Natural Moisturizing Factors: Amino Acids Flashcards
1
Q
How do amino acids contribute to healthy skin?
A
- building blocks of peptides and proteins
- each amino acid performs a specific function in skin.
- some amino acids are found naturally in skin and work together with aquaporins to ensure adequate skin hydration and barrier functioning
2
Q
What is methionine?
A
- essential amino acid
- 2 types: L-methionine (Active) and D-methionine (Inactive)
3
Q
How does methionine contribute to healthy skin, hair and nails?
A
- building block of keratin
- boosts collagen production
- skin tone
- skin elasticity
4
Q
How does methionine protect from harmful free radicals?
A
- potent antioxidant
- essential for glutathione synthesis which protects cells from free radical damage
5
Q
How does methionine contribute to wound healing?
A
- tissue growth
- blood vessels
- deficiency in methionine causes poor wound healing (accelerated wound healing with supplementation)
- also applicable to acne inflammation and healing
6
Q
What is serine?
A
- non-essential amino acid
- derived from silk proteins
- produced by our body naturally from different metabolites, i.e., glycine
7
Q
What are clinical effects of serine?
A
- collagen production
- boost skin elasticity
- moisture retaining (natural moisturizing factor)
- immune functioning
8
Q
How is serine used in cosmetic preparations?
A
- skin conditioning
- anti-static agent
- hair conditioning
- replenish hair cysteine levels
