post-menopausal women consuming a novel oral supplement: a double-blind placebo-controlled randomized study

Objective

The maintenance of youthful skin appearance is strongly desired by a large proportion of the world's population. The aim of the present study was therefore to evaluate the effect on skin wrinkling, of a combination of ingredients reported to influence key factors involved in skin ageing, namely inflammation, collagen synthesis and oxidative/UV stress. A supplemented drink was developed containing soy isoflavones, lycopene, vitamin C and vitamin E and given to post-menopausal women with a capsule containing fish oil.

Method

We have performed a double-blind randomized controlled human clinical study to assess whether this cocktail of dietary ingredients can significantly improve the appearance of facial wrinkles.

Results

We have shown that this unique combination of micronutrients can significantly reduce the depth of facial wrinkles and that this improvement is associated with increased deposition of new collagen fibres in the dermis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that consumption of a mixture of soy isoflavones, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin E and fish oil is able to induce a clinically measureable improvement in the depth of facial wrinkles following long-term use. We have also shown, for the first time with an oral product, that the improvement is associated with increased deposition of new collagen fibres in the dermis.

Résumé

Marine-derived nutrient improves epidermal and dermal structure and prolongs the life span of reconstructed human skin equivalents

INTRODUCTION

Imedeen™ is a cosmeceutical that provides nutrients to the skin. One of its active ingredients is the Marine Complex™ (MC).

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether MC affects skin morphogenesis differently in female and male human skin equivalents (HSEs).

METHODS

Human skin equivalents were established with cells obtained from female or male donors between 30 and 45 years of age and cultured for seven or 11 weeks in the presence or absence of MC. Using immunohistochemistry, we examined early differentiation by keratin 10 expression, (hyper)proliferation by keratin 17 and Ki67, and basement membrane composition by laminin 332 and collagen type VII. In addition, the expression of collagen type I and the secretion of pro-collagen I were measured.

RESULTS

Marine Complex strongly increased the number of Ki67-positive epidermal cells in female HSEs. In the dermis, MC significantly stimulated the amount of secreted pro-collagen I and increased the deposition of laminin 332 and collagen type VII. Furthermore, MC prolonged the viable phase of HSEs by slowing down its natural degradation. After 11 weeks of culturing, the MC-treated HSEs showed higher numbers of viable epidermal cell layers and a thicker dermal extracellular matrix compared with controls. In contrast, these effects were less pronounced in male HSEs.

CONCLUSION

The MC nutrient positively stimulated overall HSE tissue formation and prolonged the longevity of both female and male HSEs. The ability of MC to stimulate the deposition of basement membrane and dermal components can be used to combat 2 human skin aging in vivo.

The effects of natural S-equol supplementation on skin aging in postmenopausal women: a pilot randomized placebo-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the natural S-equol supplement on skin aging in equol-nonproducing Japanese postmenopausal women.

METHODS

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial examined the use of the natural S-equol supplement for 12 weeks in 101 postmenopausal Japanese women who were equol nonproducers. They were randomly assigned to one of three groups: placebo (n = 34), 10 mg S-equol/day (EQL10; n = 34), or 30 mg S-equol/day (EQL30; n = 33). Skin parameters of crow's-feet wrinkles (area and depth), hydration, transepidermal water loss, and elasticity were measured at baseline and at monthly intervals during treatment. Vaginal cytology, endometrial thickness, and mammography were performed before and after treatment. Serum hormone concentrations were measured at the same time as skin parameters.

RESULTS

The EQL10 and EQL30 groups showed significant reductions in wrinkle area compared with the placebo group (P < 0.05). There was a significant difference in wrinkle depth between the placebo group and the EQL30 group (P < 0.05). Other skin parameters did not show significant differences after the treatment in any group. There were no abnormal results in hormone status or gynecological examinations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that natural S-equol supplementation (EQL10 and EQL30) may have a beneficial effect on crow's-feet wrinkles in postmenopausal women without serious adverse events.

