Collagen plays a fundamental role in maintaining skin structure, but its presence and functionality depend on a combination of biological processes. From synthesis to the organization of the extracellular matrix, through to mechanisms related to cellular senescence and fiber degradation, several factors contribute to preserving skin integrity.

This complexity is precisely the starting point of STEM CELL WAVE, the first chapter of “SURFIN’ THE COLLAGEN”, the campaign developed by Faravelli Cosmetic Division in collaboration with Provital.

Through four biotechnological active ingredients obtained from plant stem cell cultures, we will explore different cosmetic strategies dedicated to collagen: organizing its structure, stimulating its synthesis, promoting matrix renewal, and counteracting its degradation.

CITRUSTEM™ | ORGANIZE IT

Obtained from orange (Citrus sinensis) stem cells, Citrustem™ stands out for its action on the organization of the extracellular matrix.

Its mechanism particularly involves type VI collagen, which plays a structural support role by promoting the interconnection and organization of the different components of the matrix.

In in vitro tests, Citrustem™ at 0.1% increased COL6A1 gene expression to 239% of the control, together with an increase in the expression of ELN, associated with elastin, and ADAMTS2, involved in the correct formation of collagen fibers.

ORCHISTEM™ | BUILD IT

Derived from stem cells of the Calanthe discolor orchid, Orchistem™ acts on communication between adipose tissue stem cells and fibroblasts through the secretome, a set of molecules and growth factors involved in regulating cellular activity.

In in vitro studies, Orchistem™ at 0.5% promoted a 50% increase in TGF-β1, a growth factor associated with collagen synthesis.

The increased cellular communication resulted in a 53% increase in type I collagen synthesis and an 81% increase in elastin, accompanied by improved fibroblast proliferation and migration.

ALTHEOSTEM™ | RENEW IT

Obtained from Althaea rosea stem cells, Altheostem™ introduces an innovative approach to well-aging through its senolytic activity, studied to act selectively on senescent fibroblasts.

In vitro tests show a favorable modulation of the processes regulating the extracellular matrix, with increased expression of COL1A2 and ADAMTS2, genes involved in collagen formation.

At the same time, Altheostem™ reduces the expression of the metalloproteinases MMP7 and MMP9, associated with extracellular matrix degradation.

A dual approach combining cellular renewal with support for the structural integrity of the skin.

LINGOSTEM™ | PROTECT IT

Developed from stem cell cultures of Vaccinium vitis-idaea (lingonberry), Lingostem™ harnesses the potential of plant polyphenols to counteract the effects of oxidative stress induced by solar radiation.

Its role in collagen protection is mainly linked to its action against IR-A radiation, which can promote the production of MMP1, an enzyme responsible for the degradation of collagen fibers.

In in vitro tests on human fibroblasts exposed to IR-A radiation, Lingostem™ demonstrated its ability to reduce MMP1 expression, helping to counteract one of the mechanisms involved in the deterioration of the extracellular matrix.

Four active ingredients, four complementary mechanisms: organize, build, renew, and protect.

With STEM CELL WAVE, SURFIN’ THE COLLAGEN begins a journey to discover the different strategies through which cosmetic research can act on the complex collagen network.

Would you like to learn more about these ingredients and their cosmetic applications?

Contact the Faravelli Cosmetic Division team for more information: cosmetico@faravelli.it