COMPOSITIONS AND METHODS FOR TREATING SIGNS OF SKIN
AGING
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The invention relates to methods and compositions for treating skin aging.
More specifically, the invention relates to methods and compositions for (i)
stimulating the production of tropoelastin and (ii) crosslinking tropoelastin at the
same time.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The aging of skin may be understood as being influenced by intrinsic factors
and extrinsic factors. Intrinsic factors include natural changes to the skin, which are
regulated by genetic makeup. Extrinsic factors include exogenous influences such as
UV damage, environmental factors, and the like.
Aging of the skin can adversely affect elasticity and strength of the skin
through changes in the two main constituents of the dermal extracellular matrix, the
fibrous proteins collagen and elastin. For example, elastin is a large fibrous protein
formed by the crosslinking of elastin precursor protein molecules (e.g., tropoelastin)
into spiral filaments. The spiral filaments consist of peptidic chains that are capable
of extending and then resuming their original shape.
Elastin is secreted by the fibroblasts of the dermal connective tissues into the
extracellular matrix. However, the biosynthesis of elastin typically ceases at some
point during adulthood. Furthermore, during intrinsic and extrinsic aging processes,
elastin undergoes structural and compositional changes, e.g., the elastic fibers
progressively degenerate and separate into fragments. The changes could manifest
themselves by signs of aging, such as lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, sagging, skin
dryness and unevenness, blotches, and age spots.
Certain agents are known for their beneficial effect of inhibiting the
degradation of crosslinked elastin. For example, it is known that matrix
metalloproteinases (MMPs), a group of enzymes that are able to break down
macromolecules in the extracellular matrix, play an important role in elastin
degradation. It has been found that the content of MMPs is markedly higher in old
skin than in young skin. MMPs also play a critical role in the premature skin aging
caused by exogenous factors. An even higher level of MMPs was detected in light-
aged skin as compared with aged skin protected from the light. J. H. Chung et al., J.
Invest. Dermatol. (2001) 117, 1218-1224. Studies have also shown that the levels of
a series of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, -3, -9 and-13) are significantly higher
in patients with inflammation. T. Kuboto et al., Arch. Oral. Biol. (1996) 41, 253-
262; A. L. Ejeil et al., J. Periodontol (2003) 74, 188-195. Further, MMP-2 and
MMP-9 were found to be the elastin-degrading proteases. Cosmetics & Toiletries
(2000) 115 (11), 75-82).
A number of plant extracts have been described as inhibitors of various
MMPs. For instance, J. L. Lamaison describes the inhibition of elastase (porcine
pancreatic elastase) with extracts of plants selected from the rosaceae group and
attributes the inhibition to the tannins they contain. Ann. Pharmaceutiques
Francoises (1990) 48, 335-340.
M. Herrmann et al. discloses that SymMatrix, a hydroalcoholic blackberry
leaf extract, exhibits the MMP-1, MMP-2, and MMP-9 inhibitory activity. SOFW
Journal (2006) 132(4), 42-46.
In addition, certain natural or synthetic compounds are known for the
beneficial effect of promoting the production of elastin precursor. For example,
retinoids up-regulate elastin production in fibroblasts. Liu B, Harvey CS, McGowan
SE. Am. J. Physiol. (1993 Nov) 265(5 Pt l):L430-437.
Furthermore, it has also been noted that certain agents positively influence
the cross-linking of tropoelastin. For example, lysyl oxidase serves as a crosslinking
enzyme and an element of the scaffold to ensure spatially defined deposition of
elastin. Liu, Xiaoqing et al., Nature Genetics (2004), 36(2), 178-182. Valerie et
al. discloses a dill extract that induces the lysyl oxidase (LOXL) gene expression,
which is responsible for elastin cross-linking in adults. Experimental Dermatology
(2006), 15(8), 574-81. Additionally, currant, cardamon, black radish, box holly,
Asea foetida gum, ethyl hexenoate, methyl butyrate, and ethyl decadienoate are
disclosed as promoters of LOXL gene expression. GB 2,438,999.
Thus, numerous pathways and agents have been proposed to positively
influence elastin and skin-properties related thereto. However, the inventors have
recognized that a surprisingly beneficial synergistic efficacy is obtained by topically
applying a composition that includes both a tropoelastin promoter and a tropoelastin
crosslinker.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to compositions and methods to treat signs of
skin aging. According to one aspect of the invention, a composition comprises at
least one tropoelastin promoter and at least one tropoelastin crosslinker.