Genistein aglycone, a soy-derived isoflavone, improves skin changes induced by ovariectomy in rats

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Ovariectomy accelerates age-related skin changes as adequate oestrogen levels are required to control structural integrity and functional capacity of skin. Genistein, a soy-derived isoflavone, has been tested in anti-ageing cosmetic preparations with interesting results on skin elasticity, photoaging and skin cancer prevention. We investigated the effects of genistein aglycone and compared them with systemic raloxifene hydrochloride and 17-α-ethinyloestradiol on skin changes in aged, ovariectomized (OVX) rats.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Six months after ovariectomy, rats were randomly allocated to different groups and treated, daily, with genistein aglycone (1 and 10mg·kg(-1) s.c.), raloxifene hydrochloride (0.05 and 0.5mg·kg(-1) s.c.) or 17-α-ethinyloestradiol (0.003 and 0.03mg·kg(-1) s.c.) for 12 weeks. Controls were untreated OVX and sham OVX rats. At the end of the treatment period, a skin biopsy was carried out and skin samples were assessed for molecular, histological and functional changes.

KEY RESULTS

Skin samples of untreated OVX rats showed a decrease in TGF-β1, VEGF, MMP-2, MMP-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1 and TIMP-2 compared with sham OVX rats. All the treatments significantly restored this depressed molecular profile revealed in OVX rats. Genistein aglycone, 1mg·kg(-1) , also significantly increased the thickness of collagen and breaking strength of skin in the OVX rats.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS

Relatively long-term, systemic treatment with genistein aglycone shows comparable efficacy to oestrogen in reversing some molecular, histological and functional changes of the skin associated with ovariectomy in aged rats. This suggests that genistein aglycone might be an effective alternative therapy for the management of age-related skin changes in postmenopausal women.

Clinical, biometric and ultrasound assessment of the effects of daily use of a nutraceutical composed of lycopene, acerola extract, grape seed extract and Biomarine Complex in photoaged human skin

BACKGROUND: The use of nutraceuticals has become frequent in the cutaneous approach to photoaging. OBJECTIVES: To assess the clinical efficacy of a nutraceutical product composed of lycopene, acerola extract, grape seed extract and Biomarine ComplexT in photoaged human skin. METHODS: 50 women, from 35 to 60 years of age, phototypes I to III, were assessed. For 120 days, they associated the nutraceutical product with the use of a sunscreen FPS15. On days 0 (D0), 30 (D30), 60 (D60), 90 (D90) and 120 (D120) they were evaluated and underwent Medical Assessments and Self-Assessment and cutaneous biometric analyses (corneometry, sebumetry and pH-metry) in the skin of the left zygomatic region and the upper medial side region of the left arm; on days 0 (D0), 30 (D30) and 120 (D120) the skin of the same regions was analyzed by ultrasound. On days 0 (D0) and 120 (D120) skin biopsies were performed in the areas where instrumental evaluation was performed (to evaluate collagen and elastic fibers). RESULTS: There was an improvement of the general status of the skin of all volunteers by the Medical and Volunteer Self- Assessments; increased parameters of cutaneous hydration, reduction of pH, increasing of ultrasound density and a histological increment of collagen and elastic fibers (both on the face and arm); there was a reduction of seborrhea (only on the face) CONCLUSIONS: The daily use of a nutraceutical product containing lycopene, acerola extract, grape seed extract and Biomarine ComplexT showed an important adjuvant effect to counteract skin photoaging.

Collagen hydrolysate intake increases skin collagen expression and suppresses matrix metalloproteinase 2 activity

The effect of daily ingestion of collagen hydrolysate (CH) on skin extracellular matrix proteins was investigated. Four-week-old male Wistar rats were fed a modified AIN-93 diet containing 12% casein as the reference group or CH as the treatment group. A control group was established in which animals were fed a non-protein-modified AIN-93 diet. The diets were administered continuously for 4 weeks when six fresh skin samples from each group were assembled and subjected to extraction of protein. Type I and IV collagens were studied by immunoblot, and activities of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 2 and 9 were assessed by zymography. The relative amount of type I and IV collagens was significantly (P < .05) increased after CH intake compared with the reference diet group (casein). Moreover, CH uptake significantly decreased both proenzyme and active forms of MMP2 compared with casein and control groups (P < .05). In contrast, CH ingestion did not influence on MMP9 activity. These results suggest that CH may reduce aging-related changes of the extracellular matrix by stimulating anabolic processes in skin tissue.

