Revealing the Therapeutic Potential: Investigating the Impact of a Novel Witch Hazel Formula on Anti-Inflammation and Antioxidation

Xue Liu1 | Tamer-Whittle Hage1 | Li-Chi Chen2 | Eddy Hsi Chun Wang1 | I-Chien Liao1 | Jodi Goldberg1 | Sabina Gosto1 | Paula Cziryak1 | Maryanne Senna2 | Ying Chen1 | Qian Zheng1

1 L'Oreal Research and Innovation, Clark, New Jersey, USA | 2Harvard Medical School, Boston & Beth Israel Lahey Health, Burlington, Massachusetts, USA

Correspondence: Xue Liu (xue.liu@loreal.com)

Received: 14 May 2024 | Revised: 4 October 2024 | Accepted: 18 October 2024

Keywords: anti-inflammatory | antioxidant | barrier function

Novel Thermus thermophilus and Bacillus subtilis mixed-culture ferment extract provides potent skin benefits in vitro and protects skin from aging

Jingyi Wang | Hu Huang | Kan Tao | Lili Guo | Xincheng Hu | Huailong Chang

Global R&D Center, Shanghai Chicmax Cosmetic Co. Ltd., Global Harbor Tower B, Shanghai, China

Correspondence

Huailong Chang, Global R&D Center, Shanghai Chicmax Cosmetic Co. Ltd., Global Harbor Tower B, 3300 North Zhongshan Road, Putuo District, Shanghai 200065, China.

Email: d201178135@alumni.hust.edu.cn

Abstract

Background: Skin aging is one of the most abundant aging-related disorders that can be accelerated by excessive exposure to ultraviolet irradiation. Topically applied fermented skincare ingredients have gained mounting attentions due to their high concentration of various skin nourishing nutrients and bioactive components and low skin irritation potency.

Aims: In the present study, we aim to fully demonstrate the skin-related benefits of a novel extract of Thermus thermophilus and Bacillus subtilis mixed-culture ferment (TBFE).

Methods: TBFE was prepared through an innovative mixed-culture fermentation process. The contents of nutrients and bioactive ingredients were quantified by different methods accordingly. Both in vitro tests and randomized controlled human trial were utilized to further demonstrate multifaceted beneficial effects on human skin, as well as the potential mechanisms.

Results: Our results showed that TBFE upregulated the expression of type IV collagen, elastin, aquaporin-3, and dermal-epidermal junction markers, while inhibited production of melanin, in different skin cell models. Moreover, TBFE inhibited the generation of reactive oxygen species and pro-inflammatory mediators induced by ultraviolet irradiation in normal human keratinocytes, while stimulated autophagy in senescent keratinocytes. Results from clinical studies confirmed those in vitro findings, demonstrating that TBFE at 5% and 20% concentration provides anti-aging properties in subjects with sensitive skin, in terms of improving wrinkles, moisturization, and skin

Conclusions: In summary, we demonstrate that a novel mixed-culture ferment extract has promising anti-aging effects, which may be attributed to anti-oxidation, antiinflammation, and promotion of autophagy in skin cells.

KEYWORDS

anti-aging, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, autophagy, mixed-culture fermentation

Cryptomphalus aspersa Egg Extract Protects against Human Stem Cell Stress-Induced Premature Senescence

Zozo Outskouni 1 , Christina Christodoulou 1 , Andreas Goutas 1,2, Ioannis D. Kyriazis 1 ,Adamantini Paraskevopoulou 3 , George P. Laliotis 4 , Anthia Matsakidou 3 , Athanasios Gogas 5 and Varvara Trachana 1,*

1 Department of Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, 41500 Larisa, Greece; zooutskouni@uth.gr (Z.O.); christichris96@gmail.com (C.C.); agoutas@bioacademy.gr (A.G.); ioankyriazis@uth.gr (I.D.K.)

2 Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece

3 Laboratory of Food Chemistry & Technology, School of Chemistry, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 54124 Thessaloniki, Greece; adparask@chem.auth.gr (A.P.); matsakidou@chem.auth.gr (A.M.)

4 Laboratory of Animal Breeding and Husbandry, Department of Animal Science, Agricultural University of Athens, 75 Iera Odos, 11855 Athens, Greece; glaliotis@aua.gr

5 Le Blanc Skincare, 41222 Larisa, Greece; atgogas@gmail.com * 

Correspondence: vtrachana@med.uth.gr

Citation: Outskouni, Z.; Christodoulou, C.; Goutas, A.; Kyriazis, I.D.; Paraskevopoulou, A.; Laliotis, G.P.; Matsakidou, A.; Gogas, A.; Trachana, V. Cryptomphalus aspersa Egg Extract Protects against Human Stem Cell Stress-Induced Premature Senescence. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25, 3715. https://doi.org/10.3390/ ijms25073715

Academic Editor: Carlo Ventura

Received: 7 January 2024

Revised: 23 March 2024

Accepted: 25 March 2024

Published: 27 March 2024

Copyright: © 2024 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/by/ 4.0/)

