The effect of an oral supplement containing glucosamine, amino acids, minerals, and antioxidants on cutaneous aging: a preliminary study

BACKGROUND: Alterations in collagen, elastin, and glycosaminoglycans contri bute to cutaneous changes seen in aging skin. METHODS: A randomized, controlled, single-blind study was conducted with 53 female volunteers who were supplied with an oral supplement containing glu cosamine, amino acids, minerals, and various antioxidant compounds. Hydrati on properties of the skin as well as textural analysis of the women's fine lines and wrinkles were assessed following 5 weeks intake of the oral suppl ement and results were compared with those of a control group of 12 individ uals who did not take the supplement RESULTS: There was a statistically significant reduction (34%) in the numbe r of visible wrinkles as measured by the silfo replicas (P < 0.01) and a re duction (34%) in the number of fine lines (P < 0.06) in the group of women who took the supplement. No significant changes in epidermal hydration were observed in either the control or study groups. CONCLUSION: The use of an oral supplement containing glucosamine, minerals, and various antioxidant compounds can potentially improve the appearance o f visible wrinkles and fine lines. It does not, however, affect epidermal h ydration.