Fernblock Prevents Dermal Cell Damage Induced by Visible and Infrared A Radiation

The effect of Fernblock® in preventing blue-light-induced oxidative stress and cellular damage in retinal pigment epithelial cells is associated with NRF2 induction

Blue light exposure of the ocular apparatus is currently rising. This has motivated a growing concern about potential deleterious effects on different eye structures. To address this, ARPE-19 cells were used as a model of the retinal pigment epithelium and subjected to cumulative expositions of blue light. The most relevant cellular events previously associated with blue-light-induced damage were assessed, including alterations in cell morphology, viability, cell proliferation, oxidative stress, inflammation, and the induction of DNA repair cellular mechanisms. Consistent with previous reports, our results provide evidence of cellular alterations resulting from repeated exposure to blue light irradiation. In this context, we explored the potential protective properties of the vegetal extract from Polypodium leucotomos, Fernblock® (FB), using the widely known treatment with lutein as a reference for comparison. The only changes observed as a result of the sole treatment with either FB or lutein were a slight but significant increase in γH2AX+ cells and the raise in the nuclear levels of NRF2. Overall, our findings indicate that the treatment with FB (similarly to lutein) prior to blue light irradiation can alleviate blue-light-induced deleterious effects in RPE cells, specifically preventing the drop in both cell viability and percentage of EdU+ cells, as well as the increase in ROS generation, percentage of γH2AX+ nuclei (more efficiently with FB), and TNF-α secretion (the latter restored only by FB to similar levels to those of the control). On the contrary, the induction in the P21 expression upon blue light irradiation was not prevented neither by FB nor by lutein. Notably, the nuclear translocation of NRF2 induced by blue light was similar to that observed in cells pre-treated with FB, while lutein pre-treatment resulted in nuclear NRF2 levels similar to control cells, suggesting key differences in the mechanism of cellular protection exerted by these compounds. These results may represent the foundation ground for the use of FB as a new ingredient in the development of alternative prophylactic strategies for blue-light-associated diseases, a currently rising medical interest.

Awareness of sun exposure risks and photoprotection for preventing pigmentary disorders in Asian populations: Survey results from three Asian countries and expert panel recommendations

BACKGROUND

In this article, we review and discuss the photoprotection behavior of Asians based on the literature, along with a subanalysis of an original online survey, and make recommendations to optimize photoprotection for Asian populations to prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

METHODS

An international panel of eight dermatologists from Asia (China, Korea, Japan, Singapore, Indonesia, and Vietnam) met to discuss sunscreen photoprotection for Asian patients. Additionally, a subanalysis of an online survey by 3000 respondents from three Asian countries (China, Indonesia, and Japan) investigated general public awareness and attitudes to sun exposure.

RESULTS

A pre-meeting survey of the eight experts from Asia showed key concerns of Asian patients consulting dermatologists are pigmentary disorders, especially actinic/senile lentigo, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, vitiligo, and Hori's nevus. The survey subanalysis of participants from China, Indonesia, and Japan with predominantly Fitzpatrick skin types (FST) II to IV revealed that they are particularly concerned about sun exposure causing photoaging and pigmentary disorders. Most of the respondents indicated they have limited knowledge on sunlight radiation and appropriate sunscreen protection factors. Only 22%, 13%, and 3% for China, Indonesia, and Japan, respectively, systematically use multiple protective measures (using sunscreen, avoiding midday sun, staying in the shade, wearing a hat, protective clothing, and sunglasses) when exposed to the sun.

CONCLUSIONS

Further education is needed for Asian populations on the importance of comprehensive daily photoprotection, including broad-spectrum sunscreen, with high UVA and visible light protection, to reduce and prevent photoaging and pigmentary disorders.

The Emerging Role of Visible Light in Melanocyte Biology and Skin Pigmentary Disorders: Friend or Foe?

Electromagnetic radiation, notably visible light (VL), has complicated effects on human skin, particularly pigmentation, which have been largely overlooked. In this review, we discuss the photobiological mechanisms, pathological effects, clinical applications and therapeutic strategies of VL at varying wavelengths on melanocyte biology and skin pigmentary disorders. Different VL wavelengths may impose positive or negative effects, depending on their interactions with specific chromophores, photoaging, ROS production, circadian rhythm and other photon-mediated reactions. Further in vivo and in vitro studies are required to establish the pathologic mechanisms and application principles of VL in pigmentary disorders, as well as optimal photoprotection with coverage against VL wavelengths.

Evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of combined oral and topical photoprotection with a standardized extract of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock®) in a Moroccan population with xeroderma pigmentosum

BACKGROUND

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal-recessive genodermatosis resulting from a DNA-repair defect syndrome. The purpose was to evaluate the prevention on new malignant lesions in patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® (Polypodium leucotomos extract [PLE]) and secondarily correlation with the photoprotective behavior.

METHODS

A prospective, single-center and open cohort study was conducted over a 12-month period. The study was performed in Morocco. Optimal photoprotection behavior was recommended. Patients were instructed to take one capsule containing 480 mg of Fernblock® and 5 mcg vitamin D and to apply sunscreen with a SPF50+ and Fernblock® every 2 h during sun exposure. The demographic, clinical, and dermatoscopic patient data were collected at baseline (T0) and following visits at 3 months (T3), 6 months (T6), and 12 months (T12) when it was assessed: Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), Patient/Guardian Global Assessment (PGA), Patient/Guardian Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Photographic and Adverse Events Registration. Pertinent statistical study was performed.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients completed the study. Eleven patients (61%) finished the study without new lesions. Seven patients developed new lesions by the end of the study. Among them, only 30% showed an ideal photoprotective behavior. The lack of an optimal photoprotective behavior increased the probability of developing lesions by 2.5 times with 95% confidence interval.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, more than 60% of patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® did not develop new lesions, and furthermore, we detected that patients following almost ideal photoprotection were 2.5 times less likely to develop NMSC lesions.

Clinical Applications of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock®): An Update

Exposure to sun radiation leads to higher risk of sunburn, pigmentation, immunosuppression, photoaging and skin cancer. In addition to ultraviolet radiation (UVR), recent research indicates that infrared radiation (IR) and visible light (VIS) can play an important role in the pathogenesis of some of these processes. Detrimental effects associated with sun exposure are well known, but new studies have shown that DNA damage continues to occur long after exposure to solar radiation has ended. Regarding photoprotection strategies, natural substances are emerging for topical and oral photoprotection. In this sense, Fernblock^®, a standardized aqueous extract of the fern Polypodium Leucotomos (PLE), has been widely administered both topically and orally with a strong safety profile. Thus, this extract has been used extensively in clinical practice, including as a complement to photodynamic therapy (PDT) for treating actinic keratoses (AKs) and field cancerization. It has also been used to treat skin diseases such as photodermatoses, photoaggravated inflammatory conditions and pigmentary disorders. This review examines the most recent developments in the clinical application of Fernblock^® and assesses how newly investigated action mechanisms may influence its clinical use.

Uses of Polypodium leucotomos Extract in Oncodermatology

The effects of UV radiation on the skin and its damage mechanisms are well known. New modalities of exogenous photoprotection have been studied. It was demonstrated that Polypodium leucotomos extract acts as an antioxidant, photoprotectant, antimutagenic, anti-inflammatory, and immunoregulator. It is effective when taken orally and/or applied topically to support the prevention of skin cancers. It also has an important role in preventing photoaging. This review aims to report the mechanisms through which Polypodium leucotomos acts and to analyze its uses in oncodermatology with references to in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, alternative uses in non-neoplastic diseases, such as pigmentary disorders, photosensitivity, and atopic dermatitis, have been considered.

