Evaluation of the Efficacy and Safety of Blue Fenugreek Kale Extract on Skin Health and Aging: In-vitro and Clinical Evidences

BACKGROUND: The skin is primarily affected by aging, especially when it is exposed to particulate matter present in the environment. It has been hypothesized that consumption of products with known antioxidant properties would help combat factors associated with both intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the formulation Blue Fenugreek Kale Extract (BFKE) on skin aging. METHODS: In this study, the effect of BFKE on protein oxidation was determined in human dermal fibroblasts by analysis of the level of protein carbonylation after cells were stressed with either H(2)O(2) or urban pollution consisting of particulate matter and UV-A. Furthermore, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study that evaluated the effect of BFKE consumption over a period of 56 days in 59 volunteers was performed. The major parameter studied was skin barrier dysfunction through the assessment of Transepidermal Water Loss (TEWL). Additional parameters analyzed clinically include skin moisture content, participant self-assessment of skin parameters, wrinkle severity, skin sagging and elasticity. Furthermore, low grade and allergic inflammatory biomarker levels were measured at the start and end of the treatment period, along with oxidative stress assessment using blood malondialdehyde levels. RESULTS: BFKE significantly reduced protein carbonylation in human dermal fibroblasts stressed with urban pollution. In the clinical study, the TEWL level reduced significantly and at the same time the skin moisture content levels increased by end of the treatment period. No significant changes were observed in wrinkle severity, skin sagging, elasticity, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarker levels. Participant and investigator perception of treatment was significantly greater after product consumption, as was the improvement in skin parameters based on participant self-assessment. CONCLUSION: BFKE reduces protein oxidation induced by H(2)O(2) and restores skin barrier function and skin hydration, while also combating early signs of aging.