Pomegranate peel-powered zinc oxide nanoparticles show promise for anti-ageing sun care
Pomegranate peel extract enables zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles’ green synthesis with high SPF and antioxidant, anti-pigmentation and antibacterial effects, according to new research in India.
The study conducted by Dr. D. Y. Patil Dnyan Prasad University and Srinath College of Pharmacy used peel extract from Punica granatum to reduce zinc salts into ZnO nanoparticles and “cap” them — coating the particles with polyphenols such as ellagic acid, gallic acid and quercetin.
The research highlights several opportunities, including the upcycling of an abundant agro-waste, and supporting the positioning of such particles as multifunctional.
Dark tea extract shows dual action against melanin formation: Chinese study
A study in China conducted by Jiangnan University and Guangzhou Huashi Cosmetic Technology has reported that a water extract of dark tea can both slow melanin production and reduce signals that drive post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Tests showed that it contained familiar tea compounds such as caffeine, theobromine, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), along with other beneficial plant chemicals.
These are known to help reduce inflammation and protect cells — two important factors that influence how skin produces pigment.
For manufacturers, this extract is simple to make, water-based, and easy to control for quality and consistency.
Chinese study links facial lipid shifts to early skin ageing in women
A lipidomics study of 151 healthy Chinese women has found clear, age-linked shifts in facial stratum corneum lipids between ages of 19 and 33 years.
The research tied specific ceramides and neutral lipids to skin ageing in women, in the form of changes to skin barrier, elasticity, brightness, and oil levels.
The study — conducted by researchers at Shin Biotechnology, the Chinese Academy of Inspection and Quarantine, Fudan University, and the Dermatology Hospital Medical Center of Air Force — focused on an age window where sebum peaks and first signs of ageing typically appear.
Hot-melt extrusion boosts ferulic acid delivery for skin brightening and repair – study
A South Korean study conducted by BeNatureBioLab and Kangwon National University has presented an eco-friendly way to supercharge ferulic acid in two traditional herbs, Cnidium officinale and Angelica gigas, using hot-melt extrusion (HME).
The method produced extracts that better controlled melanin production and helped skin cells close scratches faster.
According to the authors, HME is a continuous, solvent-free process already common in the pharmaceutical industry that can help brands develop cleaner, more efficient brightening and regeneration actives from botanical sources.
Kao identifies biological mechanism behind skin sensitivity, potential way to ease discomfort
Kao Corporation has uncovered a biological reason for sensitive skin often experiencing stinging or burning sensations despite appearing normal, as well as a potential way to ease these symptoms.
The findings were presented at the 50th Convention of the Japanese Cosmetic Science Society in Tokyo in July, where the work received the Convention President’s Award.
Kao said the discovery could help develop new skin care technologies that would improve quality of life for people who suffer from irritation and hypersensitivity.
