This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a proprietary plant-based formulation of
Astragalus membranaceus and
Centella asiatica saponins (ACS) on skin health, as both a cosmetic ingredient and a functional supplement. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 150 healthy adults were assigned
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This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a proprietary plant-based formulation of
Astragalus membranaceus and
Centella asiatica saponins (ACS) on skin health, as both a cosmetic ingredient and a functional supplement. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 150 healthy adults were assigned to groups using topical ACS cream, oral ACS capsules, combined treatments, or corresponding placebos. Skin brightness, moisture, elasticity, melanin value, pore count, texture, and collagen content were assessed over 4 to 12 weeks. After 4 weeks of topical ACS application, skin brightness improved by 2.5%, elasticity by 6.5%, melanin decreased by 5.2%, pores reduced by 10.6%, and collagen increased by 8.7% (
p < 0.05). After 12 weeks of oral ACS, brightness, elasticity, texture, and collagen significantly improved (
p < 0.05). The combined treatment group showed the greatest improvements, including a 4.2% increase in brightness, 12.9% increase in moisture, 9.0% elasticity increase, and a 28.5% reduction in pore count (
p < 0.05). ACS, whether used topically, orally, or in combination, effectively enhances skin health and offers a natural solution for skin rejuvenation.
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