According to another embodiment of the invention, a method of treating a
sign of skin aging comprises topically applying to skin in need thereof a cosmetically
effective amount of composition comprising at least one tropoelastin promoter and at
least one tropoelastin crosslinker.
Other features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from
the detailed description of the invention and from the claims.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have
the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to
which the invention belongs. Also, all publications, patent applications, patents, and
other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference. Unless otherwise
indicated, a percentage refers to a percentage by weight (i.e., %(W/W)).
As used herein, "signs of skin aging" includes the presence of lines and
wrinkles, loss of elasticity, uneven skin, blotchiness, and age spots.
As used herein, "treating" refers to mitigating, reducing, preventing,
improving, or eliminating the presence or appearance of a condition or disease.
As used herein, "wrinkle" includes fine lines, fine wrinkles, or coarse
wrinkles. Examples of wrinkles include, but are not limited to, fine lines around the
eyes (e.g., "crow's feet"), forehead and cheek wrinkles, frown-lines, and laugh-lines
around the mouth.
As used herein, "loss of elasticity" includes loss of elasticity or structural
integrity of the skin or tissue, including but not limited to sagging, lax and loose
tissue. The loss of elasticity or tissue structure integrity may be a result of a number
of factors, including but not limited to disease, aging, hormonal changes, mechanical
trauma, environmental damage, or the result of an application of products, such as a
cosmetics or pharmaceuticals, to the tissue.
As used herein, "uneven skin" means a condition of the skin associated with
diffuse or mottled pigmentation, which may be classified as hyperpigmentation, such
as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
As used herein, "blotchiness" means a condition of the skin associated with
redness or erythema.
As used herein, "age spots" means a condition of the skin associated with
discrete pigmentation, e.g., small areas of darker pigmentation that may develop on
the face as well as the hands.
As used herein, "cosmetic" refers to a beautifying substance or preparation
which preserves, restores, bestows, simulates, or enhances the appearance of bodily
beauty or appears to enhance the beauty or youthfulness, specifically as it relates to
the appearance of tissue or skin.
As used herein, "cosmetically effective amount" means an amount of a
physiologically active compound or composition sufficient for treating one or more
signs of skin aging, but low enough to avoid serious side effects. The cosmetically
effective amount of the compound or composition will vary with the particular
condition being treated, the age and physical condition of the end user, the severity
of the condition being treated/prevented, the duration of the treatment, the nature of
other treatments, the specific compound or product/composition employed, the
particular cosmetically-acceptable carrier utilized, and like factors.
It is believed that one skilled in the art can, based upon the description
herein, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The following specific
embodiments are to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the
remainder of the disclosure in any way whatsoever.
Tropoelastin Promoter
"Tropoelastin promoter," as used herein, refers to a class of compounds that
possess the biological activity of enhancing the production of tropoelastin.
Tropoelastin promoters, according to the present invention, include all natural or
synthetic compounds that are capable of enhancing the production of tropoelastin in
the human body.
Suitable tropoelastin promoters may be determined, for example, using the
"Tropoelastin Promoter Assay" as follows.
A cardiomyoblast cell line, H9c2, (2x104 cells/well) is grown in a 48-well
plate for 24 hours to reach 80-90% confluence. The next day, the cells are
transiently transfected with the pGL2-Elastin2.2 luciferase reporter construct at a
concentration of 0.45µg total DNA in the ratio 6:1 pGL:pRL, using Lipofectamine
2000, following manufacturer's instructions (Invitrogen Corporation, Carlsbad,
California). A construct with the Renilla luciferase reporter gene (pRL-TK) is
included as an internal control in all transfections. One day after transfection, the
cells are treated with the indicated dose of the test sample for 24 hours before they
are lysed for analysis. Luciferase assays are carried out using the Dual-Luciferase
Reporter Assay System from Promega, following manufacturer's protocol. The ratio
of firefly and renilla luciferase activities (RLU) is used to evaluate the Tropoelastin
Promoter Activity of the test samples. Specifically, the ratio of firefly to renilla
luciferase activities (RLU) for the sample is divided by the RLU measured for the
vehicle control to arrive at Tropoelastin Promoter Activity for the test sample.
Preferably, the tropoelastin promoter has a Tropoelastin Promoter Activity of
at least 1.2, preferably at least 1.25, more preferably at least 1.3, and most preferably
at least 1.5; when tested in one or more concentrations in a range of 0.5
micrograms/milliliter to 2.5 milligrams per milliliter (on an actives basis), preferably
when tested in a concentration in the range of 1.0 micrograms/milliliter to 2.5
miligrams per milliliter (on an actives basis).
