Pycnogenol® - The Skin’s Matrix Activator (Collagen, Elastin, Hyaluronic Acid)

Healthy skin is well hydrated and shows a high level of elasticity to be able to better deal with external stress such as sun radiation, heat, humidity, changes in temperature or air pollution.

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To achieve that, skin consists of different components, such as collagens that make up over 30% of the extracellular matrix, acting as supportive tissue material and bringing stability and elasticity (1). Elastin, which together with fibrillin microfibrils make up elastic fibers, is crucial for elasticity and extensibility of various tissues, including the skin (1). Another important component of the extracellular matrix is hyaluronic acid, which contributes to water retention in tissues and to their structural integrity (1).

Pycnogenol® French maritime pine bark extract has shown significant benefits for skin health and beauty and tissue support. Clinical investigations of Pycnogenol® supplementation for 3 months in healthy female volunteers, aged 55 to 68 years revealed significantly increased expression of hyaluronic acid synthase within the skin by 44%, leading to improved skin hydration and improved tissue architecture support (2). Hyaluronic acid synthase is the natural source of water-binding hyaluronic acid in the dermis, which moisturizes the skin and keeps it taut and smooth. Additionally, Pycnogenol® was shown to stimulate the synthesis of new collagen - skin’s connective tissue - by increasing its expression in average by 40% (2). Furthermore, Pycnogenol® was shown to prevent the release and activity of destructive enzymes (metalloproteinases 1, 2 and 9), which break down dermal tissue proteins, like collagen or elastin (3,4). The reduced activity of these lytic enzymes saves the connective tissues from degradation, representing the basis for maintaining an elastic and youthful-looking skin.

Pycnogenol® improves skin hydration and elasticity