Patent Pick: Chicory and Yeast Extracts Give Skin's HA a Boost

The industry is certainly not short on ideas when it comes to combating the signs of aging. Antiwrinkle, moisturizing, firming and tightening ingredients abound. To this end, hyaluronic acid (HA) has been used in many topical and injectable products for its ability to moisturize skin, fill wrinkles and retain skin's elasticity.

However, according to Johnson & Johnson (J&J) inventors, HA has a limited lifetime in the skin. This is due to innate hyaluronidase enzymes, which decompose the HA and thereby diminish the impact of HA-containing cosmetic compositions. Moreover, the topical penetration of exogenous HA into the skin has proven difficult, and while injectables are effective, they are only temporary.

Another skin treatment comes from the Pichia genus of yeasts, which are rich in mannans. Pichia anomala, in particular, is known for its anti-aging skin benefits. Better yet, in combination with chicory root, Pichia anomala has been found to enhance skin's natural production of HA; a new J&J patent explains.

Pichia anomala yeast and chicory root compositions
European Patent EP3181142 
Publication date: Jan. 17, 2018 
Assignee: Johnson & Johnson Consumer, Inc. 

This invention describes the use of topical extracts of Pichia anomala and chicory root to synergistically enhance the skin's production of HA from within. Specifically disclosed is a topical composition including chicory root extract containing up to 20% glucosamine, and >2% w/w Pichia anomala extract.

This combination was found to provide significant and unexpected benefits for skin, including improving, reducing, inhibiting and/or delaying the appearance of at least one sign of aging. The combination may also enhance skin barrier protection and moisturization.