nouvelles-1 — hydration

Research Summary: The main function of the epidermis is to generate an impermeable outer layer, the stratum corneum. The stratum corneum can be considered morphologically and functionally as a two-compartment system composed of: 1) anucleate corneocytes (the bricks), largely made up of fibrous protein networks, and 2) the intercellular matrix (the mortar), predominantly composed of neutral lipids. Whereas much of the prior and current research on the stratum corneum has focused on the protein biochemistry leading to the formation of the keratinized corneocyte (“keratinization”), this paper is concerned with the formation, composition, and function of the intercellular matrix of the...

Research Summary:Artocarpus heterophyllus (A. heterophyllus) is one of the plants commonly used for skin care. This study aimed to formulate a clay mask preparation with the active ingredient  A. heterophyllus 3% leaf extract and evaluate its activities in repairing facial moisture, smoothness, large pores, blemishes, and wrinkles. The process of preparing the clay masks began with the extraction of Artocarpus heterophyllus leaf ethanol extracts, ensuring standardized quality. This was followed by the preparation of clay mask bases with guaranteed quality, mixing the clay mask bases with the extracts, and testing the quality, stability, and effectiveness of the skin care product....

Research Summary: Glycerol is a trihydroxy alcohol that has been included for many years in topical dermatological preparations. In addition, endogenous glycerol plays a role in skin hydration, cutaneous elasticity, and epidermal barrier repair. The aquaporin-3 transport channel and lipid metabolism in the pilosebaceous unit have been evidenced as potential pathways for endogenous delivery of glycerol and for its metabolism in the skin. Multiple effects of glycerol on the skin have been reported. The diverse actions of the polyol glycerol on the epidermis include improvement of stratum corneum hydration, skin barrier function, and skin mechanical properties. Glycerol also inhibits the...

Research Summary: Glycerol and xylitol hydrate the skin and improve its barrier function over a short period. We studied the effects of glycerol and xylitol on the physiological properties and morphology of the skin after longer-term application. Twelve volunteers with dry skin were examined. Three areas on the arms were determined. Area 1 served as an untreated control. The vehicle was applied to area 2, while area 3 was treated twice daily with a formulation containing glycerol (5%) and xylitol (5%) for 14 days. Transepidermal water loss (TEWL), hydration, and biomechanical properties of the skin were monitored. Biopsies were taken...