Augmented Skin Beneficial Effects of Thermus Thermophilus and Bacillus Subtilis Mixed-Culture Ferment Extract by Tripeptide GHK-Cu.

BACKGROUND

Skin aging is a complex process driven by multiplex factors, including chronic inflammation and UV exposure. It has become common practice for cosmetic formulations to counteract skin aging by targeting different pathways simultaneously with a pool of active ingredients. The present study aims to explore the skin protective effects of a novel extract of ferment in combination with copper tripeptide-1 GHK-Cu from an anti-inflammation perspective.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

An extract of the Thermus thermophilus and Bacillus subtilis mixed-culture ferment (TBFE) was prepared and the skin protective effects of its combination with the human tripeptide derivative GHK-Cu were explored through in vitro, ex vivo, and clinical tests.

RESULTS

The combination outperformed TBFE or GHK-Cu alone in inhibiting secretion of inflammatory cytokines by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated macrophages. In addition, one face cream formulated with the combination as the sole active ingredients protected human skin explants from ultraviolet irradiation induced damage by maintaining skin morphology and decreasing the degradation of extracellular matrix. Finally, results from the clinical study demonstrated that the combination was effective in decreasing wrinkles and improving skin barrier conditions.

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that the combination of TBFE and GHK-Cu exerts anti-aging effects on human skin by targeting inflammation, extracellular matrix, and skin barrier function. Therefore, the combination offers a promising option for anti-aging skincare regimen by addressing multiple mechanisms involved in skin aging.