28 MENOPAUSAL SKIN CARE
deterioration. This active demonstrates a capacity to reduce the secretion of MMP-2, MMP-3 and MMP-9 respectively by -44%***, -35%*** and -32%*** compared to untreated (in vitro multiplex immunoassay in human fibroblasts of MMPs secretion after 72-hour incubation with 0.1% active). It also lowers pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6
and IL-8 production by -30%*** and -59%*** (in vitro multiplex immunoassay in human fibroblasts of cytokines 48 hours after TNF-α stress induction and pre-incubation 1h with 0.01% active. ***p<0.001). Taken together, the in vitro results indicate that this active ingredient improved a set of hallmarks of ferroptosis in skin such as glutathione restoration, reduced lipid and protein oxidation, preserved mitochondrial integrity, and modulated stress-related mediators. It is then particularly adapted to skin conditions related to menopause.
Clinically proven efficacy Clinical efficacy was evaluated with 0.1% SAG in a leave-on product applied twice daily for four weeks in a double-blind, randomized, half-face, placebo-controlled study involving 33 post- menopause women in early menopause (on average: four years). SAG demonstrates significant improvements
across multiple parameters of menopausal skin ageing. As scored by an expert, crow’s feet wrinkles are reduced by -7%** (Figure 4), radiance improved by +16%** (Figure 5) and skin tone evenness increased by +9%** (Figure 6). These parameters are particularly important for menopausal consumers, as loss of radiance and dull complexion are among the most frequently cited concerns. Panelists also reported a +40%*** (vs baseline)
improvement in healthy glow when using products containing SAG, reflecting both expert grading and subjective perception of skin vitality. Overall score of skin quality was improved by 9%***compared to basal state. Finally, levels of MDA were measured in the
stratum corneum to evaluate in vivo the lipid peroxidation and a FRAP assay was performed to measure antioxidant capacity of the skin.
A 49*** 42 40 41 D0 D28
Figure 6: More even tone. Images taken under cross-polarized lighting mode After four weeks, a significant decrease of MDA
content (-8%*** vs placebo) and an increase in skin antioxidant capacity (+13%*** vs placebo) were observed (Figure 7, *** p<0.001). SAG maintains a healthier cellular environment on the volunteer’s skin, reducing the pro-ferroptotic environment in post-menopausal skin, in line with the in vitro results.
Conclusion Menopausal skin ageing has been largely overlooked or addressed with generic anti-ageing ingredients. Skinosya SAG, produced through precision fermentation and clinically validated in post-menopausal populations, is an active ingredient of choice to target iron-dependent oxidative pathways. By strengthening the skin’s natural defense
systems against ferroptosis in particular, and oxidative stress more generally, the ingredient can help improve post-menopausal skin ageing. It may also contribute to slowing down the skin’s ageing process globally by targeting general hallmarks of ageing: DNA damage, loss of proteostasis, mitochondrial dysfunction, chronic inflammation and ECM changes and offering benefits that reach beyond the specific context of menopause. S-Acetyl Glutathione is a relevant ingredient
B 2.9 2.6*** 2.8 2.8
in face and body care, and in make-up formulas for menopausal ageing, well-ageing, antioxidant, illuminating, even tone, and glow benefits.
References 1. A year of innovation in facial skincare, Mintel, 2026
2. Private label: thriving with age, Mintel, 2024 3. Google Trends, June 2026 4. Mintel, Global New Product Database 5. Zouboulis CC, Blume-Peytavi U, Kosmadaki M, Roó E, Vexiau-Robert D, Kerob D, Goldstein SR. Skin, hair and beyond: the impact of menopause. Climacteric, 2022; 25(5), 434–442
6. Pelle E et al. Menopause increases the iron storage protein ferritin in skin. J Cosmet Sci. 2013; 64(3), 175–179.
7. Liang D et al. Ferroptosis surveillance independent of GPX4 and differentially regulated by sex hormones. Cell. 2023; 186(13), 2748-2764.e22
8. Rezzani R, Favero G, Cominelli G, Pinto D, Rinaldi F. Skin Aging and the Upcoming Role of Ferroptosis in Geroscience. Int J Mol Sci, 2024; 25(15)
9. Tonnus W et al. Multiple oestradiol functions inhibit ferroptosis and acute kidney injury. Nature. 2025; 645(8082), 1011–1019
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D0 SAG Figure 7: (A) MDA dosage and (B) FRAP assay on skin sample (stripping) before and after four weeks of product application PERSONAL CARE MAGAZINE September 2026
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