Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The skin aging process is mainly associated with the appearance of fine wrinkles and flaccid, dry, and dull skin. A hyaluronic acid matrix (HAm) ingredient containing HA, sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), and collagen is proposed to enhance skin health by improving hydration and structural integrity. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of oral supplementation with HAm on skin properties. METHODS: A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was designed, including 60 healthy women aged 35-65 with signs of natural skin aging (NCT05813054). Participants were assigned to receive either HAm (Dermial(®); 60 mg daily) or a placebo and were dermatologically assessed after 6 and 12 weeks. Skin properties were determined by the evaluation of stratum corneum hydration (SCH), brightness/glow, wrinkles, dryness, roughness, smoothness, pH, temperature, elasticity, friction, antioxidant capacity, deformability, melanin index, and erythema index. In addition, global satisfaction and adverse reactions were assessed. RESULTS: Assessments were performed on data from 50 participants as a per-protocol analysis. Skin wrinkles and smoothness (6 weeks), and roughness (12 weeks) significantly improved in the HAm group compared with the placebo group. Participants receiving HAm had significantly increased skin SCH and brightness, and decreased scaliness and temperature at 6 and 12 weeks versus the baseline value. A statistically significant reduction in the erythema index and a balanced pH were also observed in the HAm group. Global satisfaction was significantly higher in HAm as compared to placebo. No serious adverse events associated with the tested products were registered during the study. CONCLUSIONS: Daily supplementation with HAm effectively improves multiple aspects of skin health and appearance, suggesting its potential as a safe and beneficial antiaging ingredient. These results support the role of HAm in promoting skin brightness/glow and hydration, and reducing the visible effects of aging. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials. gov identifier, NCT05813054.