Capsicum is generally recognized for its content of capsaicin, the active responsible for the hot burning sensation when chilies are ingested. While Capsaicin has been used as a topical analgesic to treat pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
FSS DermaPeptide Micro C
Preserved with Leucidal Liquid
Red Pepper or Capsicum annuum has been used for a variety of medicinal applications ranging from digestive to analgesic. Cultivated for more than 7,000 years the fruit of this plant has wide spread importance both nutritionally and economically.
Capsicum is generally recognized for its content of capsaicin, the active responsible for the hot burning sensation when chilies are ingested. While Capsaicin has been used as a topical analgesic to treat pain and inflammation associated with arthritis there is often associated redness. Capsaicin’s role in relation to the reduction of pain is complex. On one hand Capsaicin has the ability to bind to the Vallinoid Receptor (VR-1), which acts as a polymodal integrator for noxious stimuli. An ability which is shared by various lipoxygenase products as well as some more common phytochemicals such as eugenol, zingerone, vanillin and cannabanoids. VR-1 a member of the transient receptor potential (TRP) super family acts by modulating cellular calcium levels.
Capsaicin has been shown to induce apoptosis in many types of cancer cells. It is now thought that this is due to the localized increase in reactive oxygen species. This is only part of the story with regard to activity of Capsicum because it is clear that there are other components present in the fruit of the plant that can mobilize immune function4. Perhaps more importantly Capsaicin inhibits angiogenesis. It is somewhat interesting that a product known to produce redness inhibits angiogenesis. The erythema found with topical application is no doubt a result of the increased ROS levels and not directly a result of increased circulation.
But as with most plants, the activity of a single purified phytochemical does not always explain the activity of a less refined extract. Capsicum has widely been show to contain a high level of antioxidants ranging from ascorbic acid and glutathione to more robust enzymes such as Superoxide Dismutase.
It has also been shown that by fermenting Capsicum a product is formed that will increase glutathione levels while at the same time stimulating immune function. This provided an interesting starting point for a new product. What if we were able to provide some of the benefits of a Capsicum extract without any of the associated irritation?
In an effort to achieve that goal we fermented the macerated fruit of Capsicum annuum with Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This approach was intended to combine the anti-irritant benefits of a yeast extract with the known properties of Capsicum. What we found however was a product that increased circulation without producing associated visual erythema. As the epidermis contains no blood vessels it is nourished by diffusion from the dermis. In order to have healthy radiant skin it is critical to have optimal circulation.
Microvascular perfusion was measured using the PeriScan System, which is a Laser Doppler Perfusion Imaging system intended for non-invasive imaging of superficial tissure blood perfusion. The reported results are relative to biological control. A 5-subject panel consisting of 5 Caucasian females between the ages of 32 and 43 was assembled and provided with two products: one containing 1% of FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF and another containing 3% of FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF. To ensure accuracy for all tests, panelists abstained from using lotions, creams or any other cosmetic moisturizers on the test site for a period of three days prior to the tests’ initiation. The test area was located on the inner forearm region between the wrist and elbow. A gentian violet surgical skin marker and standard template delineated two 2 cm by 2 cm (4cm2) test sites. 1% and 3% FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF products were applied at a concentration of 2,0 mg/cm2 for three consecutive days. The results clearly indicate that FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF significantly increases dermal circulation for improved epidermal dispersion.
The same 5 subject panel was used to determine whether or not the use of FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF induces epithelial erythema using a Minolta CR-200 Chromameter interfaced with a DP-100 Color Computer System. This system detects subtle changes in color that are imperceptible to the human eye. Although no human erythema is detected with the human eye with the use of either 1% or 3% FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF, a slight color change is detectable when using the Minolta CR-200.
During the fermentation process a biotransformation takes place, which creates a capsaicinoid that has increased solubility, additional cell metabolism increasing factors and anti-irritant properties. Unlike most capsicum extracts, FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF contains a functional active capsaicinoid that is water soluble. Cell metabolism factors are important for maintaining skin clarity and create a “healthy glow”. While collagen synthesis is important for the improvement of skin’s resiliency, elasticity and texture. Additionally an increase in collagen synthesis is equated with an improvement in the appearance of firm and supple skin.
FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF is useful in a variety of cosmetic and cosmeceutical products, which range from anti-aging creams and skin clarifiers to soothing warming lotions and gels.
FSS DermaPeptide MicroC PF:
Improves the overall appearance of the complexion.
Stimulates increased circulation for epidermal diffusion
Creates a healthy glow.
Increased absorption of other actives.
Soothes irritated skin.
Induces collagen synthesis
INCI Nomenclature: Saccharomyces/Capsicum Annuum Fruit Ferment Filtrate
Appearance: Hazy Amber Liquid
Suggested Use Levels: 0.5-15%
Suggested Applications: Collagen synthesis, Increased circulation, Anti-irritant
pH: 4.5-6.5
Storage: Protected from direct light and humidity at a temperature of 50°-77°F (10°-25°C)
Shelf life: 12 months from the date of manufacture.
This product should be added to a formulation at the recommended usage rate.
All products sold are cosmetic grade; External Use Only; Cosmetic & Personal Care Formulations Only.
References:
1. Caterina MJ, Schumacher MA, Tominaga M, Rosen TA, Levine JD, and Julius D (1997) The capsaicin receptor: a heat-activated ion channel in the pain
pathway. Nature (Lond) 389: 816–824
2. Hwang SW, Cho H, Kwak J, Lee SY, Kang CJ, Jung J, Cho S, Min KH, Sur YG, Kim D, et al. (2000) Direct activation of capsaicin receptors by products of
lipoxygenases: endogenous capsaicin-like substances. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 97: 6155–6160
3. Lee YS, Kang YS, Lee JS, Nicolova S, Kim JA (2004) Involvement of NADPH oxidase-mediated generation of reactive oxygen species in the apototic cell
death by capsaicin in HepG2human hepatoma cells. Free Radic Res. Apr;38(4):405-12.
4. Paik SY, Ra KS, Chang IS, Park YC, Park HS, Baik HS, Yun JW, ChoiJW (2003) Purification and characterization of complement-activating acid poly-
saccharides from the fruits of Capsicum annuum. J Biochem Mol Biol.Mar 31;36(2):230-6.
5. Jeong-Ki Min, Kyu-Yeon Han, Eok-Cheon Kim, Young-Myeong Kim, Sae-Won Lee, Ok-Hee Kim, Kyu-Won Kim, Yong Song Gho, and Young-Guen Kwon
(2004) Capsaicin Inhibits in Vitro and in Vivo Angiogenesis CANCER RESEARCH 64, 644–651, January 15
6. Choi YM, Suh HJ (2004) Pharmacological effects of fermented red pepper. Phytother Res. Nov;18(11):884-8.
Our products are for cosmetic and personal care formulations only; External Use Only. We recommend working with a chemist or a formulator if you’re not advanced in formulating.
Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure, or prevent disease.
