In search of a more integrative approach to skin aging, the two companies have joined forces to investigate a previously underexplored biological mechanism: the role of pro-resolving lipids in skin health.
Gattefossé, a producer of cosmetic active ingredients, and Ambiotis, an expert in inflammatory resolution mechanisms, are pioneering new avenues in anti-aging skincare by targeting age-related changes in pro-resolving lipids in the skin.
Deregulated bioactive lipids at the heart of skin aging
The two companies focused more specifically on the role of pro-resolving lipids found in the secretome, in interaction with macrophages – true sentinels of the immune system – and fibroblasts, the key architectural cells of the dermal extracellular matrix.
Gattefossé and Ambiotis have thus characterized and modeled the alterations of pro-resolving lipids observed in aged skin, revealing that these changes disrupt the interactions between macrophages and dermal fibroblasts. As a result, dermal fibroblasts become abnormally activated, adopting a pro-inflammatory and pro-degradative phenotype marked by increased secretion of matrix metalloproteinases.
An integrative approach to skin aging
This joint research aims to design and develop innovative cosmetic solutions to combat skin aging.
“Maintaining homeostasis is a fundamental element of human physiology. Fortunately, our bodies, tissues and skin are well equipped to do it, thanks in particular to the so-called specialized proresolving mediators. These lipids play a key role in enabling the body to move from a state of imbalance to a restored state of equilibrium. Encouraging the increased synthesis of these lipids is tantamount to reinforcing the skin’s own beneficial mechanisms, helping to prevent ageing and preserve the skin’s vitality,” said Marc Dubourdeau, CEO of Ambiotis.
“It is becoming essential to rethink cosmetic intervention through the lens of more integrative anti-aging approach. The tissue integrity of the skin can no longer be viewed solely in terms of the balance between synthesis and degradation of extracellular matrix components. Targeting pro-resolving bioactive lipids is now a key strategy to preserve skin health and effectively combat aging within a holistic healthy aging framework,” highlighted Nicolas Bechetoille, Head of Skin Biology Research at Gattefossé.
As skin aging is increasingly seen as a sign of deep biological imbalance, this scientific collaboration paves the way for innovative cosmetic solutions focused on a more integrative approach to aging, better reflecting the skin’s biological complexity.
