Evidence supporting the use of: L-carnosine
For the health condition: Wrinkles

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

L-carnosine is a naturally occurring dipeptide composed of beta-alanine and histidine, found in high concentrations in muscle and brain tissue. Its use for supporting or treating wrinkles is primarily based on its antioxidant properties and its ability to inhibit advanced glycation end products (AGEs), which are associated with skin aging. There is some in vitro and animal research suggesting that L-carnosine can protect skin cells from oxidative stress and glycation, both processes that contribute to the formation of wrinkles and loss of skin elasticity. For example, studies have shown that carnosine may reduce fibroblast senescence and preserve collagen integrity, potentially slowing down visible aging signs.

However, robust clinical evidence in humans is limited. A few small-scale clinical trials and pilot studies have explored topical formulations containing carnosine, with some reporting improvements in skin elasticity and reduction in wrinkles, but these studies often suffer from small sample sizes, lack of controls, or short durations. Systematic reviews tend to conclude that while carnosine is promising as an anti-aging ingredient, more well-designed, large-scale human trials are necessary to confirm its efficacy for wrinkle reduction. Thus, the current scientific evidence is preliminary but indicates a potential benefit rather than a proven effect.

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