Seaweed extracts clinically proven to combat ageing

Research confirming the soothing, protective and anti-ageing properties of two new seaweed extracts has been published in the respected, peer-reviewed Swiss journal, Cosmetics. ( Available online at http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/2/2/66/ ).

The extracts have been developed specifically for cosmetic and skincare applications and are derived from the Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus species of seaweed. Both ingredients are rich in fucoidan, a natural polysaccharide unique to brown algae. They also contain polyphloroglucinol, a type of polyphenol found primarily in marine plants.

The extracts were developed by Australian biotechnology company, Marinova Pty Ltd.

The two seaweed extracts were tested both in vitro and in human clinical trials. The human clinical studies were framed to assess the ability of the ingredients to improve the condition and appearance of the skin. Clinical trials were also undertaken to evaluate the extent to which the compounds protect and soothe skin exposed to UV radiation.

In human clinical trials, the Fucus vesiculosus extract reduced wrinkle depth and improved overall skin appearance. It was also shown to reduce age spots and increase radiance. These clinical findings corroborate in vitro tests, which have confirmed that this extract is a potent inhibitor of key enzymes responsible for skin damage including collagenase, tyrosinase and elastase.

The extract from Undaria pinnatifida was also shown to reduce wrinkle depth and improve overall skin appearance. Clinical trials further confirmed that this extract increases moisture retention following UV exposure. The Undaria extract was also shown to reduce redness after UV exposure as well as activate key genes associated with wound healing. Additionally, in vitro tests confirmed that this compound inhibited glycation and reduced the activity of radical-producing enzymes such as myeloperoxidase.

Importantly, both seaweed extracts were found to increase the expression of SIRT1, a protein known for its longevity-boosting and anti-ageing activity.

These research findings pave the way for successful commercialisation of the compounds in the key cosmetic and skincare markets of Europe, Asia and North America. Marinova has branded the Fucus vesiculosus and Undaria pinnatifida extracts as Maritech® Bright and Maritech® Reverse, respectively.

This news coincides with Maritech® Reverse being awarded the silver medal at the prestigious Green Cosmetic Ingredient Awards at the recent in-cosmetics exhibition in Barcelona, Spain.

In explaining the significance of the results, Chief Scientist at Marinova, Dr Helen Fitton, said very few characterised seaweed extracts had been developed specifically for cosmetic and dermatological applications.

“The cosmetics industry has long promoted the benefits of seaweeds and seaweed extracts. Unfortunately, the true efficacy of many seaweed ingredients is largely unknown. It was this lack of evidence that motivated Marinova to develop cosmetic ingredients of consistent quality and with proven bioactivity,” Dr Fitton said.

“In developing Maritech® Reverse and Maritech® Bright, Marinova is breaking new ground. These are novel, high-purity fucoidan compounds developed specifically for cosmetic and dermatological applications; they are very well characterised and set a new standard for natural skincare ingredients. Most importantly, their functionalities and benefits have been confirmed in a number of clinical trials.”

Marinova has developed a portfolio of fucoidan compounds for use in a range of pharmaceutical, nutritional and skincare products. The company’s comprehensive research and development program includes ongoing investigations into the bioactivity of fucoidan in cosmetic and dermatological applications.

Maritech® Reverse and Maritech® Bright are COSMOS, USDA and ACO accredited organic ingredients. Both ingredients are extracted from wild seaweeds which have been harvested on an environmentally sustainable basis. They are kosher and halal certified and manufactured in Australia by Marinova under cGMP.

Reference: Fitton, J.H.; Dell’Acqua, G.; Gardiner, V.-A.; Karpiniec, S.S.; Stringer, D.N.; Davis, E. Topical Benefits of Two Fucoidan-Rich Extracts from Marine Macroalgae. Cosmetics 2015, 2, 66-81

About Marinova

Marinova Pty Ltd is a progressive Australian biotechnology company dedicated to the development and manufacture of high purity seaweed extracts for the betterment of human health. The company specialises in the research, development and manufacture of fucoidan compounds for use in medical, nutritional and dermatological applications.

Marinova is recognised globally for its commitment to innovation and the quality of its Maritech® branded fucoidan extracts. From its headquarters in Cambridge, Tasmania, the company supplies its products to world-renowned research institutions and some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical and nutraceutical companies. www.marinova.com.au
Dr Helen Fitton Chief Scientist