ANABELLE ECHARD*, JULIE DROUX*
Corresponding author
Berkem, Marais Ouest, 24680 Gardonne, France

Abstract

Feelings of discomfort, stinging and itching on the face? These are the main features of sensitive skin. In order to soothe the skin and to make it more resistant to external aggressions, it is necessary to protect against the hyperreactivity and excessive inflammatory reactions of the epidermis. Quince leaves have interesting anti-inflammatory abilities that can be helpful to improve skin comfort. A new quince leaf extract has been developed and tested on pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-8). Then, its soothing properties were clinically evaluated.

INTRODUCTION

Quince leaves
Quince, Cydonia oblonga Mill., is a deciduous and perennial tree from the Rosaceae family native to Western Asia. It is primarily grown for its fruits which are consumed in many parts of the world. During the last decades, extensive research has been performed on their chemical composition and biological effects. They are attracting interest due to their health promoting properties with potential application in nutritional and pharmaceutical fields (1, 2). By comparison, quince leaves have up until now been less studied. However, they are a promising natural source of bioactive phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds (3). Moreover, plant polyphenols are known to have anti-inflammatory abilities (4). These properties could be introduced to help to fight against the recent sensitive skin phenomenon.

Sensitive skin
Sensitive skin is a widespread problem due to lifestyle factors such as pollution, stress, important daily-use substances etc. Approximately 40% of the population complains of itching, burning, stinging and discomfort sensations when it comes to their skin (5 ...