UV protection afforded by gel-trapped TiO2 particles.

We have developed a technology to incorporate micronized titanium dioxide (TiO(2)), together with antioxidants, in particles of a UV-visible transparent polymer gel. These particles are coated with silica to avoid clustering and the size of the micronized TiO(2) reduces the back scattering of white light. gel-trapped TiO(2) minimizes the oxidative stress exerted by UV radiation, increases the photo-stability of some accompanying ingredients, such as avobenzone.

Modification of skin discoloration by a topical treatment containing an extract of Dianella ensifolia: a potent antioxidant.

Skin hyperpigmentation, and the reactions that precipitate it, have been linked to free radicals by the fact that free radical scavengers or antioxidants can slow that hyperpigmentation. We have screened several hundred plant extracts for antioxidants and discovered one that is both a strong antioxidant and can reduce skin hyperpigmentation. Extracts of Dianella ensifolia contain 1-(2,4-dihydrophenyl)-3-(2,4-dimethoxy-3-methylphenyl) propane (DP), which was found to inhibit the free radical 1-1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) with an EC(50) value of 78 mum.

Use of the synthetic superoxide dismutase/catalase mimetic EUK-134 to compensate for seasonal antioxidant deficiency by reducing pre-existing lipid peroxides at the human skin surface.

The generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in UV-exposed skin is believed to contribute to the photoaging process. The stratum corneum (SC) contains a variety of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants to protect against various environmental sources of free radicals. We have previously shown a seasonal variation in SC catalase activity with strong deactivation in sun-exposed skin in the summer, whereas SC superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity remained intact in those conditions.

Prevention of oxidative damage that contributes to the loss of bioenergetic capacity in ageing skin.

Skin ageing is a complex biological process related to a decline in physiological and biochemical performance. A decline in the mitochondrial energy production is a feature of ageing at the cellular level. This is partially attributed to excessive production of reactive oxygen species such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide in aged individuals.