BACKGROUND: Skin thinning, known as dermatoporosis, is an expected consequence of aging that involves structural weaknesses, barrier deficiencies, and cellular senescence, posing challenges for maintaining long-term skin health.
OBJECTIVE: To introduce Skin Activation as a dermatologic strategy for promoting skin longevity. It is supported by clinical and preclinical evidence, combining methods to remodel the extracellular matrix (ECM) and dermo-epidermal junction (DEJ), restore the barrier, and enhance hydration, along with reducing senescent cells. This improves the skin's functional resilience.
METHODS: Data were generated from a multicenter dermatoporosis trial, a randomized controlled trial, and specific cohorts of sensitive skin patients, in addition to preclinical studies. Study endpoints included trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), hydration levels, LC-Optical Coherence Tomography (LC-OCT), assessments of the DEJ, ultrasound measurements, senescent markers, and histology. The data also included measures of senescence, cytokine profiles, and biomarkers of cellular renewal.
RESULTS: Among 400 participants, notable changes included a 20-40% reduction in TEWL, an 80% increase in hydration based on corneometer readings, a 5% rise in skin thickness, and improved DEJ integrity in 83% of subjects compared to 17% of controls. In preclinical ex vivo models, decreases in fibroblast senescence levels were observed, along with activation of the JAG/NOTCH pathway.
CONCLUSION: A recently developed skin activator program shifts dermatologic skin health strategies from a broad anti-aging focus to a more targeted skin activation approach focused on structure, function, and cellular energy and renewal. This reinforces the ongoing commitment to dermatological innovation and establishes a more structured approach to skin longevity.  .
Longevity & Aging