Uute Scientific, a Finnish company which develops inactivated microbe extracts from forest soil- and plant-based materials for use in cosmetics, has revealed a skin emulsion study has confirmed previous university research on the positive immunological effect of contact with nature.
Previous studies have found that repeated exposure to natural biodiversity lowers the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, thereby reducing the risk of developing inflammation-mediated diseases.
Uute Scientific says its Re-Connecting Nature microbial extract is an “easy way to renew this exposure”.
“Re-Connecting Nature is a patented and pioneering microbial extract developed at the Universities of Tampere and Helsinki. It mimics the diverse microbial communities found in Finland's unique habitats,” the company said.
“When Re-Connecting Nature extract is added to consumer products such as cosmetics, it helps restore exposure to diversity. Currently, the extract is available from a number of domestic cosmetics manufacturers,” it added.
According to the new study, the extract is a solution to a wide range of skin problems.
“We were surprised how versatile the raw material is. Especially in the atopic dermatitis model, the extract showed a statistically significant reduction in the levels of seven pro-inflammatory cytokines," said project leader Johanna Kalmari.
"We are very excited about this result. Our extract may even help people with atopic dermatitis."
The function of the barrier layer and skin regeneration starts to decline with age, and low-grade inflammation has also been observed in ageing skin.
High levels of TNFα inhibit collagen production, and high levels of IFNγ inhibit skin regeneration and repair.
Reducing the levels of these cytokines supports normal skin functions such as protective layer function, regeneration, repair and collagen production.
Therefore, the use of the extract also has particular benefits for ageing skin and in situations where the skin is irritated.
Reducing the levels of specific cytokines relieves skin irritation and redness associated with, for example, sunburn.
