Effects of tocotrienol on aging skin: A systematic review

The skin serves as the primary protective barrier safeguarding the body from environmental impacts. As we age, our skin undergoes changes, leading to reduced elasticity, collagen loss, wrinkles, and increased pigmentation. UV radiation exacerbates these effects, causing DNA damage and oxidative stress, contributing to photoaging and Skin Cancer.

In combating these aging effects, antioxidants play a crucial role, with Vitamin E, specifically tocotrienols, emerging as a promising solution. Tocotrienols, due to their presence of the prenyl side chain increases its permeability through the cell membranes and uptake of unstable electrons from free radicals. Thus, they have superior skin absorption compared to tocopherols and vitamin C. This blog aims to highlight the evidence supporting tocotrienol’s effectiveness in addressing age-related skin conditions, emphasizing their potential as a valuable asset in skincare formulations.

UV radiation is a significant factor affecting skin health, with UVA and UVB rays being particularly impactful due to their penetration ability. While UVA penetrates deeply, impacting cellular and extracellular structures, UVB affects the epidermis layer. This exposure, along with blue light, contributes to skin aging, wrinkles, reduced hydration, and potential skin cancer risks. Tocotrienols, specifically γ-tocotrienol, show promise in mitigating these effects.

Tocotrienol's Impact on UV-Induced Damage

Studies reveal that γ-tocotrienol treatment inhibits MAPK phosphorylation and ROS production in human keratinocyte cells, crucial mechanisms activated by UV exposure. UV-induced COX-2 expression, leading to inflammatory effects, is suppressed by tocotrienol. Additionally, tocotrienol inhibits NF-κB activation, providing protection against UV irradiation. These findings suggest a potential preventive role for tocotrienol in UV-induced skin damage.

Tocotrienol and Skin Pigmentation

UV exposure induces pigmentation, triggering melanin production and tyrosinase activity. Tocotrienol, particularly δ-tocotrienol, shows promise in downregulating melanin production. Further research is needed to understand the specific isomers' impact on melanin production and identify the most effective for in vivo testing.

Tocotrienol's Role in Skin Moisturization

Maintaining skin moisture is essential, and tocotrienols, being liposoluble antioxidants, have potential benefits. While the focus has often been on tocopherol, future research should explore tocotrienol's efficacy, potentially enhancing skin hydration and reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).

Tocotrienol and Wrinkle Reduction:

UV exposure contributes to wrinkle formation through matrix degradation and skin inflammation. Limited studies suggest a reduction in wrinkles and roughness with tocotrienol-rich formulations, emphasizing the need for further research to understand the mechanisms behind tocotrienol's potential anti-wrinkle effects.

Key take away:

Tocotrienols, known for their antioxidant properties, show promise in skincare due to their antiaging potential. While existing data indicate their effectiveness in mitigating inflammation, pigmentation, and UV-induced damage, more research is needed to comprehend their impact on skin moisture and wrinkles. Optimizing tocotrienol formulations and comparing oral and topical treatments can enhance their bioavailability and efficacy, paving the way for effective anti-aging solutions.

Feel free to share your thoughts and reflections.?

Citation:?

Ghazali, N. I., Mohd Rais, R. Z., Makpol, S., Chin, K. Y., Yap, W. N., & Goon, J. A. (2022). Effects of tocotrienol on aging skin: A systematic review.?Frontiers in pharmacology,?13, 1006198.?

Link: https://doi.org/10.3389/fphar.2022.1006198