Examples of suitable tropoelastin promoters include, but not limited to,
blackberry extract, cotinus extract, a feverfew extract, and bimetal complexes having
copper and/or zinc constituents. The bimetal complex having copper and/or zinc
constituents may be, for example, copper-zinc citrate, copper-zinc oxalate, copper-
zinc tartarate, copper-zinc malate, copper-zinc succinate, copper-zinc malonate,
copper-zinc maleate, copper-zinc aspartate, copper-zinc glutamate, copper-zinc
glutarate, copper-zinc fumarate, copper-zinc glucarate, copper-zinc polyacrylic acid,
copper-zinc adipate, copper-zinc pimelate, copper-zinc suberate, copper-zinc
azealate, copper-zinc sebacate, copper-zinc dodecanoate, or combinations thereof.
In a preferred embodiment, the tropoelastin promoter is selected from blackberry
extracts, cotinus extracts, feverfew extracts, and combinations thereof.
By "cotinus extract," it is meant an extract of the plant Cotinus coggygria,
such as a water extract of Cotinus coggygria, 3% active, that is commercially
available from Bilkokoop of Sofia, Bulgaria.
By "feverfew extract," it is meant an extract of the plant Tanacetum
parthenium, such as may be prepared as set forth in published US Patent Application
No. US2007/0196523. One particularly suitable feverfew extract is commercially
available as about 20% active feverfew extract, from Integrated Botanical
Technologies of Ossining, NY.
A particularly preferred tropoelastin promoter is a blackberry extract. By
"blackberry extract," it is meant an extract of a plant of the genus Rubus, and
preferably Rubus fruticosus. In one embodiment, the extract is isolated from the
flowers of the plant. In a further embodiment, the extract is isolated from dried
flowers of the plant. Such extracts may be isolated from one or more parts of the
plant (e.g., the whole plant, flower, seed, root, rhizome, stem, fruit and/or leaf of the
plant). In a preferred embodiment, the blackberry extract is a blackberry leaf
extract.
The extraction process may include physically removing a piece of such
plant, and, for example, grinding it. Suitable compounds may also be isolated from
the plant by using extraction procedures well known in the art, e.g., the use of
organic solvents such as lower C1-C8 alcohols, C1-C8 alkyl polyols, C1-C8 alkyl
ketones, C1-C8 alkyl ethers, acetic acid C1-C8 alkyl esters, and chloroform, and/or
inorganic solvents such as water, inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, and
inorganic bases such as sodium hydroxide.
For example, a blackberry extract may be prepared by an extraction with
water, alcohols such as ethanol, or combination thereof. It is preferred to use an
extractant including both ethanol and water.
The blackberry plant parts are preferably dried prior to extraction. It is
preferable to use only the leaves of the blackberry plant and not other plant parts
such as the fruit (berries) of the blackberry, its branches, or roots.
In one embodiment, blackberry leaf extract is prepared as follows: a) an
extractant containing an alcohol selected from the group consisting of methanol,
ethanol, n-propanol, and isopropanol is added to blackberry leaves, and b) the
blackberry leaves are contacted with the extractant for up to 72 hours.
The ratio of the mass of extractant to leaf solids is preferably established
such that at least a 10-fold mass of extractant relative to the leaf solids but preferably
no more than a 50-fold mass of extractant relative to the leaf solids is obtained,
preferably a 10-to 20-fold mass. A 14-to 18-fold mass of extractant relative to the
leaf solids is particularly preferable. Good results were achieved with a 16-fold mass
of an ethanol-containing solvent (relative to the leaf solids).
The time for performing extraction step b) is at most 72 hours but can also be
shorter. With particularly short extraction times only a very dilute extract is obtained
in step b). It is therefore preferable to extract the blackberry leaves in step b) for at
least 1 hour, in particular for at least 2 hours. The necessary extraction time is
chosen on the basis of the quality of the blackberry leaves to be extracted,
particularly their age, and of the other extraction conditions, particularly the
extraction temperature. At elevated extraction temperatures, in particular at an
extraction temperature in the range from 60 to 100°C, preferably in the range from
80 to 100°C, the extraction time is preferably 1 hour to 6 hours, particularly 2 hours
to 4 hours.