Abstract: Cellular senescence is a tightly regulated pathophysiologic process and is caused by replicative exhaustion or external stressors. Since naturally derived bioactive compounds with anti-ageing properties have recently captured scientific interest, we analysed the anti-ageing and antioxidant efficacy of Cryptomphalus aspersa egg extract (CAEE). Its effects on stemness, woundhealing properties, antioxidant defense mechanisms, and DNA damage repair ability of Human Wharton’s jelly mesenchymal stem cells (WJ-MSCs) were analysed. Our results revealed that CAEE fortifies WJ-MSCs stemness, which possibly ameliorates their wound-healing ability. Additionally, we show that CAEE possesses a strong antioxidant capacity as demonstrated by the elevation of the levels of the basic antioxidant molecule, GSH, and the induction of the NRF2, a major antioxidant regulator. In addition, CAEE alleviated cells’ oxidative stress and therefore prevented stress-induced premature senescence (SIPS). Furthermore, we demonstrated that the prevention of SIPS could be mediated via the extract’s ability to induce autophagy, as indicated by the elevation of the protein levels of all basic autophagic molecules and the increase in formation of autophagolysosomes in CAEEtreated WJ-MSCs. Moreover, CAEE-treated cells exhibited decreased Caveolin-1 levels. We propose that Cryptomphalus aspersa egg extract comprises bioactive compounds that can demonstrate strong antioxidant/anti-ageing effects by regulating the Caveolin-1–autophagy–senescence molecular axis.

Keywords: mesenchymal stem cells; senescence; snail egg extract; nutraceuticals

A global perspective on the treatment and maintenance of mature skin using gentle cleansers and moisturizers

Joachim W. Fluhr,1 Andrew F. Alexis,2 Anneke Andriessen,3 Olga L. Ferero Barrios,4 Peter Bjerring,5 Peter Foley,6 Michael H. Gold,7 Hashim Kaderbhai,8 and Chengfeng Zhang9

1 Institute of Allergology, Charite Universitatsmedizin, Berlin, Germany € ,

2 Weill Cornell Medical Medicine, New York, New York, USA, 3 Andriessen Consultants, Malden, The Netherlands, 4 Centro de Dermatologia, Porto Alegre, Brazil,

5 Department of Dermatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark,

6 Skin Health Institute, Carlton, Vic., Australia, 7 Gold Skin Care Center, Vanderbilt University School of Nursing, Nashville, TX, USA, 8 Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya; and 9 Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China

Keywords

xerosis; ceramide; moisturizers; mature skin; skincare.

Correspondence

Anneke Andriessen

Andriessen Consultants

Zwenkgras 25

6581RK

Malden

The Netherlands

E-mail: anneke.a@tiscali.nl

Conflict of interest: None.

Funding source: Joachim W. Fluhr, Andrew F. Alexis, Anneke Andriessen, Olga L. Ferero Barrios, Peter Bjerring, Michael H. Gold, Hashim Kaderbhai, and Chengfeng Zhang received support from CeraVe International for the research of this project and consultancy fees for attending the meeting.

Abstract

Xerosis is highly prevalent in the population aged over 50 years and substantially impacts quality of life due to the associated stigma, related pruritus, and potential sequelae. We propose that the term mature xerosis be used for subjects over 50 who suffer from age-related xerosis and replace senile xerosis to describe the phenomenon. The etiology of xerosis depends on genetic and environmental factors that affect stratum corneum hydration and skin barrier function. Skincare to restore barrier function is essential in xerosis treatment and is relevant for maintaining and preventing its progression. Many moisturizers and cleansers are available for xerosis; however, they are underutilized by patients with mature xerosis. A panel of eight global dermatologists reviewed the unique aspects of xerosis in mature skin and discussed the specific needs, relevance, and considerations for skincare selection to prevent, treat, and maintain skin with mature xerosis. The panel selected five statements based on evidence from a literature review and the panel’s clinical experience to provide clinical considerations and recommendations for dermatologists and other healthcare providers treating patients with mature xerosis. Increased recognition of the burden of xerosis in mature skin is warranted. Gentle cleansers and barrier-restoring ceramide-containing moisturizers are essential to xerosis management, reducing signs and symptoms of xerosis, including associated pruritus.

Cordyceps militaris-Derived Bioactive Gels: Therapeutic and Anti-Aging Applications in Dermatology

Trung Quang Nguyen 1 , Thinh Van Pham 2 , Yusuf Andriana 3 and Minh Ngoc Truong 4,5,*

1 Institute of Environmental Science and Public Health, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi 11353, Vietnam; nqtrung79@gmail.com

2 Faculty of Tourism and Culinary, Ho Chi Minh City University of Industry and Trade, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam; thinhpv@huit.edu.vn

3 Research Center for Appropriate Technology, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Subang 41213, Indonesia; yusufandriana@yahoo.com

4 Center for High Technology Research and Development, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

5 Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam

* Correspondence: minhtn689@gmail.com

Academic Editor: Shige Wang

Received: 9 December 2024

Revised: 23 December 2024

Accepted: 25 December 2024

Published: 3 January 2025

Citation: Nguyen, T.Q.; Van Pham, T.;Andriana, Y.; Truong, M.N. Cordyceps militaris-Derived Bioactive Gels: Therapeutic and Anti-Aging Applications in Dermatology. Gels

2025, 11, 33. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/gels11010033

Copyright: © 2025 by the authors.

Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license

(https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/)

Abstract: Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal mushroom widely utilized in traditional East Asian medicine, recognized for its diverse therapeutic properties. This review explores the potential of C. militaris-derived bioactive gels for applications in dermatology and skincare, with a particular focus on their therapeutic and anti-aging benefits. In response to the rising incidence of skin cancers and the growing demand for natural bioactive ingredients, C. militaris has emerged as a valuable source of functional compounds, including cordycepin, polysaccharides, and adenosine. These compounds exhibit multiple bioactivities, including apoptosis induction, cell cycle arrest, and anti-inflammatory effects, which have been shown to be particularly effective against melanoma and other skin cancers. Additionally, the antioxidant properties of C. militaris enhance skin resilience by scavenging reactive oxygen species, reducing oxidative stress, and promoting collagen synthesis, thereby addressing skin health and anti-aging requirements. The potential for incorporating C. militaris compounds into gel-based formulations for skincare is also examined, either as standalone bioactives or in combination with synergistic ingredients. Emphasis is placed on the necessity of clinical trials and standardization to establish the safety, efficacy, and reproducibility of such applications. By providing a safer alternative to synthetic agents, C. militaris-derived bioactive gels represent a promising advancement indermatology and skincare.

Keywords: anti-aging; bioactive compounds; Cordyceps militaris; dermatology; skincare; therapeutic properties

Functional Properties and Potential Applications of Wheat Bran Extracts in Food and Cosmetics: A Review of Antioxidant, Enzyme-Inhibitory, and Anti-Aging Benefits

Kaori Kobayashi 1 , Md Suzauddula 1 , Ryan Bender 1 , Cheng Li 2 , Yonghui Li 2,* , Xiuzhi Susan Sun 3,† and Weiqun Wang 1,*

1 Department of Food Nutrition Dietetics and Health, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; kobakaori@ksu.edu (K.K.); suza@ksu.edu (M.S.); rdbender@ksu.edu (R.B.)

2 Department of Grain Science and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; chengli@ksu.edu

3 Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506, USA; xss@ksu.edu or xssun@wakehealth.edu * Correspondence: yonghui@ksu.edu (Y.L.); wwang@ksu.edu (W.W.) † Current address: Wake Forest Institute of Regenerative Medicine, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC 27101, USA

Abstract: This review examines existing studies on wheat bran extracts (WBEs) to provide an overview of their functional properties, including antioxidant and enzyme-inhibitory activities, highlighting their potential as natural alternatives for applications in both the food and cosmetic industries. Despite variations in extraction techniques, WBEs consistently demonstrated a significant presence of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. In the food industry, WBEs are valued for their nutritional richness, including dietary fiber, proteins, and bioactive compounds such as arabinoxylans. These compounds improve food texture, stability, and baking properties. Additionally, WBEs have demonstrated antimicrobial potential, enhanced product quality, and serve as natural preservatives. Furthermore, WBEs exhibit significant inhibitory effects against collagenase and elastase, suggesting promising anti-aging potential. In the cosmetics sector, WBEs have gained attention due to their emulsion stability, skin-whitening properties, antimicrobial effects, and antioxidant capacities. They have the potential to enhance the stability of cosmetic emulsions, improve skin hydration, and inhibit enzymes linked to skin aging, positioning WBEs as potentially natural alternatives to synthetic ingredients in skincare and anti-aging products. Our recent pilot study also supports that WBEs enhance antioxidant defenses against oxidative stress in rats, highlighting their potential role in anti-aging interventions. To further elucidate the efficacy and bioavailability of the beneficial bioactive compounds in WBEs for both food and cosmetic applications, more comprehensive in vivo studies are required in the future.

Keywords: wheat bran extracts; antioxidants; enzyme inhibition; anti-aging compounds; food application; cosmetic application; bioactive compounds; functional properties

Academic Editor: Ana Teresa Sanches-Silva

Received: 9 December 2024

Revised: 13 January 2025

Accepted: 18 January 2025

Published: 5 February 2025

Citation: Kobayashi, K.; Suzauddula, M.; Bender, R.; Li, C.; Li, Y.; Sun, X.S.; Wang, W. Functional Properties and Potential Applications of Wheat Bran Extracts in Food and Cosmetics: A Review of Antioxidant, EnzymeInhibitory, and Anti-Aging Benefits. 

Foods 2025, 14, 515. https://doi.org/ 10.3390/foods14030515

Copyright: © 2025 by the authors. Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.

This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/ licenses/by/4.0/).