Biotechnological Approaches to Producing Natural Antioxidants: Anti-Ageing and Skin Longevity Prospects

Plants are the main source of bioactive compounds that can be used for the formulation of cosmetic products. Plant extracts have numerous proven health benefits, among which are anti-ageing and skin-care properties. However, with the increased demand for plant-derived cosmetic products, there is a crucial prerequisite for establishing alternative approaches to conventional methods to ensure sufficient biomass for sustainable production. Plant tissue culture techniques, such as in vitro root cultures, micropropagation, or callogenesis, offer the possibility to produce considerable amounts of bioactive compounds independent of external factors that may influence their production. This production can also be significantly increased with the implementation of other biotechnological approaches such as elicitation, metabolic engineering, precursor and/or nutrient feeding, immobilization, and permeabilization. This work aimed to evaluate the potential of biotechnological tools for producing bioactive compounds, with a focus on bioactive compounds with anti-ageing properties, which can be used for the development of green-label cosmeceutical products. In addition, some examples demonstrating the use of plant tissue culture techniques to produce high-value bioactive ingredients for cosmeceutical applications are also addressed, showing the importance of these tools and approaches for the sustainable production of plant-derived cosmetic products.

Antioxidant and photoprotective potential of Polypodium leucotomos

In recent years, Polypodium leucotomos has emerged with a great interest for having medicinal and therapeutic potential. It is producing very promising results due to the presence of antioxidant and photoprotective properties. Electronic libraries and databases, including Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Web of Science were searched to identify relevant studies; 79 publications contributed to this review regarding Polypodium leucotomos botanical aspects, chemical composition, antioxidant and photoprotective activity. It is used in complementary and alternative therapies with various pharmaceutical dosage forms (systemic or topical). Thanks to the composition of phytochemical constituents present in the leaves and rhizomes which confer antioxidant and photoprotective activity that has clinical therapeutic potential to be used as systemic and topical sunscreen of natural origin for the prevention of different types of skin diseases caused by harmful ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B radiations. However, more studies are needed in the future to test the ability and enhance the capacity of sunscreen and sunblock in cosmetic formulations. To conclude, it is recommended to carry out scientific studies based on different analytical methods to evaluate the phytoconstituents potential and to develop stable pharmaceutical formulations according to the skin phototype.

Ultraviolet Light Protection: Is It Really Enough?

Our current understanding of the pathogenesis of skin aging includes the role of ultraviolet light, visible light, infrared, pollution, cigarette smoke and other environmental exposures. The mechanism of action common to these exposures is the disruption of the cellular redox balance by the directly or indirectly increased formation of reactive oxygen species that overwhelm the intrinsic antioxidant defense system, resulting in an oxidative stress condition. Altered redox homeostasis triggers downstream pathways that contribute to tissue oxinflammation (cross-talk between inflammation and altered redox status) and accelerate skin aging. In addition, both ultraviolet light and pollution increase intracellular free iron that catalyzes reactive oxygen species generation via the Fenton reaction. This disruption of iron homeostasis within the cell further promotes oxidative stress and contributes to extrinsic skin aging. More recent studies have demonstrated that iron chelators can be used topically and can enhance the benefits of topically applied antioxidants. Thus, an updated, more comprehensive approach to environmental or atmospheric aging protection should include sun protective measures, broad spectrum sunscreens, antioxidants, chelating agents, and DNA repair enzymes.

Effects of visible light on mechanisms of skin photoaging

Human skin is not only affected by ultraviolet radiation but also by visible light wavelengths emitted by sunlight, electronic devices, and light emitting diodes. Similar to the ultraviolet radiation, visible light has been implicated in photoaging. In this review, the effects of blue light, yellow light, red light, and broad visible light are discussed in relation with photoaging. Different visible light wavelengths likely contribute beneficial and deleterious effects on photoaging by way of interaction with specific photoreceptors, ROS production, and other photon-mediated reactions. Further in vivo studies are needed to determine the mechanism and action spectrum of photoaging in humans, as well as optimal photoprotection with coverage against visible light wavelengths.

Expert Recommendations on the Evaluation of Sunscreen Efficacy and the Beneficial Role of Non-filtering Ingredients

A variety of non-filtering agents have been introduced to enhance sunscreen photoprotection. Most of those agents have only weak erythema protective properties but may be valuable and beneficial in supporting protection against other effects of UV radiation, such as photoimmunosuppression, skin aging, and carcinogenesis, as well as photodermatoses. The question arises how to measure and evaluate this efficacy since standard SPF testing is not appropriate. In this perspective, we aim to provide a position statement regarding the actual value of SPF and UVA-PF to measure photoprotection. We argue whether new or additional parameters and scales can be used to better indicate the protection conferred by these products against the detrimental effects of natural/artificial, UV/visible light beyond sunburn, including DNA damage, photoimmunosuppression and pigmentation, and the potential benefits of the addition of other ingredients beyond traditional inorganic and organic filters to existing sunscreens. Also, we debate the overall usefulness of adding novel parameters that measure photoprotection to reach two tiers of users, that is, the general public and the medical community; and how this can be communicated to convey the presence of additional beneficial effects deriving from non-filtering agents, e.g., biological extracts. Finally, we provide a perspective on new challenges stemming from environmental factors, focusing on the role of the skin microbiome and the role of air pollutants and resulting needs for photoprotection.

