Amorepacific Corporation elucidates how autophagy can improve aging skin

[Financial News] Amorepacific Corporation has scientifically elucidated how its independently developed anti-aging ingredient, Red Flavonoid, activates autophagy (self-eating) and improves skin.
According to industry sources on the 11th, the study is follow-up research on Red Flavonoid, which Amorepacific Corporation identified as a key ingredient in its joint research with the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) that confirmed the potential for skin rejuvenation. The findings were published last month in the online edition of the international dermatology journal Experimental Dermatology.
The skin’s autophagy function—which helps maintain health by breaking down and recycling damaged cellular components—is said to decline with age. As a result, damaged components can accumulate within cells, the epidermis can become thinner, and skin barrier function can deteriorate.
The researchers confirmed that excessive activation of the protein PDK1, which is involved in cell growth and inflammatory responses, is a key regulatory mechanism contributing to reduced autophagy in aging skin. They also identified how key components of Amorepacific Corporation’s proprietary bioflavonoid ingredient, Red Flavonoid—extracted from camellia seeds using an environmentally friendly process—regulate PDK1 and activate impaired autophagy.
The findings showed that the proliferation and differentiation abilities of aged epidermal cells were restored and the expression of proteins needed to maintain skin structure increased. The study points to the potential to improve skin function diminished by aging by activating autophagy, which is important for maintaining skin homeostasis.
In a four-week randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical study involving women aged 60 and older, use of a formulation containing Red Flavonoid was found to reduce transepidermal water loss (TEWL), increase skin moisture and stratum corneum ceramide levels, and improve epidermal thickness and barrier-related measures.
Amorepacific Corporation said the study further strengthened its technological foundation for anti-aging, centered on autophagy. The technology is incorporated into key high-performance products from Sulwhasoo, Laneige and AP Beauty.
Brian Byung-fhy Suh, head of Amorepacific Corporation’s Research & Innovation (R&I) Center, said, “We will continue to study the fundamental principles of skin aging and develop solutions that customers can experience for themselves.”
[email protected] Kang Myeong-yeon Reporter