Abstract

Mosses substantially helped changing primitive earth into a green planet before vascular plants even existed. They encode genes and proteins for extraordinary resilience long abandoned by higher plants. Biotechnology offers a sterile production of the moss Physcomitrella patens in a reproducible and sustainable way. MossCellTec™ No. 1 is the first biotechnological moss-based product for cosmetic application.
In our research, we have investigated the importance of cell nucleus health as a novel target for anti-aging cosmetics. Interestingly, the moss extract was able to improve the expression of cell nucleus health markers in aged skin cells. Additionally, the active ingredient could improve the hot-humid/cold-dry adaptation of reconstructed skin and improved skin homogeneity, barrier and hydration despite stressful weather conditions in a placebo-controlled clinical study. The moss active may therefore enhance the general resilience of the skin against environmental changes.