Cosmeceutical Therapy: Engaging the Repercussions of UVR Photoaging on the Skin's Circadian Rhythm

Sunlight is an important factor in regulating the central circadian rhythm, including the modulation of our sleep/wake cycles. Sunlight had also been discovered to have a prominent influence on our skin's circadian rhythm. Overexposure or prolonged exposure to the sun can cause skin photodamage, such as the formation of irregular pigmentation, collagen degradation, DNA damage, and even skin cancer. Hence, this review will be looking into the detrimental effects of sunlight on our skin, not only at the aspect of photoaging but also at its impact on the skin's circadian rhythm. The growing market trend of natural-product-based cosmeceuticals as also caused us to question their potential to modulate the skin's circadian rhythm. Questions about how the skin's circadian rhythm could counteract photodamage and how best to maximize its biopotential will be discussed in this article. These discoveries regarding the skin's circadian rhythm have opened up a completely new level of understanding of our skin's molecular mechanism and may very well aid cosmeceutical companies, in the near future, to develop better products that not only suppress photoaging but remain effective and relevant throughout the day.

Formation of Cyclobutane Pyrimidine Dimers after UVA Exposure (Dark-CPDs) Is Inhibited by an Hydrophilic Extract of Polypodium leucotomos

Exposure to sun and especially to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exerts well known detrimental effects on skin which are implicated in malignancy. UVR induces production of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs), immediately during exposure and even hours after the exposure, these latter being called dark-CPDs, as consequence of the effects of different reactive species that are formed. Fernblock^® (FB), an aqueous extract of Polypodium leucotomos, has proven to have photoprotective and antioxidant effects on skin. The aim of our work was to investigate the potential photoprotective effect of FB against dark-CPD formation. Murine melanocytes (B16-F10) were exposed to UVA radiation and the production of dark-CPDs and different reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS) was measured. Significant dark-CPD formation could be seen at 3 h after UVA irradiation, which was inhibited by the pre-treatment of cells with FB. Formation of nitric oxide, superoxide and peroxynitrite was increased after irradiation, consistent with the increased CPD formation. FB successfully reduced the production of these reactive species. Hence, these results show how dark-CPDs are formed in UVA irradiated melanocytes, and that FB acts as a potential antioxidant and ROS scavenger, preventing the DNA damage induced by sun exposure.

The potential effect of Polypodium leucotomos extract on ultraviolet- and visible light-induced photoaging

Photoaging induced by both ultraviolet and visible light has been shown to lead to increased inflammation and dysregulation of the extracellular matrix. Standardized extract of the Polypodium leucotomos fern, PLE, possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and has been shown to potentially mitigate photoaging through various mechanisms. This comprehensive review presents the data available on the effects of P. leucotomos extract on UV and VL-induced photoaging in vitro as well as in vivo in murine and human models.

Photoprotection of the Skin from Visible Light‒Induced Pigmentation: Current Testing Methods and Proposed Harmonization

Visible light (VL) can induce pigmentary alterations, especially in dark-skinned individuals, and exacerbate photodermatoses and pigmentary disorders. Currently, there is no standardized method for assessing sunscreen protection against VL. On the basis of a critical review of published in vitro and in vivo methods, a VL photoprotection assessment method based on pigmentation is proposed.