In addition, it is particularly preferable to perform the extraction in step b) by
refluxing the extractant, particularly at temperatures up to about 100°C, preferably
in the range from 80 to 100°C. In this case the extraction time is preferably no more
than 24 hours.
The extraction temperature is established on the basis of the extractant that is
used. If an ethanol-containing solvent is used, a temperature in the range of 60°C to
100°C, in particular in the range of 80°C to 100°C, is preferred, particularly if a
mixture of ethanol and water is used as the extractant as described below.
It is preferable if the extractant contains an alcohol, particularly ethanol, in
an amount of at least 20 wt.% relative to the total weight of extractant. It is likewise
preferable if the extractant contains water in an amount of at least 15 wt.% relative
to the total weight of extractant. It is particularly preferable if the extractant
simultaneously contains at least 20 wt.% of an alcohol (preferably ethanol) and at
least 15 wt.% of water relative to the total weight of extractant.
Particularly preferred blackberry leaf extracts are obtained with an extractant
consisting of ethanol and water in a weight ratio of 2:8 (2 parts by weight of ethanol
mixed with 8 parts by weight of water) to 8:2, preferably in a weight ratio of 3:7 to
7:3, particularly preferably in a weight ratio of 3:7 to 1:1.
Detailed procedures for preparing a suitable blackberry leaf extract are
disclosed in published US Patent Application No. 2008/0095719, which is herein
incorporated in its entirety.
Accordingly, in one preferred embodiment, the blackberry extract is a
blackberry leaf extract, i.e., the extract is produced from the leaves of the blackberry
plant. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the blackberry extract is produced
from the leaves of Rubus fruticosus. In a further particularly preferred embodiment,
the blackberry extract is produced by extracting the leaves of Rubus fruticosus with
a mixture of water and a lower alcohol such as ethanol.
One particularly suitable blackberry extract produced by extracting the
leaves of Rubus fruticosus with a mixture of water and ethanol is the commercially
available material "SymMatrix" from Symrise, Inc. of Teterboro, NJ, which is
compounded to about 5 to 10% by weight in a maltodextrin matrix.
Compositions of the present invention may include a cosmetically effective
amount of one or more tropoelastin promoters such as those described above. The
compositions preferably include, on an active basis, from about 0.1% to about 10%
by weight of tropoelastin promoters, more preferably from about 0.5% to about 5%
by weight of tropoelastin promoters, and most preferably from about 0.5% to about
2% by weight of tropoelastin promoters.
Tropoelastin Crosslinker
Compositions of the present invention include one or more tropoelastin
cross-linkers. By "tropoelastin crosslinker," it is meant a class of compounds that
possess the biological activity of enhancing the enzymatically-based cross-linking of
elastin precursors such as tropelastin, fibrilin and the like to one another or onto
other elastin precursors or onto existing elastic fibers.
In one embodiment, the tropoelastin crosslinker is suitable to promote the
activity of an isoform of lysyl oxidase (such as LOXL, lysyl-oxidase like isoform) as
described in published patent application, GB2402676 of Colectica, which is
incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
Particularly suitable examples of tropoelastin cross-linkers include natural or
synthetic compounds, such as, but not limited to, dill extract, currant extract,
cardamom extract, black radish extract, box holly extract, Asafoetida extracts (e.g.,
gum), ethyl hexenoate, methyl butyrate, and ethyl decadienoate. One particularly
suitable tropoelastin cross-linker is dill extract.
In a preferred embodiment, compositions of the present invention include a
cosmetically effective amount of a dill extract. By "dill extract," it is meant an
extract of a plant of the genus Peucedanum, and preferably Peucedanum graveolens.
The extract may be one of the whole plant, flower, seed, root, rhizome, stem, fruit
and/or leaf of the plant, such as may be prepared by grinding or chemical extraction.
In a preferred embodiment, the dill extract is an extract of the fruit of dill, preferably
of Peucedanum graveolens.
Such compounds may also be isolated from the plant by using extraction
procedures well known in the art, e.g., the use of organic solvents such as lower C1-
C8 alcohols, C1-C8 alkyl polyols, C1-C8 alkyl ketones, C1-C8 alkyl ethers, acetic acid
C1-C8 alkyl esters, and chloroform, and/or inorganic solvents such as water,
inorganic acids such as hydrochloric acid, and inorganic bases such as sodium
hydroxide.
One particularly suitable dill extract is a "dill fruit," 5%-10% in water,
commercially available from BASF of Parsippany, NJ, as "Lys'lastin."
