Clinical Trial of Salmon Nasal Cartilage-Derived Proteoglycans on Human Facial Antiaging: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.

Background: Proteoglycans (PGs) derived from salmon nasal cartilage are believed to have antiaging effects on the skin. However, comprehensive evaluations of their impact on various skin parameters in Chinese populations remain limited.

Aims: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of oral PG supplementation in enhancing skin elasticity, hydration, and reducing roughness, wrinkles, and pigmentation in healthy adult volunteers.

Methods: A 56-day randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted involving 66 subjects aged 30-60. Subjects received a daily dose of 20 mg PG, and skin parameters were measured at baseline, 28 days, and 56 days. The study assessed skin elasticity, hydration, roughness, wrinkles, melanin content, and brown spots while monitoring for any adverse effects.

Results: Subjects receiving PG supplementation showed significant improvements in skin elasticity and hydration at both 28 days and 56 days (p < 0.001), with reductions in skin roughness and wrinkles (p < 0.001), and a significant decrease in melanin content and brown spots (p < 0.001). Compared to the placebo group, the PG group exhibited significant improvements in most skin parameters by 56 days, except in the wrinkle area percentage at the crow's feet, where no significant difference was observed. PG was well tolerated, with no adverse effects reported.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that daily oral intake of 20 mg PG effectively improves skin health by enhancing elasticity, hydration, and reducing signs of aging such as wrinkles and pigmentation.