Science
Mechanism of Action
This extract operates through several key pathways. It actively inhibits melanogenesis, decreasing tyrosinase activity by up to 35.5%, which leads to reduced melanin content and improved skin brightness. Its anti-aging efficacy stems from stimulating collagen production by promoting procollagen synthesis enzymes (TRP-1, TRP-2) while inhibiting collagen-degrading enzymes (MMP-2, MMP-9). As a powerful antioxidant, it reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and attenuates urban particulate matter (UPM)-induced cell damage and xenobiotic response by inhibiting AhR-induced ROS production. An active compound, Porphyra 334, further protects against UVB damage, modulating cell viability and apoptosis through JNK and ERK signaling pathways, and promotes keratinocyte proliferation. Additionally, its natural hygroscopic properties enable it to function as a humectant, drawing moisture into the skin, and polysaccharides like porphyran may offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
Research
Clinical Evidence
High confidenceN/A
Key findings
- 01 In human keratinocytes, concentrations of 10-50 μg/mL significantly reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and attenuated urban particulate matter (UPM)-induced xenobiotic response element (XRE) promoter activity. The active compound Porphyra 334, at 1-100 μm, similarly decreased cellular ROS and increased cell proliferation.
- 02 In vitro studies on mouse melanocytes, human dermal fibroblasts, and human dermal keratinocytes demonstrated no cytotoxic effects up to 800 μg/mL. At 800 μg/mL, it exhibited a potent inhibitory effect on melanogenesis, comparable to 100 μg/mL arbutin, and decreased tyrosinase activity by 35.5%.
- 03 A human volunteer study involving 23 participants showed enhanced skin brightness and reduced melanin content.
- 04 It promoted collagen production by inhibiting collagen-degrading enzymes (MMP-2 and MMP-9) and stimulating procollagen synthesis enzymes (TRP-1 and TRP-2).
Transparency
Dusting Analysis
Information regarding typical inclusion percentages that may indicate 'dusting' is not available in the provided research data.
The Formula
Formulation
Safety
Safety Profile
The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) deems red algae-derived ingredients, including Porphyra Yezoensis Extract, safe for cosmetic use. In vitro studies demonstrated no cytotoxic effects on mouse melanocytes, human dermal fibroblasts, or human dermal keratinocytes at concentrations up to 800 μg/mL for the extract, or 100 μm for its active compound, Porphyra 334. Some Porphyra species are also generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the US FDA for food consumption.
Your Skin
Skin Compatibility
Our Assessment
Verdict
Porphyra Yezoensis Extract is a valuable multi-functional ingredient, offering significant antioxidant protection, melanin reduction, and collagen stimulation across various skin types without observed cytotoxicity.
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References
Sources