Skin penetration and metabolism of a new micellar retinol formulation for cosmetics and therapeutics

Lead Research Organisation: University of Surrey
Department Name: Chemical Engineering

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to find out how Phytoceutical's nano-micellar retinol formulations work and how they impact the skin after use. To do this, we will use a special type of model that simulates the different layers of skin. This model will be exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light to simulate sun exposure before the Phyto formulations are applied.

In the study, we will test three different concentrations of Phyto formulations (0.1%, 0.3%, and 1%) and compare the results to a standard retinol product and a control group where no product is applied.

To observe the effects of the products on the skin model, we will use two types of special microscopes: light sheet microscopes and multiphoton microscopes. With the light sheet microscopes, we will examine how the product spreads in the skin model and how it affects the shape and position of the skin cells. With the multiphoton microscopes, we will see the effects of the product on the production of collagen, which is an important protein that helps keep skin looking youthful, and on the healing of wounds in the skin.

We will also use two different spectroscopy techniques to track the conversion of retinol to retinoic acid, which is a process that occurs in the skin. This will give us information about whether the Phyto formulations are affecting this process and how they compare to the standard retinol product and the control group.

By comparing the results of the Phyto formulations, the standard retinol product, and the control group, we will be able to determine the optimal concentration of Phyto formulations for use in skin care products. This information will be important for developing safe and effective products that can help people achieve healthier, more youthful-looking skin.

Publications

10 25 50
 
Description Advanced pharmaceutical formulations MSc course
Geographic Reach Multiple continents/international 
Policy Influence Type Influenced training of practitioners or researchers
 
Description Optimum dosage of a novel micellar retinol formulation for healthy wound healing and scar minimisation
Amount £61,448 (GBP)
Funding ID ST/Z510026/1 
Organisation Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) 
Sector Public
Country United Kingdom
Start 03/2024 
End 03/2025
 
Description Micellar retinol on collagen production 
Organisation STFC Vulcan 1PW Laser
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Public 
PI Contribution From our initial collaboration on the skin penetration of micellar retinol, our research team contributed to further collaboration through writing the second round of STFC call proposal on the use of the micellar retinol formulation for collagen production.
Collaborator Contribution Our partners at Central Laser facility at STFC have contributed the collaboration through their expertise in sophisticated microscopes for imaging the collagen production in skin organoids
Impact In the process of writing a paper
Start Year 2023
 
Description Writing articles for The Conversation that is relevant to the research topic of the awards 
Form Of Engagement Activity A magazine, newsletter or online publication
Part Of Official Scheme? No
Geographic Reach International
Primary Audience Public/other audiences
Results and Impact The Conversation article entitled "Your 'skin barrier' protects your skin and keeps it hydrated - here's how to look after it" tells the general public on how to look after their skin barrier.
Year(s) Of Engagement Activity 2024
URL https://theconversation.com/your-skin-barrier-protects-your-skin-and-keeps-it-hydrated-heres-how-to-...