Porcine placenta peptides as a complementary functional food for skin rejuvenation: A 12-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

Skin aging is characterized by the deterioration of collagen and elastin in the dermis, leading to wrinkles, dryness, and pigmentation irregularities. Porcine placenta peptides (PPP), a bioactive ingredient commonly used in complementary functional foods and rich in collagen and growth factors, have demonstrated regenerative properties that may counteract these aging effects. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral PPP supplementation in improving signs of skin aging. Ninety participants aged 35-60 with dry skin and visible periorbital wrinkles were randomly assigned to receive either PPP or a placebo twice daily for 12 weeks. Skin parameters, including wrinkle depth, hydration, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), elasticity, pigmentation, and gloss, were assessed at baseline and at 4, 8, and 12 weeks. Compared to the placebo group, the PPP group showed significant reductions in wrinkle depth, melanin index, erythema index, and TEWL, alongside notable improvements in skin hydration, elasticity, and gloss. Importantly, no adverse events were reported, and investigator evaluations supported the objective findings. Taken together, PPP may serve as a safe and effective complementary therapy to conventional dermatological treatments, offering a noninvasive strategy to promote skin health and counteract photoaging. Given its origin as a functional food and its role in traditional East Asian medicine, PPP may also be integrated into holistic anti-aging regimens or wellness programs. Further studies in diverse populations are warranted to confirm these benefits and explore underlying mechanisms.