Epidermal stem cells are the only cells that have the capacity to generate new cells for skin renewal. However, as the years go by, the rate of cell proliferation is reduced and consequently cell turnover slows down.
PhytoCellTec Symphytum from Mibelle has clearly been shown to boost the regenerative power of epidermal stem cells and their ability to build new tissue. For this study a novel cell culture assay based on a culture medium which mimics the tissue environment of aged skin was developed. PhytoCellTec Symphytum was found to stimulate the proliferation of isolated epidermis stem cells cultured in this ageing medium and to enhance the synthesis of hyaluronic acid in 3D epidermis models formed by these epidermal stem cells. In a vehicle-controlled clinical study, PhytoCellTec Symphytum significantly increased the epidermal turnover rate and skin smoothness after four weeks of application. PhytoCellTec Symphytum is based on stem cells from comfrey, which is an old medicinal plant known for its healing properties. The innovative PhytoCellTec technology – which was recognised at the UNO Conference Rio+20 as an eco-breakthrough – delivers a highly sustainable sourcing of this active.
