THE WHAT? Shiseido has discovered a previously unidentified ring-shaped collagen structure, named Ring Collagen®, which helps generate skin tension to maintain facial shape and may play a key role in reducing age-related sagging.
THE DETAILS The discovery was made in collaboration with researchers from the International University of Health and Welfare, Jichi Medical University and the National Institute for Physiological Sciences. Shiseido found that Ring Collagen® forms around vellus hairs and sebaceous glands, generating tension that helps maintain a firm facial appearance. The company also developed a new AI-powered 3D visualisation technology, Digital-Skin Reality®, to analyse the forces generated within the skin. Research showed that the Ring Collagen® structure deteriorates with age as proteoglycan levels decline, contributing to sagging. Moderate physical stimulation, together with rosehip extract and safflower (benibana) extract, was found to improve Ring Collagen® structure by increasing proteoglycan-related activity. The research was presented at the International Federation of Societies of Cosmetic Chemists (IFSCC) Congress, where it was selected as a top 10 finalist.
THE WHY? The findings provide new insight into the biological mechanisms behind skin ageing and could support the development of future skincare technologies and ingredients designed to improve skin firmness and reduce sagging.
Source: Shiseido
