Human skin is the body’s first line of defence and often mirrors the health, nutritional status and age of a person. Over time, skin shows signs of ageing due to the gradual breakdown of collagen and elastin. However, skin can be rebuilt and made healthier no matter one’s age.
The study was conducted at the Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine (IUF) in Dusseldorf, Germany and examined 20 healthy women, aged 55-68 years. Participants were given 75mg of Pycnogenol per day, over a period of 12 weeks.
Skin hydration, skin elasticity and skin fatigue were assessed by non-invasive biophysical methods at trial start and after six and 12 weeks. In addition, at the beginning and again after 12 weeks of Pycnogenol supplementation, each time, a biopsy was obtained to assess gene expression of HAS-1 and COL1A1 and COL1A2. The study found that:
Dr Jean Krutmann, the lead researcher from the Leibniz Research Institute in Dusseldorf, Germany, said: “To date, Pycnogenol is the only natural supplement that stimulates hyaluronic acid production in human skin. And, we are encouraged by the molecular evidence confirmed in this study that shows nutritional supplementation with Pycnogeno benefits human skin.”
Study results confirmed Pycnogenol improved skin at a physiological and molecular level. Pycnogenol increased hyaluronic acid in women by 44% after 12 weeks of supplementation. Hyaluronic acid binds large quantities of water in the skin and in other tissues, such as cartilage. An increased amount of hyaluronic acid explains the increased skin hydration, higher elasticity and overall smoother skin appearance found in women taking Pycnogenol.
Victor Ferrari, CEO of Horphag Research, exclusive worldwide suppliers of Pycnogenol, who welcomes the publication, says: “This exciting and technically advanced investigation with women representing actual consumer profiles greatly supports our efforts for targeting the skin beauty category for both dietary supplements and functional foods.”
According to Ferrari, beauty from within has been a driver in Horphag’s business for the last several years, with Asian markets providing numerous Pycnogenol products in the skincare field. This study joins a sizeable and largely expanding portfolio of already established skin research on Pycnogenol. It confirms previous indications that Pycnogenol improves human skin conditions, including promoting glowing skin and reducing the appearance of over-pigmentation and skin inflammation, resulting in a more even complexion.
Source: Horphag Research (USA)
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