Expression of differential genes involved in the maintenance of water balance in human skin by Piptadenia colubrina extract.

Background: Hydration and integrity of the stratum corneum (SC) is an important determinant of skin appearance, metabolism, mechanical properties, and barrier function. The presence of aquaglyceroporins and envelope proteins are crucial to provide greater corneocyte cohesion to keep water and other moisturizers in the skin.

Aims: In this study, we evaluated the ability of Piptadenia colubrina, a plant native of South American rain forests, in the expression of genes involved in skin capacitance and SC integrity.

Effects of a Brazilian herbal compound as a cosmetic eyecare for periorbital hyperchromia ("dark circles").

Background: Evidence suggests that periorbital hyperchromia (dark circles) occurs mainly as a consequence of postinflammatory hemodynamic congestion producing a typical bruising aspect on the lower eyelids.

Aims: To evaluate the clinical effects of Pfaffia paniculata/Ptychopetalum olacoides B./Lilium candidum L.

Effect of green Coffea arabica L. seed oil on extracellular matrix components and water-channel expression in in vitro and ex vivo human skin models.

Background: Green Coffea arabica L. seed oil is being widely used in cosmetic formulations, although its effects on human skin cells are not clear and most observations are unpublished.

Aims: In this study, we evaluated the in vitro effects of green coffee (C.

Effects of Coccoloba uvifera L. on UV-stimulated melanocytes.

Background: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation induces generation of reactive oxygen species, production of proinflammatory cytokines and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) as well as increase in tyrosinase activity. The potential photoprotective effects of Coccoloba uvifera extract (CUE) were evaluated in UV-stimulated melanocytes.

Methods: Human epidermal melanocytes were used as an in vitro model to evaluate the effects of CUE on the production interleukin-1alpha (IL-1alpha), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), and alpha-MSH under basal and UV-stimulated conditions.

Neuroimmunomodulatory compound for sensitive skin care: in vitro and clinical assessment.

Background: The pathophysiology of sensitive skin consists of an inflammatory reaction resulting from the abnormal penetration in the skin of potentially irritating substances, which occurs due to skin barrier dysfunction and changes in the production of local neuromediators.

Aims: The therapeutic potential of L-carnosine and Rhodiola rosea, as antioxidant and neuromodulatory, respectively, leads us to investigate the effects of the R. rosea extract/L-carnosine-associated compound (RCAC) on sensitive skin alterations.