Multicenter evaluation of a topical hyaluronic acid serum

Abstract

Background A new hyaluronic acid (HA) formulation was developed based on high molecular weight (MW) compounds used on the surface of the skin while using peptides to stimulate the high MW HA production by fibroblasts and keratinocytes from within the skin layers. Detailed science has been submitted to this journal in a previous publication. This multicenter study aims to validate the science by demonstrating the safety and efficacy of the product in the clinical realm. Objectives This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a topical HA serum in facial skin. Methods An open‐label clinical study was undertaken over 4 months from November 2021 to March 2022. Participants applied the topical serum twice daily and were provided a gentle cleanser and an SPF 30+ to use in the morning. Follow‐up visits were conducted at weeks 2, 4, and 8. At every visit, participants were measured for hydration post 15 minutes of cleansing the skin and post 15 minutes of product application for cumulative skin hydration sensor measurements. Additional procedures included participant assessments and satisfaction, investigator assessments, biopsies, and photography. Results At each follow‐up visit, there was an increase in hydration measurements compared to baseline, in both immediate scores and cumulative long‐term scores. At weeks 4 and 8, there was a statistically significant increase in hydration compared to baseline and the prior visit. Participants' assessments progressively increased over 2‐, 4‐, and 8‐week intervals with significantly favorable ratings in all measured parameters. Similarly, investigator assessment grades were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) for decreased fine lines/wrinkling, crepiness, texture, erythema, and dryness, and increased (p < 0.0001) for moisture/hydration. Histology revealed increased CD44 staining in 6 of the 7 participants biopsied, denoting increased HA stimulation. In all of the participant biopsies, H&E staining demonstrated improvement in solar elastosis. Photography revealed remarkable improvement in erythema, tone, and texture. Conclusions The study results demonstrated that the formulation produced significant improvements in immediate and long‐term hydration effects on the skin as measured by the skin hydration sensor, ‘wearifi’ technology, comparison of before and after biopsies, and participant and investigator assessments. This high MW HA formulation produced excellent clinical improvement in skin health and hydration.

Vitamin C, lactoferrin and elastin—Advancing the science

“…4 This study is an extension of this newly developed scientific narrative related to traditional L-ascorbate Vitamin C and elastin. 2,5 After confirming previous studies showing the adverse effects of L-ascorbate on elastin and confirming that the sodium salt indeed conserved elastin and prevented its destruction, the clinical trial conducted using the sodium ascorbate in a full formulationshowed not only elastin conservation but elastin stimulation in 5 of 5 biopsies undertaken. 5 The clinical studies were carried out using a full formulation 5 studies were undertaken using the SAC alone to measure the effect on elastin.…”

“…2,5 After confirming previous studies showing the adverse effects of L-ascorbate on elastin and confirming that the sodium salt indeed conserved elastin and prevented its destruction, the clinical trial conducted using the sodium ascorbate in a full formulationshowed not only elastin conservation but elastin stimulation in 5 of 5 biopsies undertaken. 5 The clinical studies were carried out using a full formulation 5 studies were undertaken using the SAC alone to measure the effect on elastin. 2 It was therefore necessary to look at individual components to explore the possibility that another constituent could synergistically increase the effect of elastin stimulation together with SAC.…”

“…2,4 In a further clinical study carried out with a formulation including SAC, was shown not only to conserve elastin but to increase and stimulate elastin formation, as demonstrated in 5 of 5 biopsy specimens tested. 5 Related to that discovery, we set out to determine if another active compound could act synergistically with SAC to bring about elastin stimulation over and above the conservation anticipated by SAC use. After examining all the constituents present in the formulation, lactoferrin was chosen as the most likely candidate because of previous experience with this compound and the extensive literature showing diverse functions and effects of the compound.…”

Marine Bioactive Peptides: Anti-Photoaging Mechanisms and Potential Skin Protective Effects

“…Hyaluronic acid, a biopolymer constituent of the dermal extracellular matrix, is naturally present in various tissues of the body, such as the synovial fluid, eyes, gums, bone tissue, and heart valves [84,85]. Its capacity to bind water enables it to contribute to the preservation of skin moisture and serves a significant function in skin rejuvenation by enhancing viscosity and reducing extracellular fluid permeability [86]. In the context of normal skin, hyaluronic acid synthesis is responsible for maintaining skin moisture [87].…”