Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emerging significance of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) in anti-aging skincare, highlighting the potential of N-acetylneuraminic acid (also known as "Nectar Acid") as a key ingredient in this new approach to skincare [2][3][15]. Group 1: ECM and Anti-Aging - ECM has been identified as the thirteenth hallmark of aging, representing a new pathway for anti-aging technology in the beauty industry [2][8]. - Major beauty companies like L'Oréal, Estée Lauder, Shiseido, and others are actively investing in ECM-related research and development, indicating a competitive landscape [8][11]. Group 2: N-acetylneuraminic Acid (Nectar Acid) - N-acetylneuraminic acid has recently been approved by the National Medical Products Administration in China, marking its transition from experimental to a recognized cosmetic ingredient [3][15]. - This ingredient exhibits multiple biological activities, including anti-wrinkle, brightening, anti-inflammatory properties, and the ability to regulate ECM homeostasis [15][22]. Group 3: Mechanisms and Efficacy - N-acetylneuraminic acid significantly enhances collagen gene promoter activity, leading to a 252% increase in type I collagen synthesis at a concentration of 0.2% [18]. - It acts as a stabilizer for ECM by neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inhibiting matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-1, MMP-3, MMP-9), thereby reducing collagen degradation [20][22]. Group 4: Market Potential and Applications - The successful incorporation of N-acetylneuraminic acid into the cosmetic ingredient directory opens up new market opportunities and enhances its commercial value [26][27]. - The ingredient's dual application in both topical and oral beauty products aligns with traditional Asian wellness practices, providing a strong foundation for cross-category integration [26][28]. Group 5: Research and Development - The company has invested over 30 million yuan in the industrialization of N-acetylneuraminic acid, overcoming traditional extraction challenges to achieve high purity and yield [28][29]. - Ongoing research focuses on multi-omics studies to validate the ingredient's efficacy across various biological pathways, enhancing its appeal in the anti-aging market [25][34].

Core Viewpoint - ECM (Extra Cellular Matrix) has been identified as a significant marker of aging, leading to increased focus and competition among beauty brands in anti-aging research and product development [1][3][10]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The recognition of ECM as an aging marker has prompted major beauty companies to rapidly advance their research and product offerings related to ECM [6][9]. - Companies like Huaxi and Marubi are expanding their research to include all major ECM proteins, indicating a shift towards a more comprehensive understanding of skin aging [6][9]. - The launch of innovative products, such as Huaxi's "润百颜·玻玻" and Shiseido's MicroClick Concentrate, highlights the industry's commitment to integrating ECM research into practical applications [6][9][10]. Group 2: Key Research Findings - ECM plays a crucial role in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis, cellular aging, and stem cell depletion, making it a pivotal focus in anti-aging research [3][10]. - The dynamic network of ECM, composed of hyaluronic acid, collagen, and elastin, is essential for skin elasticity and vitality, with its degradation being a primary mechanism of skin aging [10][14][19]. - Research indicates that a healthy ECM can rejuvenate aging skin, restoring its appearance and function [17][19]. Group 3: Competitive Landscape - Major beauty brands are leveraging their existing research on key ingredients like hyaluronic acid and collagen to enhance their ECM-focused anti-aging strategies [24][26]. - The integration of ECM research is seen as a way to unify various scientific advancements within the beauty industry, creating a more holistic approach to skin aging [24][25]. - The collaboration between medical aesthetics and beauty sectors is expected to accelerate the development of innovative anti-aging solutions based on ECM [26][27]. Group 4: Future Opportunities - The potential applications of ECM research extend beyond facial care, with implications for hair follicle regeneration and other areas of dermatology [22][27]. - The beauty industry is positioned to explore new avenues in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, utilizing ECM's properties to enhance skincare products [27][28]. - ECM is viewed as a "new gold mine" for the beauty industry, offering significant opportunities for innovation and market growth [27][28].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the emerging significance of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) in the anti-aging beauty industry, marking it as a new frontier for research and product development in skincare [2][4][5]. Group 1: ECM's Role in Aging - ECM has been identified as the thirteenth hallmark of aging, influencing mitochondrial homeostasis, cellular senescence, and stem cell exhaustion [2][4]. - Changes in ECM can be both a cause and a result of aging, suggesting its dual role in regulating the aging process [4][5]. - The recognition of ECM as a marker of aging has sparked a competitive race among beauty brands to explore its potential in anti-aging products [7][14]. Group 2: Industry Response and Innovations - Major beauty companies are rapidly advancing their research on ECM, with notable developments such as Huaxi's approval of a hyaluronic acid product aimed at improving skin quality [9]. - Marubi Biotech has expanded its research to include all major ECM proteins, indicating a broader focus on ECM-related skincare solutions [11]. - Various companies, including L'Oréal and Shiseido, are developing products that target ECM degradation and enhance skin elasticity through innovative ingredients [12][14]. Group 3: Mechanisms and Applications - ECM serves as a mechanical scaffold for skin cells, providing essential support and nutrition, which is crucial for maintaining skin elasticity and vitality [21][24]. - It acts as a signaling hub, dynamically regulating cellular behaviors such as proliferation and differentiation, which are vital for skin health [23][24]. - The degradation of ECM components, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, is a primary mechanism of facial skin aging, leading to wrinkles and loss of elasticity [24][25]. Group 4: Future Directions and Market Potential - The integration of ECM research into anti-aging strategies represents a shift towards a more holistic understanding of skin aging, moving beyond single-ingredient solutions [33][34]. - The collaboration between hyaluronic acid and collagen in ECM functions is expected to unlock new anti-aging potentials, enhancing the efficacy of skincare products [33][34]. - The article suggests that ECM research holds vast potential for innovation in the beauty industry, with opportunities for new product development and market expansion [32][37].