Nanowire-based squalene oleogel repairs skin photoaging.
Summary
A phosphotungstate calcium nanowire squalene oleogel mimicking skin lipids improved penetration and UVB stability, reduced epidermal thickness, increased dermal thickness, and upregulated elastin, collagen, and barrier markers. RNA-seq indicated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms underlying photoaging repair.
Key Findings
- Squalene/phosphotungstate calcium nanowire oleogel enhanced skin penetration and stability under UVB compared with hydrogel.
- Treatment reduced epidermal thickness, increased dermal thickness, and upregulated elastin, collagen, and barrier markers.
- RNA-seq showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory signatures consistent with photo-damage mitigation.
Clinical Implications
Supports development of stable, lipid-mimetic squalene oleogels as anti-photoaging topicals; human studies should assess efficacy, irritation, and long-term safety.
Why It Matters
Introduces a translatable formulation strategy that stabilizes and retains squalene in skin with histologic and transcriptomic evidence of photoaging repair, relevant to cosmeceutical development.
Limitations
- Preclinical model without human clinical endpoints or irritation/sensitization testing.
- Durability of effects and optimal dosing regimen remain undefined.
Future Directions
Conduct randomized human trials versus benchmark anti-photoaging agents, assess long-term safety, and optimize formulation for stability and consumer use.
Study Information
- Study Type
- Cohort
- Research Domain
- Treatment
- Evidence Level
- V - Preclinical in vivo experiment with molecular profiling; no clinical outcomes.
- Study Design
- OTHER