Effects of <b><i>Aloe</i></b> Sterol Supplementation on Skin Elasticity, Hydration, and Collagen Score: A 12-Week Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial

<b><i>Background/Aims:</i></b> Our previous study confirmed that <i>Aloe</i> sterol stimulates collagen and hyaluronic acid production in human dermal fibroblasts. This study aims to investigate whether <i>Aloe</i> sterol intake affects skin conditions. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> We performed a 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the effects of oral <i>Aloe</i> sterol supplementation on skin elasticity, hydration, and the collagen score in 64 healthy women (age range 30-59 years; average 44.3 years) who were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo or an <i>Aloe</i> sterol-supplemented yogurt. Skin parameters were measured and ultrasound analysis of the forearm was performed. <b><i>Results:</i></b> ANCOVA revealed statistical differences in skin moisture, transepidermal water loss, skin elasticity, and collagen score between the <i>Aloe</i> sterol and placebo groups. The gross elasticity (R2), net elasticity (R5), and biological elasticity (R7) scores of the <i>Aloe</i> sterol group significantly increased with time. In addition, skin fatigue area F3, which is known to decrease with age and fatigue, also increased with <i>Aloe</i> sterol intake. Ultrasound echogenicity revealed that the collagen content in the dermis increased with <i>Aloe</i> sterol intake. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> The results suggest that continued <i>Aloe</i> sterol ingestion contributes to maintaining healthy skin.