New chitin complexes and their anti-aging activity from inside out.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology and Cosmeceutical Science
• Nutritional Science and Nutraceuticals
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Antioxidants and immunomodulatory compounds are vital for skin health.
• The synergistic effects of combined topical and oral antioxidant cosmeceuticals and nutricosmetics on skin aging are not well understood.
• This research addresses the knowledge gap regarding the combined efficacy of specific compounds in anti-aging skincare.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the combined topical and oral administration of a melatonin, vitamin E, and beta-glucan (MEB) complex with chitin nano-crystals (CN).
• To assess the impact of the MEB-CN complex on skin hydration, superficial lipids, elasticity, peroxidation, and overall clinical appearance.
• To determine the anti-aging efficacy and tolerability of this novel cosmeceutical and nutricosmetic approach.

Main Methods:

• A 12-week, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter study involving 70 healthy subjects with photo-aged skin.
• Administration of MEB complexed with CN via topical emulsion and oral hard capsules.
• Clinical assessments and non-invasive biophysical measurements were conducted at weeks 4, 8, and 12.

Main Results:

• Significant improvements (p<0.005) in all evaluated biophysical and clinical parameters compared to placebo.
• Enhanced efficacy observed when MEB was complexed with CN, regardless of administration route (topical, oral, or combined) (p<0.05).
• Positive outcomes were noted as early as week 4, with no reported side effects throughout the study.

Conclusions:

• Combined topical and oral use of MEB complexed with CN significantly reduces wrinkles and improves overall skin appearance and wellness.
• Chitin nano-crystals enhance the efficacy of the MEB complex for anti-aging benefits.
• The MEB-CN formulation is a safe and effective approach for managing skin photo-aging.