An oral nutraceutical containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans improves skin roughness and fine wrinkles

Various nutraceuticals (dietary supplements) are claimed to have cutaneous antiageing properties, however, there are a limited number of research studies supporting these claims. The objective of this research was to study the effectiveness of an oral nutraceutical containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans on cutaneous ageing. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 60 women aged 35-60 years were randomized to receive oral dietary supplement (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30), once daily for 12 weeks. The depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles were measured using surface evaluation of skin parameters for living skin (Visioscan) at baseline, and at the 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment. Surface evaluation using a replica film (Visiometer) at baseline and at the 12th week of treatment was also carried out. Statistical differences in objective skin improvement were assessed by the independent t-test. The volunteers' satisfaction was tested using the chi-squared test. The baseline depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles in the treatment group and the placebo group were 100.5 and 100 mum, respectively. At the end of the study, the depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles in the treatment group showed a 21.2% improvement, whereas improvement in the control group was 1.7%. This difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). With regard to the volunteers' satisfaction, there was no statistically significant decrease in the homogenization of skin colour, however, a statistically significant reduction in pore size and depth of skin roughness and fine wrinkles were observed (P < 0.05). No side effects were noted throughout the study. The oral dietary supplement containing antioxidants, minerals and glycosaminoglycans improved skin roughness and fine wrinkles but did not affect skin colour change in female volunteers.

Less-known botanical cosmeceuticals

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has become increasingly popular in the United States during the last 10-15 years. The use of oral and topical supplements falls within this framework. Most oral and topical supplements are based on or include several botanical ingredients, many of which have long histories of traditional or folk medicine usage. Several of the available products derived from botanical sources are touted for their dermatologic benefits. The focus in this discussion will be on a select group of botanical compounds that have been used for dermatologic purposes or show promise for such applications, including: rosemary, polypodium leucotomos, propolis, oatmeal, olive oil, grape seed extract, lavender, mushrooms, and coffeeberry. Other more commonly used products of botanical origin, such as arnica, bromelain, caffeine, chamomile, ferulic acid, feverfew, green tea, licorice, pomegranate, and resveratrol, are also briefly considered.

Supplementation with a complex of active nutrients improved dermal and epidermal characteristics in skin equivalents generated from fibroblasts from young or aged donors

Cultured skin equivalent (SE, Mimeskin) was generated by co-culturing skin fibroblasts and keratinocytes on a collagen-glycosaminoglycan-chitosan dermal substrate. In order to examine donor age effect, fibroblasts from 19- (young) or 49- (aged) year-old females were used. Culture medium was supplemented with nutrients complex containing soy extract, tomato extract, grape seed extract, white tea extract, sodium ascorbate, tocopherol acetate, zinc gluconate and BioMarine complex. Epidermal and dermal structure and composition were examined after 42 and 60 days of culture. In untreated samples, SE generated from young fibroblasts was superior to SE from aged fibroblasts in all characteristics. Those include number and regularity of keratinocyte layers, number of keratinocytes expressing proliferation marker Ki67, content of collagen type I, fibrillin-1, elastin, and SE lifespan. Effects of nutritional supplementation were observed in SE from both young and aged fibroblasts, however, those effects were more pronounced in SE from aged fibroblasts. In epidermis, the treatment increased number of keratinocyte layers and delayed epidermal senescence. The number of cells expressing Ki67 was nine folds higher than those of controls, and was similar to that of young cell SE. In dermis, the treatment increased mRNA synthesis of collagen I, fibrillin-1 and elastin. In conclusion, skin cell donor age had major important effect on formation of reconstructed SE. Imperfections in epidermal and dermal structure and composition as well as life span in SE from aged cells can be improved by supplementation with active nutrients.