Systemic photoprotection in 2021

Systemic photoprotection aims to negate the negative effects of ultraviolet radiation-induced DNA damage. Systemic supplements may be used as a monotherapy or in combination with topical sunscreens. Using the keywords 'carotenoids', 'flavonoids', 'systemic photoprotection', 'polyphenols' and 'polypodium leucotomos extract', we searched the databases MEDLINE and EMBASE to find relevant English-language articles. Few trials have supported the use of any of these supplements as monotherapy, impeding the recommendation of these systemic supplements as an alternative to sunscreen for photoprotection. Nicotinamide has exhibited clinically relevant benefits in reducing nonmelanoma skin cancers in trials and could be recommended as an adjunctive therapy for the most vulnerable indviduals. Further research is required, which needs to be of higher statistical power, using more clinically meaningful outcome measures with comparison to the current gold standard of care (topical photoprotection) to support the use of alternative therapies in clinical practice.

The Aqueous Extract of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock®) Regulates Opsin 3 and Prevents Photooxidation of Melanin Precursors on Skin Cells Exposed to Blue Light Emitted from Digital Devices

The effects of sun exposure on the skin and specifically those related to pigmentation disorders are well known. It has recently been shown that blue light leads to the induction of oxidative stress and long-lasting pigmentation. The protective effect of an aqueous extract of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock^®) is known. Our aim was to investigate the action mechanism of Fernblock^® against pigmentation induced by blue light from digital devices. Human fibroblasts (HDF) and murine melanocytes (B16-F10) were exposed to artificial blue light (a 400–500 nm LED lamp). Cell viability, mitochondrial morphology, and the expression of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) p38, known markers involved in the melanogenesis pathway, were evaluated. The activation of Opsin-3, a membrane protein sensitive to blue light that triggers the activation of the enzyme tyrosinase responsible for melanogenesis in melanocytes, was also analyzed. Our results demonstrated that pretreatment with Fernblock^® prevents cell death, alteration of mitochondrial morphology, and phosphorylation of p38 in HDF exposed to blue light. In addition, Fernblock^® significantly reduced the activation of Opsin-3 in melanocytes and the photo-oxidation of melanin, preventing its photodegradation. In sum, Fernblock^® exerts beneficial effects against the detrimental impact of blue light from digital devices and could prevent early photoaging, while maintaining skin homeostasis.

In vivo determination of the Infrared-A protection factor on human skin

BACKGROUND

Chronic exposure to infrared A (IR-A) irradiation causes photoaging. However, daily or acute exposure to IR-A rarely induces erythema or pigmentation. Thus, evaluation of the physiological changes taking place on the skin surface is insufficient for clinical investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We fabricated a novel device to obtain the IR-A protection factor (IPF) on human skin. This device consists of an artificial light source that mimics the actual IR-A intensity of sunlight, and a spectrophotometer to measure the spectral reflectance on the skin surface. The IPF can be determined by measuring the difference in spectral reflectance on the skin before and after the use of products and can be verified by the statistical criterion. A validation study was performed using different light intensities and two experimenters. Finally, we monitored the IPF on 12 commercial cosmetics.

RESULTS

After considering the IPF and L*-values, we selected the optimal sample and performed a validation study. Neither the intensity of IR-A irradiation or the experimenters significantly affected the IPF. 12 commercial products exhibited their own IPF values and were verified by statistical criteria, with one exception.

CONCLUSION

The present IPF evaluation method was concluded to be robust and reliable. This method is simple and safe for the subjects, and could be helpful for the development of IR-A protection products and the confirmation of product performances.

Dermatologic Applications of Polypodium leucotomos: A Literature Review

BACKGROUND: Polypodium leucotomos (PL) is a natural extract from tropical fern leaves with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been implicated as a potential treatment agent in multiple dermatologic conditions. OBJECTIVE: Here, we review the mechanism of action and current dermatologic applications of PL and extrapolate potential future dermatologic applications of PL. DESIGN: An extensive literature review on Pubmed was conducted in search of relevant background information and human studies utilizing PL for the treatment of dermatologic conditions. METHODS: Using the PubMed database, a literature search was conducted to identify relevant publications. "Polypodium leucotomos" was input as the key search criterion. The results were filtered by species (human) and language (English). Only papers with dermatologic applications were selected. Additionally, relevant publications found in the reference sections of selected articles were manually searched and selected. Included articles explore the origin, basic science mechanism, and various dermatologic applications of PL studied in humans. Each article was thoroughly studied by all authors and applicable data from each was used for the compilation of this review article. RESULTS: See Table 1 for a summary of dermatologic applications of PL based on available human clinical studies. LIMITATIONS: There was a limited number of human studies concerning the use of PL for treatment of dermatologic conditions and, of the available studies, many were of a small sample size. CONCLUSION: PL has a clinically significant role for the treatment and prevention of certain dermatologic conditions including: photoprotection, photocarcinogenesis, photoaging, vitiligo, melasma, and polymorphic light eruption. There is supporting evidence for its use in malignant melanoma high-risk patients, for enhanced actinic keratosis clearance following photodynamic therapy, and for symptomatic relief in atopic dermatitis. Potential clinical uses that require additional human clinical studies include solar urticaria, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and other photosensitive cutaneous disorders.

