(P06-054-25) Anti-glycation Effects of Astaxanthin-Contained Supplement on Skin Aging in Chinese Women: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Objectives: Glycation is an irreversible biochemical process that occurs within the body, leading to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which contribute to various manifestations of skin aging, including wrinkles, dull complexion, and skin dehydration. Previous research has shown that astaxanthin (ASX), alpha-lipoic acid (ALA), cinnamon extract (CE) and chromium can all enhance glucose metabolism and reduce the formation of AGEs. Additionally, vitamin C, vitamin A, biotin, copper and zinc are essential for maintaining the skin’s normal structure and physiological function. Therefore, the scientifically formulated combination of all the mentioned ingredients is believed to have a beneficial effect on the skin, and its anti-glycation effects are evaluated by a clinical approach.

Methods: A total of 70 Chinese females aged 25-45 were recruited for this clinical trial, and randomly assigned to receive either an ASX-containing formula or a placebo daily for 56 days. Indicators of skin conditions, including moisture, oiliness, tone, elasticity, firmness, smoothness, wrinkles, and AGEs level, were objectively assessed at baseline (day 0), day 28 and day 56. In addition to the physician evaluations, a self-assessment questionnaire was also collected.

Results: Notably, compared to both the placebo group and the baseline value on day 0, significant improvements in skin conditions were observed after 28 and 56 days of the ASX-containing formula consumption. These improvements included enhanced moisture, brightness, elasticity, firmness and smoothness (p＜0.001). Concurrently, there was a marked decrease in oil content, wrinkles depth/amount, and AGEs level (p＜0.001). We also observed a significant increase in dermal strength among participants throughout the trial (p＜0.01), suggesting that the formula effectively boosted collagen formation. Meanwhile, questionnaire responses indicated that over 94.3% of participants perceived an improvement in color spots and acnes.

Conclusions: Overall, these findings indicate that the ASX-containing formula with ALA, CE, certain vitamins and minerals could reduce AGEs accumulation, thereby enhancing skin conditions, including skin brightness and firmness, while reducing wrinkles, thus helping to counteract signs of skin aging.

Funding Sources: This research received no external funding.