Vitamin D and Skin Health
Vitamin D and its receptors (VDR) regulate numerous skin functions, from maintaining the protective barrier to boosting natural defense mechanisms and controlling the hair follicle cycle. However, reduced sun exposure and ageing lead to a decline in both vitamin D synthesis and VDR levels in the skin.
Cosmetics enriched with vitamin D could help improve skin health, but there’s a problem—vitamin D has low stability in cosmetic formulations. This has led researchers to explore novel active ingredients with “vitamin D-like” benefits.
Chicory Root Extract: A Natural “Vitamin D-like” Active
A breakthrough ingredient derived from Cichorium intybus L. (common chicory) root extract offers a solution. Chicory root is rich in oligofructosans, which stimulate VDR synthesis. Once synthesized, the receptor binds to vitamin D response elements (VDRE) through specific DNA sequences in the cell nucleus. This interaction regulates the genes responsible for skin cell proliferation and differentiation.
Beyond VDR activity, chicory root extract provides additional skin benefits:
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Collagen synthesis: Oligofructosans stimulate collagen production and inhibit the degradation of the extracellular matrix.
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Skin barrier support: Strengthens and promotes regeneration of the skin.
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Retinol-like effects: Improves elasticity and reduces wrinkles, but without the irritation commonly associated with retinol.
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Prebiotic action: Thanks to its inulin content, chicory root serves as a natural prebiotic, nourishing beneficial skin bacteria and enhancing skin microbiota health.
Tens’up™: Advanced Delivery of Chicory Oligosaccharides
In modern cosmetic formulations, chicory’s potential is maximized through Tens’up™, an active botanical complex. It contains oligosaccharides from chicory root encapsulated within a three-dimensional (3D) matrix. This delivery system enables their sequential release upon skin application, ensuring both immediate and long-lasting effects.
Key Anti-Ageing Benefits of Tens’up™:
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Provides an instant lifting effect and acts as a “wrinkle eraser.”
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Visibly reduces signs of fatigue and restores skin’s natural splendor.
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Enhances facial features for a more radiant appearance.
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Creates a smoother canvas for make-up application while extending wear time.
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Stimulates collagen synthesis with anti-ageing efficacy comparable to retinol.
By combining the vitamin D-like activity of chicory root oligofructosans with advanced 3D matrix technology, Tens’up™ delivers both instant visible results and long-term anti-ageing benefits. It strengthens the skin barrier, supports collagen synthesis, improves elasticity, and smooths wrinkles—all while acting as a gentle, natural alternative to retinol.
Tens’up™ is more than just another cosmetic ingredient—it’s a science-backed innovation for skin that looks lifted, radiant, and youthful.
Written by: Dr. Tan Kian Meng PhD in Engineering Technology
(University Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, UTHM)