The role of the aqueous extract Polypodium leucotomos in photoprotection

Solar radiation in the ultraviolet (UV), visible (VIS), and infrared (IR) ranges produces different biological effects in humans. Most of these, particularly those derived from ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are harmful to the skin, and include cutaneous aging and increased risk of cutaneous diseases, particularly skin cancer. Pharmacological photoprotection is mostly topical, but it can also be systemic. Oral photoprotectives constitute a new generation of drugs to combat the deleterious effects of solar radiation. Among these, an extract of Polypodium leucotomos (PL/Fernblock®, IFC Group, Spain) contains a high content of phenolic compounds that endow it with antioxidant activity. PL can administered orally or topically and is completely safe. PL complements and enhances endogenous antioxidant systems by neutralizing superoxide anions, hydroxyl radicals, and lipoperoxides. In addition to its antioxidant activity, PL also improves DNA repair and modulates immune and inflammatory responses. These activities are likely due to its ability to inhibit the generation and release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by UVR, VIS, and IR radiation. PL also prevents direct DNA damage by accelerating the removal of induced photoproducts and decreasing UV-induced mutations. Oral PL increases the expression of active p53, decreases cell proliferation, and inhibits UV-induced COX-2 enzyme levels. PL has been used to treat skin diseases such as photodermatoses and pigmentary disorders and recently as a complement of photodynamic phototherapy in actinic keratoses. The photoprotective capability of PL has been proven in a multitude of in vitro and in vivo studies, which include animal models and clinical trials with human subjects. Based on this evidence, PL is a new generation photoprotector with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that also protects DNA integrity and enhances the immune response.

The Combination of Sulforaphane and Fernblock® XP Improves Individual Beneficial Effects in Normal and Neoplastic Human Skin Cell Lines

Plenty of evidence supports the health effects exerted by dietary supplements containing phytochemicals, but the actual efficacy and safety of their combinations have been seldom experimentally evaluated. On this basis, we investigated in vitro the antioxidant/antineoplastic efficacy and anti-aging activity of a dietary supplement containing sulforaphane (SFN), a sulfur-isothiocyanate present in broccoli, combined with the patented extract Fernblock^® XP (FB), obtained from the tropical fern Polypodium leucotomos. We evaluated the effect of SFN and FB, alone or in combination, on migration ability, matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) production, neoangiogenic potential and inflammasome activation in human WM115 and WM266-4 melanoma cells. Moreover, the effects on MMPs and reactive oxygen species production, and IL-1β secretion were studied in human normal keratinocytes. The SFN/FB combination inhibited melanoma cell migration in vitro, MMP-1, -2, -3, and -9 production, inflammasome activation and IL-1β secretion more efficiently than each individual compound did. In normal keratinocytes, SFN/FB was more efficient than SFN or FB alone in inhibiting MMP-1 and -3 production and IL-1β secretion in the presence of a pro-inflammatory stimulus such as TNF-α. The potential use of SFN/FB based supplements for the prevention of skin aging and as adjuvants in the treatment of advanced melanoma is suggested.

