▲ This image provided by Amorepacific is extracted from a microbiome-related paper on addressing post-acne hyperpigmentation. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE)(Yonhap)

SEOUL, Sept. 9 (Yonhap) -- Amorepacific said Wednesday it has confirmed the potential of a cultured extract from a proprietary microbiome strain it developed to help improve hyperpigmentation caused by acne inflammation.

Acne can cause inflammation that leaves red marks and may lead to hyperpigmentation or scarring. However, existing technologies have limitations in effectively managing pigment accumulated in cells in the dermal and epidermal layers, according to Amorepacific researchers.

Through its research, Amorepacific found that a cultured extract rich in moranolyn suppresses the expression of melanin-producing enzymes that increase in response to acne irritation. It also activates autophagy and lysosomal degradation pathways in macrophages that have already absorbed melanin and accumulated it in the skin.

A study using human skin tissue also found a significant reduction in hyperpigmentation induced by acne-causing bacteria and ultraviolet radiation after treatment with the cultured extract.

The findings were published in the August issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS).

"We will propose new beauty solutions that take into account the processes of skin change and recovery as well as the state of healthy skin," Seo Byung-hwi, chief technology officer and head of Amorepacific's R&D Center, said.

jwc@yna.co.kr

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