Mechanism of action: Enzyme and glucuronic acid oligosaccharides

Biotechnologically produced yeast ferment is combined here with short sequences of acetylated glucuronic acid oligosaccharides. Glucuronic acid is the uronic acid of the sugar D-glucose. In human metabolism, glucuronic acid binds to substances to increase its water solubility and thus its excretion (e.g., for detoxification). These sugar building blocks have an architecture comparable to hyaluronic acid fragments. The aim is to support youthful hyaluronic acid turnover in the epidermis.

Hyaluronic acid-related signaling pathways and effects on skin structure

These short sugar molecules target hyaluronic acid-related signaling pathways. In preclinical models, stimulation of de novo hyaluronic acid synthesis and an increase in hyaluronic acid-related markers such as HAS2 and CD44 have been described. This supports the skin's water-binding capacity and viscoelastic properties and is likely associated with increased elastin synthesis. These mechanisms are part of the known CD44-hyaluronic acid network, which influences cell migration, matrix organization, and barrier function.

The fermented sugars signal the skin to produce more of its own hyaluronic acid. This helps retain moisture better and makes the surface feel smoother.

Clinical results and in vivo data

Clinical Results: In a prospective 6-week study of a topical hyaluronic acid serum, an immediate increase in hydration of 134 percent was measured, with a further increase of 55 percent after 6 weeks. Additionally, after 6 weeks, the following scores improved: smoothness (64 percent), plumping (60 percent), hydration (63 percent), fine lines (31 percent), wrinkles (14 percent), and overall appearance (43 percent), with very good tolerability and no increase in IL-1α. These results support the benefits of HA-based formulations for hydration and texture. Manufacturer-led in vivo application studies with a 3 percent formulation reported significantly measurable improvements in surface hydration, a smoother-looking microstructure, and measurable increases in viscoelastic parameters after four to eight weeks compared to placebo.

Embedding in the RU21 hyaluronic complex

The yeast ferment-oligosaccharide system complements the triple hyaluronic acid complex. High-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid contributes to surface comfort, while low-molecular-weight and oligomolecular forms bind water deeper within the skin. The ferment system simultaneously supports hyaluronic acid homeostasis and surface smoothness.

Vitamin E profile and role in the skin

Vitamin E refers to a family of fat-soluble molecules including tocopherols and tocotrienols. In this formulation, we use free tocopherol of plant origin. Tocopherol is membrane-associated and preferentially located in the lipid layers of the stratum corneum, i.e., in the lipid phase of the skin, where it protects sensitive structures.

Tocopherol as a chain terminator in barrier lipids

Tocopherol acts as an antioxidant, halting chain reactions. It scavenges lipid peroxyl radicals, thus limiting further oxidation of skin lipids. The resulting tocopheroxyl radical can be converted back into its active form by the body's own antioxidants. Within the skin barrier, tocopherol protects unsaturated fatty acids and squalene, stabilizes the lipid layers, and supports barrier-relevant enzymes in a slightly acidic pH environment. Vitamin E therefore neutralizes aggressive oxygen molecules, protects the skin's own lipids, and helps maintain the stability of the skin's surface.

Effects shown in studies and integration into the RU21 concept

Effects demonstrated in studies include support for the skin barrier, measurable contributions to the reduction of oxidative markers on the surface, improved smoothness parameters, and a more comfortable skin feel. Tocopherol complements PDRN, RU21 Radiance Lift peptides, and the hyaluronic acid fractions. While PDRN supports regeneration signals and the peptides target structural processes, vitamin E protects the barrier lipids from oxidation. Together, they create a more comfortable skin feel and a visibly smoother appearance: building from within, protecting the lipids on the outside.

Biomimetic NMF system and composition

Centella asiatica is Indian pennywort, also known as tiger grass. Legend has it that injured tigers would roll in it, which is why this tropical plant is considered a symbol of soothing skin. Indian pennywort is used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. In our serum, we utilize the plant's active ingredients: highly purified triterpenes from Centella asiatica, madecassic acid, asiaticoside, and asiatic acid.

The triterpenes modulate pro-inflammatory signaling pathways and dampen key messenger substances of irritation. Simultaneously, they support the organization of the extracellular matrix via collagen-related pathways and contribute to barrier stabilization. Antioxidant properties help neutralize reactive oxygen species.

Moisture dynamics and visible effects

The mixture attracts water, holds it in place, and ensures that the surface remains flexible.

Visible results include: A well-nourished stratum corneum (outer layer of the epidermis) shows less micro-flaking, feels smoother, and appears more elastic. A stable natural moisturizing factor (NMF) balance can indirectly reduce transepidermal water loss because the stratum corneum retains water better and its structure remains organized. This keeps the skin moisturized for hours and pleasantly soft.

Role of the NMF building blocks and integration into the RU21 concept

Sodium PCA is a natural moisturizing factor with a high water-binding capacity. Sodium Lactate supports hydration and pH balance of the skin's protective acid mantle. Glycerin acts as a universal water carrier in the stratum corneum and improves skin feel. The amino acids alanine, glycine, serine, arginine, isoleucine, proline, aspartic acid, histidine, valine, phenylalanine, and threonine supplement the physiological NMF pool. Each component has a specific function. Together, they create a stable moisture cushion. In the RU21 context, the NMF complex works hand in hand with the triple hyaluronic acid and PDRN. Hyaluronic acid immediately binds water in different layers. PDRN supports a regeneration-friendly environment. The NMFs retain this moisture where it is needed, ensuring suppleness and comfort in everyday life.

Folic acid and PDRN: Metabolic co-factors of skin renewal

Vitamin B9 is a water-soluble micronutrient from the folate family. In our formulation, it is present as folic acid and serves as a biochemical cofactor for the skin. Folic acid provides individual carbon building blocks for cell renewal.

PDRN sends regeneration-promoting signals to the skin via the A2A adenosine receptor and is enzymatically broken down into physiological nucleoside precursors, which cells then utilize as part of their natural salvage metabolism. Vitamin B9 provides the activated C1 building blocks for purine and thymidine synthesis as well as methylation processes. Together, these create a metabolically physiological environment that supports orderly epidermal renewal and balanced matrix maintenance.

Simply explained: Repair signals and building blocks for regenerative skin

PDRN reminds the skin of its repair mechanisms and provides usable precursors, while folic acid supplies carbon building blocks. Together, these support calmer-looking, regenerative skin.