Juvecol is a patented proteoglycan extract from the cartilage of salmon that reportedly induces the production of collagen and hyaluronan (a substance found in soft connective tissues) and enhances the proliferation of keratinocytes (skin cells).
The ingredient was developed by Ichimaru Pharcos, a Japanese nutraceutical and cosmeceutical ingredient manufacturer. Maypro is the exclusive agent for this propriety ingredient in the US.
Study
To investigate its effects on skin health, researchers from Ichimaru Pharcos and the Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 56 healthy male and female adults complaining of dry skin due to air conditioning. For 6 weeks, the salmon proteoglycan (sPG) group was given an oral supplement containing 5mg of sPG a day. At the end of the study, there was a significant increase in skin moisture content and TEWL suppression.
Results published in the journal Japanese Pharmacology & Therapeutics supported the skin moisturizing properties of Juvecol while previous published clinical studies indicate that Juvecol also improves skin elasticity, tone-brightening, roughness and wrinkle reduction. Juvecol has also shown EGF-like activity, and hyaluronic acid and type I collagen synthesis promotion.
Denis Alimonti, Director of Maypro’s Propriety Branded Ingredient Department says: “This new research further strengthens the scientific substantiation of Juvecol, adding to the body of strong efficacy data for skin and joint health.”
“Given the ever-increasing problem of air-conditioning-caused skin drying, these findings could not come at a better time. We’re pleased that we are able to offer this award-winning and clinically-validated skin-health ingredient,” Alimonti adds.
Future of Juvecol
Alimonti said Maypro is forecasting continued growth in supplements for skin health.
“With the ever-increasing influence of environmental effects that negatively impact skin health – including toxins outdoors, indoors and in our food supply – the demand for safe and effective beauty-from-within products is expected to continually rise,” says Alimonti.
Juvecol was launched at the end of 2016. There are currently three products for human use, with another being launched soon, and two products for pets which are all available in the US.
Source: Japanese Pharmacology & Therapeutics
2021;Volume 49, Number 3, Pages 449–458.
“Skin-moisturizing effect of an oral supplement containing salmon nasal cartilage proteoglycan”
Authors: T. Takahashi, et al.