Firmness decreases are a hallmark of skin aging. Chronic sun exposure accelerates fundamental changes within the dermal extracellular matrix over the years, mainly impairing the collagenous network.
Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with skin aging, probably due to oxidative stress, which leads to collagen breakdown and decreased elasticity and firmness of the skin. Clinical studies (1) reported the efficacy of folate in a blend with creatine for treating photo-aged skin.
The benefits of folate were:
- An improvement in skin elasticity and firmness
- A reduction of wrinkle volume
- Tactile roughness
Folate’s underlying mechanisms of action are stimulation of DNA synthesis and repair, which are important for accelerating skin regeneration. Folate was shown to improve collagen metabolism, which is associated with skin elasticity and firmness.
The skin protects against exposure to sunlight, such as ultraviolet radiation (UVR), and skin color directly relates to the intensity of the local UV spectrum.
Exposure to light in the presence of photosensitizers stimulates 5-MTHF’s oxidation. This implicates the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) following folate degradation, especially in human tissues such as skin and even blood vessels in the case of UVA radiation.
Studies show that chronic exposure can reduce long-term systemic folate levels that support many biochemical processes necessary for the maintenance and function of healthy skin.
Quatrefolic® supplementation replenishes the essential folate levels required to protect the skin from the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.
Brittle nails may be a symptom of folate deficiency.
Quatrefolic® promotes healthy nail growth and plays a vital role in developing red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body, including extremities such as fingernails and toenails.
Active folate, such as Quatrefolic®, supports cell division and DNA synthesis in the hair follicles.
It contributes to the overall strength and vitality of the hair, and it aids in tissue repair and growth, which is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp.
