For many years, ALBION has worked with the National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition to research the physiological activity of Kita No Hato, a rare variety of Job’s tears. Recently, we conducted a new study and presented our exciting findings to the Chemical Society of Japan.

Background information:

Job’s tears extract is thought to have anti-tumor, antioxidant, and immunostimulatory properties. However, the mechanics of how it functions remain largely unknown. In our study, we identified the active ingredients that promote these numerous benefits. We found that the natural moisturizing factor in Job’s tears extract contributes greatly to its efficacy. In addition to studying the water-soluble Job's tears seed extract, we also investigated the bioactive effects of the oil-soluble Job's tears seed extract.

Effects of Job's tears seed extract on the epidermis model:

In this study, Job's tears seed extract was added to an epidermis model in which epidermal keratinocytes were three-dimensionally cultured. As a result, we found that the thickness of the epidermis and stratum corneum increased and the stratum corneum structure developed regardless of whether the water-soluble or oil-soluble Job’s tear extract was added. 

Analysis of proteins expressed in the epidermis:

We utilized antibody immunostaining to detect proteins in the epidermis. We found that the oil-soluble Job’s tears seed extract tended to increase the level of loricrin. Additionally, we discovered that the water-soluble Job’s tears seed extract increased the level of filaggrin.

In conclusion:

The results of this study suggest that both water-soluble and oil-soluble Job's tears seed extract may contribute to skin cell turnover through different mechanisms. Going forward, we will continue to research how these powerful extracts affect the skin. These learnings will help enhance our skincare offerings.