In one embodiment, the composition preferably includes, on an active basis,
from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of tropoelastin crosslinker, more
preferably from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of tropoelastin crosslinker, and
most preferably from about 0.5% to about 2% by weight of tropoelastin crosslinker.
According to the invention, surprising and synergistic effects in treating one
or more signs of skin aging are achieved using the composition of the invention. In
particular, topical application of the composition of the invention improves the
properties of skin, such as decreasing lines and wrinkles, increasing elasticity, and
reducing uneven skin tone, blotchiness or age spots.
It should be noted that the tropoelastin promoter and tropoelastin cross-linker
may be two or more separate compounds. Alternatively, they may be a single
compound having both tropoelastin promoting activity and tropoelastin cross-linking
activity.
Cosmetically acceptable carriers
One or more cosmetically acceptable carriers may also be present in the
cosmetic compositions of this invention.
As used herein, "cosmetically acceptable" means suitable for use in contact
with (human) tissues (e.g., the skin) without undue toxicity, incompatibility,
instability, irritation, allergic response, and the like, commensurate with a reasonable
benefit/risk ratio.
Suitable carriers of this invention include, but are not limited to, water,
ethanol, isopropanol, 1,2-propanediol, glycerin, benzyl alcohol, dimethylisosorbide,
triacetin, glycol ethers, propylene glycol and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Particularly
preferred solvents include PEG having an average molecular weight between about
200 and about 400, castor oil, triacetin, dimethylisosorbide, ethanol, and water, and
combinations thereof. The cosmetically acceptable carrier constitutes from about
50% to about 99.99%, by weight, of the composition, more preferably from about
80% to about 95%, by weight, of the composition. In a particularly preferred
embodiment, the composition includes at least about 25% by weight water, more
preferably at least about 50% by weight water.
Various compounds may be added to the formulation to alter osmolarity
and/or pH to acceptable levels. These include, but are not limited to, mannitol,
sucrose, calcium chloride, sodium chloride, sodium phosphate monobasic, sodium
phosphate dibasic, sodium hydroxide, and hydrochloric acid.
The compositions may be made into a wide variety of cosmetic articles that
include but are not limited to lotions, creams, gels, sticks, sprays, ointments,
cleansing liquid washes and solid bars, shampoos and hair conditioners, pastes,
foams, powders, mousses, shaving creams, wipes, strips, patches, electrically-
powered patches, wound dressing and adhesive bandages, hydrogels, film-forming
products, facial and skin masks, make-up such as foundations, eye liners, and eye
shadows, and the like.
These product types may contain several types of cosmetically acceptable
carriers including, but not limited to solutions, suspensions, emulsions such as
microemulsions and nanoemulsions, gels, solids and liposomes. Other carriers can
be formulated by those of ordinary skill in the art. In order to facilitate the
formulation of a suitable vehicle, one may include any of various functional
ingredients in the composition. For example, one may include any of a number of
emollients, humectants, pH adjusters, sequesterants, emulsifiers, wetting agents,
thickeners, polymers, preservatives, colorants, fragrances, and other ingredients
commonly used in personal care and cosmetic products. The pH chosen is not
critical, but may be in a range, for example that is from about 4 to about 8, such as
from about 5 to about 7.
Additional Cosmetically Active Agents
In one embodiment, the compositions according to this invention may further
contain one or more additional cosmetically active agent(s) as well as the above-
mentioned components. What is meant by a "cosmetically active agent" is a
compound, which may be a synthetic compound or a compound extracted, isolated,
purified or concentrated from a natural source, or a natural extract containing a
mixture of compounds, that has a cosmetic or therapeutic effect on the tissue,
including, but not limited to: anti-microbial agents such as anti-yeast, anti-fungal,
and anti-bacterial agents, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-aging agents, anti-parasite
agents, antioxidants, keratolytic agents, nutrients, vitamins, minerals, energy
enhancers, and the like.
Examples of vitamins that may be constituents of the compositions of this
invention include, but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin Bs such as vitamin B3,
vitamin B5, vitamin B7 and vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E such as
alpha, gamma or delta-tocopherol, and their derivatives (such as salts and esters) and
mixtures thereof.
