Science
Mechanism of Action
Hydrolyzed Horse Amnion/Placenta/Umbilical Extract acts as a multifaceted skin conditioner. It functions as a humectant and emollient, contributing to skin softening and smoothing, while its film-forming properties help reduce trans-epidermal water loss, enhancing surface hydration. The ingredient supports skin barrier function by promoting beneficial microbial growth (Staphylococcus epidermidis) and antimicrobial peptide expression in keratinocytes. Furthermore, it exhibits anti-aging effects by reducing stratifin expression in aged cells, which can mitigate wrinkle progression, and by suppressing IL-6 expression to indirectly prevent matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) overactivity. Rich in amino acids, antioxidative enzymes, and nucleic acids, it provides antioxidant protection, activates fibroblast mitochondria to increase type I collagen production, and enhances fibroblast migration, suggesting beneficial roles in wound healing and overall skin rejuvenation.
Research
Clinical Evidence
Medium confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In vitro tests demonstrated significant DPPH radical scavenging activity, indicating potent antioxidant effects.
- 02 An in vitro study showed significant enhancement of human fibroblast migration, suggesting potential wound healing and barrier repair benefits.
- 03 In vitro application led to a significant increase in mitochondrial activity and type I collagen synthesis in human fibroblasts.
- 04 Ex vivo evaluations on a three-dimensional human epidermal culture system confirmed cell proliferation and safety.
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
The Formula
Formulation
Stability
Extraction methods, such as enzymatic digestion, are designed to preserve bioactive substances. It is typically prepared using water or water-soluble organic solvents. An in vitro study on antioxidant activity utilized a 0.1 M Tris–HCl buffer (pH 7.4).
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel concluded that data were insufficient to support the safety of placental ingredients. The European Commission's CosIng database advises considering EU Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009, which prohibits Category 1 and 2 animal by-products in cosmetics. According to EU and US law, placental extracts are generally not considered cosmetic ingredients due to the potential presence of hormones. While in vitro cytotoxicity was observed at very high concentrations (750-1500 μg/ml), no toxic effect on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells was noted within a concentration range of 46.9 to 1500 μg/ml after 72 hours.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Despite promising in vitro efficacy for anti-aging and skin barrier support, its use is significantly complicated by insufficient safety data from CIR and regulatory prohibitions in the EU and US due to potential hormone content, rendering it unsuitable for cosmetic formulations.
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