SkinCeuticals’ new research demonstrates use of antioxidants for pollution protection

US-based cosmeceutical company SkinCeuticals has reported positive data from its multi-year clinical research on the role of antioxidants and sunscreens in protection from atmospheric skin ageing.

Atmospheric skin ageing refers to the effects of ultraviolet A (UVA) / ultravilet B (UVB) rays, infrared (IR-A), and ground-level ozone pollution on the skin.

Ozone pollution reportedly causes excess oiliness, rough texture, and increased sensitivity of the skin.

SkinCeuticals has partnered with University of Ferrara and Italian professor Giuseppe Valacchi to depict the effects of ozone pollution exposure on live skin.

The research indicated that ozone pollution damages the skin by minimising collagen expression, oxidising lipids, and reducing the natural antioxidant reservoir, leading to the appearance of signs of ageing.

It also showed that collagen and hydroxynonenal (HNE) levels decreased from one exposure to 0.8ppm ozone and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NfKB) were activated.

Dr Valacchi said: “Further, ozone exposure has been strongly correlated to the development of some skin pathologies because it quickly reacts with the lipids present in the outmost layer of the skin, and induces a cascade of noxious effects through the skin."

The study further found that use of the firm’s antioxidants C E Ferulic and Phloretin CF neutralised free radicals on the skin’s upper layer and minimised ozone exposure damage. They were also claimed to decrease HNE and NfKB levels.

SkinCeuticals' US general manager Brenda Wu said: “We view pollution as the new frontier in dermatological research and one of the greatest challenges we face as a society.

“In understanding how it is affecting our skin, we can work to better prevent and protect against the damage.”

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Image: SkinCeuticals announces a breakthrough in pollution protection. Photo: courtesy of PR Newswire Association