Examples of antioxidants which may be utilized in the compositions and
methods of this invention include, but are not limited to, water-soluble antioxidants
such as sulfhydryl compounds and their derivatives (e.g., sodium metabisulfite and
N-acetyl-cysteine), lipoic acid and dihydrolipoic acid, resveratrol, lactoferrin, and
ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid derivatives (e.g., ascorbyl palmitate and ascorbyl
polypeptide). Oil-soluble antioxidants suitable for use in the compositions of this
invention include, but are not limited to, butylated hydroxytoluene, retinoids (e.g.,
retinol and retinyl palmitate), different types of tocopherols (e.g., alpha-, gamma-,
and delta-tocopherols and their esters such as acetate) and their mixtures,
tocotrienols, and ubiquinone. Natural extracts containing antioxidants suitable for
use in the compositions of this invention include, but are not limited to, extracts
containing flavinoid, isoflavinoid, and their derivatives such as genistein and
diadzein (e.g., such as soy and clover extracts, extracts containing resveratrol and
the like.
Other Materials
Various other materials may also be present in the compositions useful in the
subject invention. These include proteins and polypeptides, preservatives and an
alkaline agent. Examples of such agents are disclosed in the 2008 International
Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, 12th Edition published by the
Personal Care Products Council).
The present invention is further defined in the following Examples. It should
be understood that these Examples, while indicating preferred embodiments of the
invention, are given by way of illustration only.
Examples
Example I: Tropoelastin Promotion Assay
Various samples were prepared using the following extracts: Continus
coggygria (from Bilkokoop of Sofia, Bulgaria), Tanacetum parthenium (20% active,
parthenolide-free feverfew extract from Integrated Botanical Technologies of
Ossining, NY), Rubus fruticosus (10% active, SymMatrix, from Symrise), and
Peucedanum graveolens (10%) active, Lys'lastin, from BASF). The extracts were
diluted in cell culture media (DMEM Media of Invitrogen, San Diego CA) to the
concentration of "active" extract as indicated in Table 1 below. Blackberry extract
was pre-diluted in sufficient ethanol in order to prepare a homogeneous mixture
prior to dilution with cell culture media. The concentration of ethanol in the samples
was about 1%.
Each sample was subjected to the Tropoelastin Promoter Assay. The results
are shown in Table 1.

The blackberry extract provided the greatest tropoelastin promotion,
followed by significant tropoelastin promotion for the feverfew extract and the
cotinus extract. In contrast, the dill extract, even at a high concentration, provided
no tropoelastin promotion.
Example II: Preparation of Compositions
The following compositions according to the invention, Compositions 1 and
2, were prepared using the ingredients shown in Table 2 and Table 3, respectively.

VERSENE is available from Dow Chemical of Midland, Michigan.
ULTREZ/CARBOMER is available from Lubrizol Corporation of Wickliffe, Ohio
BRIJ is available from ICI-Uniquema-AkzoNobel of Amsterdam, Netherlands
FINSOLV is available from Finetex Corporation of Elmwood, Park, NJ
MIRASIL is available from Rhodia Group of Cranbury, NJ
PHENONIP is available from Clariant Functional Chemicals of Woodlands, Texas
LYS'LASTINE is available from BASF of Parsippany, New Jersey
SymMatrix is available from Symrise Inc. of Teterboro, NJ
Composition 1 was prepared as follows. An oil phase was prepared by
adding C 12-15 alkyl benzoate to a clean glass beaker. Agitation was begun and the
vessel was heated to 55-60° C. When the oil phase reached 55C or higher, Brij 72
and Brij 721 were added. When the oil phase reached 55-60° C, it was held at that
temperature and mixed for 15 min (or until uniform). The temperature was then
held at 55-60° C with mixing until addition to water phase.
A water phase was prepared by adding water to a clean glass beaker.
Agitation was begun and the vessel was heated to 55-60° C. Disodium EDTA and
Ultrez 10 were added. At 55-60° C, the ingredients were mixed for 15 min or until
homogeneous. The temperature was then held at 55-60° C with mixing for phasing.
The oil phase was added to the water phase with increased agitation and then
mixed at high speed for 10-20 min. At 50° C or lower, dimethicone was added. At
40° C or lower, Phenonip XB was added. The phases were then mixed for 10 min or
until uniform. Sodium hydroxide was added (target pH was 5.4). The composition
was then mixed for 10 min or until uniform. Lys' Lastine and SymMatrix were then
added. This was mixed until uniform. Water was then added to QS and the
composition was then mixed for 10 minutes. The concentration of blackberry
extract and dill extract, on an actives basis, in the final composition were each 1%.
HYDROVANCE and STRUCTURE XL are available from AkzoNobel.
