Ameliorative effects of a beverage containing elastin peptides, Sophora japonica flowers and Haematococcus pluvialis on skin aging: evidence from cell and human studies

Purpose Dietary supplements claiming anti-aging benefits often lack robust scientific validation. While elastin peptides (Peptides), Sophora japonica L. flower extract with specific content of rutin (Extract) and Haematococcus pluvialis powder containing astaxanthin (Powder) have each demonstrated anti-aging properties individually, their combined effects on skin aging remain unexplored. This study aims to evaluate the synergistic anti-aging potential of a beverage combining these ingredients and to validate its efficacy in cellular models and human study. Design/methodology/approach Ultraviolet A-induced stress models using human foreskin fibroblasts and human keratinocytes were used to assess collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid and aquaporin 3 synthesis. A four-week human study with eight participants measured skin elasticity (parameters R2, R5 and R7) and moisture content before and after oral consumption. Findings The ingredient ratio 15:8:20 for Peptide, Extract and Powder was optimal, which increased elastin, collagen and hyaluronic acid production by 155.98%, 104.79% and 120.98%, respectively, in cell models. In human study, after four weeks of administration, skin gross elasticity (R2), net elasticity (R5) and biological elasticity (R7) increased significantly by 18.70%, 15.50% and 25.39%, respectively. Additionally, skin moisture content increased significantly by 47.80%. Research limitations/implications The beverage demonstrated potent anti-skin aging effects, attributed to synergistic antioxidative actions of Peptide, Extract and Powder. This study provides evidence for oral nutraceuticals targeting multiple extracellular matrix components. While the formulation shows application potential for improving skin health, a larger and placebo-controlled trial is warranted to further confirm its efficacy. Originality/value The beverage demonstrated potent anti-skin aging effects, attributed to synergistic antioxidative actions of Peptide, Extract and Powder. This study provides evidence for oral nutraceuticals targeting multiple extracellular matrix components. While the formulation shows application potential for improving skin health, a larger and placebo-controlled trial is warranted to further confirm its efficacy.