TITLE:
In Vivo Improvements in Facial Appearance and in Vitro Changes in Gene Expression Using a Topical Formulation Designed to Repair Environmentally Induced DNA Damage
AUTHORS:
Amaryllis Aganahi, Richard Parker, Yohei Tanaka
KEYWORDS:
Photoprotection, Photorepair, DNA Repair, Anti-Photoaging, Gene Expression, Antioxidant, Rejuvenation
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications,
Vol.14 No.2,
May
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: Background: While sunscreen has been accepted as a mainline defence against photodamage from ultraviolet, visible light and near-infrared radiation, there appears to be a lack of research into photorepair. The concept of protecting the skin during the day and repairing cellular damage at night is intuitive, yet specific strategies revolving around combinations of proven reparative active ingredients remain unelucidated. Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of a solar repair Formulation following ultraviolet and environmental exposure in order to improve overall skin health and appearance through three hypotheses: The Formulation increases expression of DNA repair mechanisms markers; The Formulation enhances overall skin appearance through reducing signs of inflammation, elevating hydration, reinforcing skin firmness and amplifying radiance; In-Vivo efficacy test results are aligned with measured gene expression changes. Methods: The Formulation (#6NIC1.V1.1-1) was tested for: In-vitro LDH cytotoxicity activity, In-vitro qPCR gene expression with and without ultraviolet exposure on a reconstructed 3-dimensional skin model, and In-Vivo efficacy study on a panel of 22 participants objectively and subjectively. Results: Skin radiance, firmness, hydration, redness, and inflammation are significantly improved after In-Vivo skin exposure to the Formulation and environmental challenges such as ultraviolet radiation. These outcomes were confirmed by in-vitro genetic testing on a reconstructed human skin model. Conclusion: The studies allowed us to identify and group results in four main skin functions that were significantly enhanced following the application of the Formulation: firmness, hydration, radiance and soothing.