The quest for natural and sustainable solutions in cosmetics has led to the exploration of unique bioactive ingredients. Among these, postbiotics have garnered attention for their potential skin health benefits. Willaertia magna C2c Maky, a microorganism isolated from French Alps thermal spring waters, has been investigated for its ability to counteract the effects of skin aging. This study explores the anti-aging efficacy of Willaertia lysate, a non-viable, biosourced postbiotic, highlighting its impact on cell migration, extracellular matrix quality, and oxidative stress reduction.
Methods
This study employed a combination of in vitro and ex vivo models to assess the effects of Willaertia lysate on skin cells and tissue. The lysate was tested for its ability to promote cell migration, enhance the extracellular matrix (ECM), and stimulate markers associated with epidermal and dermal health. Additionally, its antioxidant properties were evaluated through its impact on oxidative stress markers and DPPH radical scavenging. Comparative studies were conducted using retinol to contextualize its efficacy. Statistical analyses were performed to confirm the significance of the findings.
Key Findings
- Cell Migration and ECM Remodeling:
- Promoted cell migration in human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes.
- Enhanced ECM quality and abundance in aged skin, achieving similar levels to young skin by stimulating:
- Epidermal markers: Ki67, loricrin, and filaggrin.
- Dermo-epidermal junction markers: COLVII.
- Dermal markers: Hyaluronic acid (HA).
- HA Synthesis and Content:
- Increased HAS gene expression by 1.8-fold at a low concentration (0.2% dilution).
- Boosted HA content by 38% in 3D aged skin models, restoring levels comparable to young skin.
- Demonstrated similar efficacy to retinol at ten-fold lower concentrations.
- Skin Barrier and Protective Effects:
- Strengthened the skin barrier through the stimulation of loricrin and filaggrin.
- Improved dermal elasticity, firmness, and hydration via markers like COLVII, laminin-332, COLI, elastin, and HA.
- Oxidative Stress Reduction:
- Decreased oxidative stress markers, including protein carbonylation and lipid peroxidation.
- Exhibited antioxidant properties, reducing DPPH radicals and mitigating UV-induced damage.
- Anti-(Photo)Aging Efficacy:
- Demonstrated global protective effects against aging and photoaging, highlighting its potential for well-aging and longevity.
This study is the first to explore Willaertia magna C2c Maky lysate as a natural, biosourced postbiotic ingredient for cosmetics, highlighting its potential anti-aging and skin health benefits. Consistent results across various models demonstrate its efficacy, though some variability may stem from natural biological differences. The lysate’s properties align with the broader skin benefits linked to thermal spring waters. While promising, these findings require clinical validation, and future research should further investigate the bioactive components driving these effects, offering a path to innovative solutions for skin longevity and well-aging.
Link to the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/11/6/200b
