The study, published in Cosmetics, also found that after 12 weeks of use, the formula improved the morphological characteristics of the epidermis and was associated with the brightness of the stratum corneum.
Photoaging effects were not improved in either group, suggesting that the formula did not reach deeper levels of the skin. However, the formula did result in deep skin hydration: “Therefore, we can suggest that the use of the formulation containing the association of antioxidants (olive extract + Spirulina sp.—F6) after 12 weeks promotes hydration in the skin’s deeper layers, which can help with cell renewal and can maintain skin physiology and health.”
Study examination & findings
In prior studies, both olive extract and spirulina have been shown to improve skin health. Olive fruit extract contains polyphenols, which are high in antioxidants. Prior research has shown that olive fruit extract can reduce hyperpigmentation caused by photoaging. Spirulina, when included in a sunscreen formulation, has been shown to improve skin mechanical properties and barrier function.
“The topical application of Spirulina sp. in cosmetics has been patented by our research group for its antioxidant effect on the prevention of free radicals and the protective effects in the skin barrier function by clinical studies,” the authors write.
For this study, the authors tested whether the combination of these ingredients would help to enhance skin health and reduce signs of photoaging. The double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled study consisted of 27 women between the ages of 39 and 60 who had signs of photoaging. Participants either applied a placebo or the olive extract/spirulina formulation for 12 weeks. All participants used a daily sunscreen due to its benefits as a UV filter and its ability to limit pollutant retention in the skin.
In addition to looking at morphological, structural, and echogenicity in skin characteristics, the authors also checked stability, texture, rheological behavior, and other properties.
The olive extract/spirulina formula participants had decreased transepidermal water loss, increased hydration, improved skin barrier, and increased stratum corneum water content.
“The observed film-forming effect may be related to the composition of Spirulina sp. used in the formulation of the association, as it presents carbohydrates in the form of polysaccharides that are considered natural polymers,” the authors write. “This is the first time that the film-forming effect has been observed long-term (12 weeks).”
No significant differences were found in skin hyperpigmentation, skin surface homogeneity, or furrows morphology. While there was a substantial difference in stratum corneum thickness for both groups, it was only significant for total epidermis thickness in the olive extract/spirulina group. “In addition, both groups had an improvement in the dermis echogenicity, due to the use of sunscreens,” the authors write.
Source: Cosmetics
2024, 11(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics11030068
“Development of Cosmetic Formulations Containing Olive Extract and Spirulina sp.: Stability and Clinical Efficacy Studies”
Authors: Costa, G.M.D, et al.