Fernblock® Upregulates NRF2 Antioxidant Pathway and Protects Keratinocytes from PM2.5-Induced Xenotoxic Stress

Humans in modern industrial and postindustrial societies face sustained challenges from environmental pollutants, which can trigger tissue damage from xenotoxic stress through different mechanisms. Thus, the identification and characterization of compounds capable of conferring antioxidant effects and protection against these xenotoxins are warranted. Here, we report that the natural extract of Polypodium leucotomos named Fernblock®, known to reduce aging and oxidative stress induced by solar radiations, upregulates the NRF2 transcription factor and its downstream antioxidant targets, and this correlates with its ability to reduce inflammation, melanogenesis, and general cell damage in cultured keratinocytes upon exposure to an experimental model of fine pollutant particles (PM_2.5). Our results provide evidence for a specific molecular mechanism underpinning the protective activity of Fernblock® against environmental pollutants and potentially other sources of oxidative stress and damage-induced aging.

Sunscreen Boosting Effect by Solid Lipid Nanoparticles-Loaded Fucoxanthin Formulation

Fucoxanthin is a bioactive compound that is a kind of natural carotenoid. Fucoxanthin is known to protect against UV-B-induced cell damage in hairless mice, even though it is physiochemically unstable to heat and acid due to its polyunsaturated structure, indicating that fucoxanthin possesses a low bioavailability, and this disadvantage limits its application in the cosmetic industry. Solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) systems are known to be suitable as carriers for sunscreen agents. In this research work, the sunscreen-boosting effect of SLN, as a deliverer of functional ingredient, especially fucoxanthin, has been developed and evaluated by comparing the sunburn protection factors (SPF) of macroemulsion (cream and lotion type) and an SLN formula containing various kinds of sunscreen agents, respectively. Several results such as stability test, particle size, DSC analysis, and X-ray analysis show that the SLN formula loading fucoxanthin has the possibility of being a stable and high-functioning ingredient delivery system. Moreover, the SLN formula has shown a higher SPF value than others, meaning that the SLN formula exhibits a good sunscreen-boosting effect. This study indicates that the use of SLN as a carrier enhanced the bioavailability of fucoxanthin and shows that SLN could be a promising carrier for the production of sunscreen products by allowing the scaling-up of production.

Protective Effect of the Aqueous Extract of Deschampsia antarctica (EDAFENCE®) on Skin Cells against Blue Light Emitted from Digital Devices

Skin is being increasingly exposed to artificial blue light due to the extensive use of electronic devices. This, together with recent observations reporting that blue light—also known as high-energy visible light—can exert cytotoxic effects associated with oxidative stress and promote hyperpigmentation, has sparked interest in blue light and its potential harmful effects on skin. The photoprotective properties of new extracts of different botanicals with antioxidant activity are therefore being studied. Deschampsia antarctica (Edafence^®, EDA), a natural aqueous extract, has shown keratinocyte and fibroblast cell protection effects against ultraviolet radiation and dioxin toxicity. In this regard, we studied the protective capacity of EDA against the deleterious effects of artificial blue light irradiation in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) and melanocytes. We analyzed the impact of EDA on viability, cell morphology, oxidative stress, melanogenic signaling pathway activation and hyperpigmentation in HDF and melanocytes subjected to artificial blue light irradiation. Our results show that EDA protects against cell damage caused by artificial blue light, decreasing oxidative stress, melanogenic signaling pathway activation and hyperpigmentation caused by blue light irradiation. All these findings suggest that EDA might help prevent skin damage produced by artificial blue light exposure from screen of electronic devices.

Environmental Stressors on Skin Aging. Mechanistic Insights

The skin is the main barrier that protects us against environmental stressors (physical, chemical, and biological). These stressors, combined with internal factors, are responsible for cutaneous aging. Furthermore, they negatively affect the skin and increase the risk of cutaneous diseases, particularly skin cancer. This review addresses the impact of environmental stressors on skin aging, especially those related to general and specific external factors (lifestyle, occupation, pollutants, and light exposure). More specifically, we have evaluated ambient air pollution, household air pollutants from non-combustion sources, and exposure to light (ultraviolet radiation and blue and red light). We approach the molecular pathways involved in skin aging and pathology as a result of exposure to these external environmental stressors. Finally, we reflect on how components of environmental stress can interact with ultraviolet radiation to cause cell damage and the critical importance of knowing the mechanisms to develop new therapies to maintain the skin without damage in old age and to repair its diseases.