Isoflavones: puerarin and its benefits for the skin

Puerarin is a truly distinctive isoflavone. Renowned for its properties, it is extracted from the root of Pueraria lobata, also known as Kudzu. This Asian climbing plant has captured the attention of the scientific and cosmeceutical communities for its cell-protective properties.

Its benefits extend remarkably successfully to the field of skincare. This is due to the distinctive chemical structure of the isoflavone, which, thanks to its phenolic groups, is capable of neutralizing free radicals, thereby protecting the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage.

To fully understand its importance, it is useful to remember that free radicals are unstable and reactive molecules that can cause cellular damage, accelerating the aging process. Acting like a shield, puerarin helps protect skin cells.

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What are isoflavones?

Isoflavones are phytoestrogens, polyphenolic compounds found in leguminous plants. Their chemical structure is similar to that of endogenous estrogens, giving them the ability to interact with certain receptors in the human body.

In cosmeceuticals, this is particularly important in counteracting the biological processes underlying premature skin aging. One of the main attributes of isoflavones is their recognized antioxidant activity: they act by stabilizing molecules that could otherwise cause cellular damage.

Recent research also suggests that they may help counteract damage caused by UV rays, one of the main factors behind premature skin aging: through their antioxidant action, isoflavones can neutralize some of the free radicals generated by sun exposure.

Isoflavones and menopause: the benefits of genistein

During menopause, there is a natural decline in hormones that also affects the skin: tissues become thinner and hydration levels decrease. The skin loses density and firmness, cell turnover slows down, and the complexion appears duller.

Phytoestrogens are used in cosmetics specifically to support the skin through these changes. Soy is rich in them, as is Kudzu, which contains isoflavones such as puerarin and genistein.

Genistein is an interesting isoflavone in cosmetics because its chemical structure is similar to that of estradiol. It can bind to beta-type estrogen receptors (ERβ) found in skin fibroblasts.

Several studies report positive effects from the topical application of isoflavones such as genistein to the skin, including supporting the presence of hyaluronic acid and collagen synthesis.

Genistein also inhibits the tyrosine kinase protein, interfering with the signal transduction process that leads to the degradation of collagen and elastin. This helps maintain the structure of the dermis.

Anyone undergoing hormone therapy or with a history of hormone-sensitive conditions should consult their doctor before taking phytoestrogen-based supplements. The situation is different for topical cosmetic use, but it is still useful information to know.

The benefits of puerarin for the skin

Puerarin is an isoflavone with important skin-protective activities, studied, among others, by the Faculty of Bioengineering at Zhejiang University in China. Its molecules act by capturing free radicals and helping maintain the structural integrity of cells.

This isoflavone has a protective effect on cellular DNA against stressors such as wind and pollution, as well as a protective effect on cellular lipids.

The lipids found in cell membranes are susceptible to oxidation, which damages their structure and function. Thanks to its antioxidant properties, puerarin protects lipids from lipid peroxidation, helping to maintain membrane integrity.

One advantage puerarin has over other isoflavones is its ability to regenerate and restore the effects of other cellular antioxidants, enhancing protection against oxidative stress.

It also acts on the extracellular matrix of the papillary dermis, reducing cell senescence. Finally, its effects extend to the microcirculation, with positive benefits for the skin's radiance and elasticity.

The beneficial properties of Kudzu isoflavones

Kudzu, also known as Pueraria lobata, is a climbing plant native to Japan, China, and Korea. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is now cultivated worldwide. In traditional medicine, it has been used for centuries for its antioxidant properties.

The name Pueraria comes from the Swiss botanist Marc Nicolas Puerari; however, its similarity to “puer” has encouraged the idea of a plant “associated with youth,” a suggestion that fits well with its antioxidant profile.

Kudzu extract is rich in isoflavones, including:

• puerarin
• genistein
• daidzein
• tectorigenin

It also contains other polyphenols with antioxidant activity, including quercetin, which belongs to the flavonol class rather than the isoflavone class.

All of these compounds can counteract inflammatory processes and protect the skin from oxidative stress. This extract promotes an even complexion, supports hydration, and can soothe sensitive skin.

Isoflavones in skincare: the ideal products

Capturing the benefits of active ingredients in skincare products is our work: that is why we have incorporated the benefits of isoflavones into the Collagenetic Serum and the Hyaluronic Advance anti-aging face cream.

Both products, designed for mature skin that needs hydration and protection, act on the extracellular matrix and help to:

• give the face radiance;
• reduce the appearance of wrinkles;
• maintain and increase hydration;
• support skin elasticity.

Face serum and cream are the essential steps in a skincare routine, and it is their combination that allows antioxidant active ingredients to perform at their best.

You can also find LeLang products at our partner pharmacies throughout Italy.