Mycosporine-like Amino Acids from Red Algae Protect against Premature Skin-Aging

Abstract

Skin ages in two ways: one is slow and normal and the other is the rapid aging induced by sunlight. UV-screening compounds to reduce damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation are almost ubiquitous in nature.The most active natural UV-absorbing substances are the mycosporine-like amino acids (MAA) which are produced by certain algae, corals and zooplankton.The peak absorption of MAA is in the UVA range and their absorption coefficients are similar to those of synthetic sunscreens. Two in vitro studies demonstrated a DNA-protecting effect and the viability enhancing properties of MAA from the red alga Porphyra umbilicalis.A human study showed that a cream containing MAA efficiently protects the skin against UVA-induced lipid oxidation.