AMIGEL is available from Alban Muller International of Miami, Florida.
Methyl paraben is available from Alfa Aesar of Ward Hill, Massachusetts
DUB VCI is available from Stearinerie Dubois of Aylesbury, UK
EMULIUM is available from Gattefosse of St-Priest, France
DC 1413 is available from Dow Corning of Midland, Michigan
MICROPEARL is available from Seppic of Fairfield, New Jersey
Composition 2 was prepared as follows. An oil phase was prepared by
adding to a vessel DUB VCI, isononyl isonanoate, MIRASIL, EMULIUM, BHT,
propylparaben, ethylpataben, and tocopherol acetate while mixing and heating to 80°
C.
A water phase was prepared by adding water to a vessel and adding
STRUCURE XL and EDTA. Heat was applied and HYDROVANCE and glycerin
were added. When the water phase reached 40° C, AMIGEL was added. When the
water phase reached 75 °C, caffeine and methylparaben were added.
The water phase and oil phase were combined at 80°C and allowed to cool.
At 35°C MICROPEARL, phenoxyethanol, fragrance, PEG-8, retinol, and CL 14700
were added. When the mixture cooled to 20° C alcohol was added. The
concentration of blackberry extract and dill extract, on an actives basis, in the final
composition were each 1 %.
A Comparative Composition A (placebo) was prepared using ingredients
shown in shown in Table 4.
DC 200 Fluid lOOcst is available from Dow Corning of Midland, Michigan
SEPIGEL 305 is available from Seppic of Fairfield, New Jersey
Comparative Composition A was made as follows. Water and propylene
glycol were added to a clean glass beaker and agitation was begun. The vessel was
heated to 40-45°C. This water phase was mixed for 15 minutes or until
homogeneous. BHT, Glycerin, and DC 200 Fluid were then added and mixed at
high speed for 10-20 min. This was allowed to cool. At 40°C or lower, Phenonip
XB was added. This was mixed for 10 min or until uniform. Sepigel 305 was then
added and the ingredients were mixed for 10 min or until uniform and then allowed
to cool to room temperature. This sample served as a placebo (no active).
A Comparative Composition B was prepared using ingredients shown in
shown in Table 5.
Cotinus (10% extract in water) is available from Symrise Inc. of Teterboro, NJ
Comparative Composition B was prepared in a manner similar to
Comparative Composition A, except that Cotinus extract was added to the vessel
after it had cooled to room temperature and the mixture was mixed for another 10
minutes. The final composition had a concentration of Cotinus extract of 2%, on an
actives basis.
A Comparative Composition C was prepared using ingredients identical to
those shown for Comparative Composition A, except that 20% of Rubus fructicosis
extract was included and a corresponding amount of water was excluded. Rubus
fructicosis extract was premixed into a slurry with the propylene glycol and this
premix was added to the vessel after the batch had cooled to room temperature,
following which the mixture was mixed for another 10 minutes. The final
composition had a concentration of Rubus fructicosis extract that was 2%, on an
actives basis.
A Comparative Composition D was prepared using ingredients identical to
those shown for Comparative Composition A, except that 10% of Lys'Lastine (dill
extract) was included and a corresponding amount of water was excluded. The
Lys'Lastine was premixed into a slurry with the propylene glycol and this premix
was added to the vessel after the batch had cooled to room temperature, following
which the mixture was mixed for another 10 minutes. The final composition had a
concentration of Lys'Lastine that was 1%, on an actives basis.
Cutometer Test
Compositions 1 and 2, and Comparative Compositions A-D were used in a
clinical study conducted with 50 human subjects (female, between the ages of 35
and 50). Each subject was randomly assigned two different compositions to use
over the course of the study. Following treatment with the compositions, the
subjects were subjected to a cutometer test as described below. The cutometer test
provides an in-vivo, quantitative measurement of properties associated with skin
elasticity.
On each of the subjects, a pea-size amount of a first composition was applied
on the upper-inner arm twice daily for 12 weeks. A second composition was applied
on the subject's other arm in the same manner. Cutometer SEM 580 (available from
Courage & Khazaka of Koln, Germany) measurements were taken on the center of
each upper-inner arm to assess the visco-elastic properties of the skin at the site of
application. The instrument applied a 400 mbar vacuum through a 2-millimeter
probe to a small area of skin for two seconds. The elastic response of the skin was
then measured by an optical technique. This method provides the following
deformation parameters relating to skin elasticity: "Gross Elasticity" and "Elastic
Recovery Rate."
