Currently, our daily life activities are facing the problem of global warming. Temperatures, UV level are rising, and there is air pollution, such as PM 2.5, which affects our skin and leads to various issues. These include the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) from UV radiation, redness, inflammation, wrinkles, and leading to the deterioration of the skin barrier, as well as premature aging. Therefore, cosmetic and skincare products are essential for helping to restore, protect the skin from damage and enhance to maintain overall skin health.

To support the cosmetics and skincare product development, our department are eager to establish the platform for assess the efficiency of new product trough cell-based assay and Ex vivo skin model.

Nowadays, cosmetic and skincare products based on herbal and plant extracts have gained significant customer attraction. The safety and efficacy of natural compounds for customers' health remain a concern and need clarification before launching these products. Cell-based assays are a fundamental platform for investigating the effects and activities of herbal and plant extracts on human skin cells prior to actual use in humans. General human skin cells, such as keratinocytes, fibroblasts, and melanocytes, are utilized to assess the ability to reduce skin damage from UV radiation, hyperpigmentation, and wrinkles, as well as to delay skin aging and improve hydration, skin elasticity, and firmness.

Phototoxicity: A type of compound or chemical that induces abnormal skin reactions when exposed to UV radiation, resulting in swelling, intense redness, and a burning sensation. The phototoxic effects of the materials of interest were investigated by treating skin cells with the compounds, followed by exposure to UV light to determine phototoxicity. Compounds that do not have phototoxic effects will not impact cell viability.

ROS: Reactive oxygen species are generated by cellular metabolic activities, which are stimulated by environmental factors such as UV rays and air pollution, contributing to structural damage of the skin cells.

Inflammation: A process by which the body responds to injury and illness, resulting in redness and swelling. Skin inflammation can be caused by irritants, allergens, and C. acne. Briefly, skin cells were exposed to UV radiation and pathogens to induce the inflammatory response, and the anti-inflammatory effects of the materials of interest were investigated.

NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide) is a vital coenzyme found in every cell, including skin cells, where it plays a crucial role in energy production and cellular repair. Active ingredients or products which have ability to stimulate NAD+ could improve skin health by boosting energy, helping skin cells function and regenerate, and promoting repair by aiding in the recovery of damaged DNA.