The Amorepacific R&I Center has successfully identified a pivotal substance present within youthful and healthy skin, achieved through an integrated analysis of the skin microbiome and surface metabolites. These groundbreaking research findings were published in the online edition of the international microbiology journal International Microbiology this past April. (Paper Title: Integrated analysis of age-related microbiome and metabolites reveals youth-associated metabolites in young Korean women's skin)
Amorepacific has consistently advanced research into the skin microbiome, focusing on the profound impact that microorganisms coexisting with the skin exert upon dermatological health and the skin aging process. Beyond merely analyzing the composition and transformative patterns of the skin's microbiota, the company has continuously enhanced its capacity for research by illuminating the correlations between these microbes and the skin barrier, immune system, and aging mechanisms. This recent paper serves as the result of an integrated analysis bridging skin microorganisms and surface metabolites, firmly grounded upon this legacy of scientific achievement.
By conducting an integrated analysis of the skin microbiome and surface metabolites specifically focusing on Korean women, this study identified phenyllactic acid (PLA)—a distinct metabolite found universally at elevated levels in young, radiantly healthy skin.
Most notably, in vitro cellular studies confirmed that PLA actively stimulates the production of collagen, a crucial component for maintaining the skin's resilience, while concurrently inhibiting the activity of collagen-degrading enzymes. This compelling outcome demonstrates that substances generated by skin microbiota can exert a direct influence on skin aging.
This pioneering study transcends conventional approaches that interpreted skin aging primarily through the lens of chronological age. It illustrates that by holistically considering the functions of skin microbiota alongside the specific substances they produce, we can achieve a more precise understanding of the skin's overall condition. Going a step further, the researchers established from a multi-dimensional perspective that the skin microbiome is not merely a 'co-existing ecosystem,' but rather an 'active partner' that dictates the fundamental state of skin health. Amorepacific expects that these research findings will serve as foundational data for forging personalized skin diagnostics and developing next-generation functional ingredients grounded in microbiome science.
Leveraging this breakthrough, Amorepacific plans to deepen its understanding of the unique characteristics inherent to youthful skin. Building upon this insight, the company will expand its research into next-generation 'Skin Longevity' ingredients—designed to cultivate healthy skin that transcends one's actual age. Looking ahead, the transformative technologies relating to microbiome-derived metabolites uncovered in this study are expected to be applied across an extensive array of innovative skincare product developments.
Byung-Fhy Brian Suh, CTO of the Amorepacific R&I Center, observed, "Amorepacific has strived to understand skin health at its most fundamental level through long-term research into the skin microbiome, and this study holds profound significance in that isolated a core substance directly linked to youthful and healthy skin." He continued, "We remain steadfast in our commitment to research under the guiding perspective of a 'Holistic Longevity Solution,' an approach designed to empower the skin to remain healthy on its own and cultivate a complexion that defies age and radiates vitality."