The results of are shown in Table 6.
Quite surprisingly, Composition 1 containing both 1% Rubus fruticosus and
1% Peucedanum graveolens demonstrated a synergistic improvement in skin
elasticity. The combined effect was greater than the sum of the separate effects of
even 2% Rubus fruticosus and 1% Peucedanum graveolens alone. In fact, the
improvement in elasticity for Composition 1 containing both 1% Rubus fruticosus
and 1% Peucedanum graveolens was more than triple that of the sum of the separate
effects of 2% Rubus fruticosus (CompositionC) and 1 % Peucedanum graveolens
(Composition D). Furthermore, this surprising synergy held for both gross elasticity
and net increase in elastic recovery.
We Claim:
1. A cosmetic composition comprising: (a) at least one tropoelastin promoter;
and (b) at least one tropoelastin crosslinker.
2. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter is selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus
extract, feverfew extract, bimetal complexes having copper and/or zinc constituents,
and combinations thereof.
3. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter is selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus
extract, feverfew extract, and combinations thereof.
4. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter comprises blackberry leaf extract.
5. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
cross-linker is selected from the group consisting of dill extract, currant extract,
cardamom extract, black radish extract, box holly extract, Asafoetida extract, ethyl
hexenoate, methyl butyrate, ethyl decadienoate, and combinations thereof.
6. Thecosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
cross-linker comprises dill extract.
7. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter comprises blackberry extract and said tropoelastin cross-linker is selected
from the group consisting of dill extract, currant extract, cardamom extract, black
radish extract, box holly extract, Asafoetida extract, ethyl hexenoate, methyl
butyrate, ethyl decadienoate, and combinations thereof.
8. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter is selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus
extract, and feverfew extract, and said tropoelastin cross-linker comprises dill
extract.
9. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter is present in an amount comprising from about 0.1% to about 10% by
weight of the composition.
10. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter is present in an amount comprising from about 0.5% to about 5% by
weight of the composition.
11. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
crosslinker is present in an amount comprising about 0.1% to about 10% by weight
of the composition.
12. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
crosslinker is present in an amount comprising about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of
the composition.
13. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter comprises blackberry extract and said tropoelastin crosslinker comprises
dill extract.
14. The cosmetic composition according to claim 1, wherein said tropoelastin
promoter has a Tropoelastin Promoter Activity of at least about 1.2.
15. A method of treating a sign of skin aging, comprising topically applying to
skin in need of such treatment a cosmetically effective amount of a composition
comprising (a) at least one tropoelastin promoter; and (b) at least one tropoelastin
crosslinker.
16. The method according to claim 15, wherein said sign of skin aging is
selected from the group consisting of lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, uneven skin,
blotches, and age spots.
17. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter is
selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus extract,
feverfew extract, bimetal complexes having copper and/or zinc constituents, and
combinations thereof.
18. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter is
selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus extract,
feverfew extract, and combinations thereof.
19. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter
comprises blackberry leaf extract.
20. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin cross-linker is
selected from the group consisting of dill extract, currant extract, cardamom extract,
black radish extract, box holly extract, Asafoetida extract, ethyl hexenoate, methyl
butyrate, ethyl decadienoate, and combinations thereof.
21. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin cross-linker
comprises dill extract.
22. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter
comprises blackberry extract and said tropoelastin cross-linker is selected from the
group consisting of dill extract, currant extract, cardamom extract, black radish
extract, box holly extract, Asafoetida extract, ethyl hexenoate, methyl butyrate, ethyl
decadienoate, and combinations thereof.
23. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter is
selected from the group consisting of blackberry leaf extract, cotinus extract, and
feverfew extract, and said tropoelastin cross-linker comprises dill extract.
24. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter is
present in an amount comprising from about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the
composition.
25. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter is
present in an amount comprising from about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the
composition.
26. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin crosslinker is
present in an amount comprising about 0.1% to about 10% by weight of the
composition.
27. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin crosslinker is
present in an amount comprising about 0.5% to about 5% by weight of the
composition.
28. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter
comprises blackberry extract and said tropoelastin crosslinker comprises dill extract.
29. The method according to claim 15, wherein said tropoelastin promoter has a
Tropoelastin Promoter Activity of at least about 1.2.

The invention relates to methods and compositions for treating skin aging,
said compositions comprising at least one tropoelastin promoter and at least one
tropoelastin crosslinker.