Compositions Comprising a Retinoid and a Processed Oat Ingredient

A skin care composition with retinol and processed oat ingredients synergistically activates the retinoic acid pathway, addressing formulation challenges and irritations of retinoids, effectively treating aging and acne.

JP2026500847APending Publication Date: 2026-01-08KENVIEW BRANDS LLC
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2025540457
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-01-11
Filing Date
2024-01-11
Publication Date
2026-01-08

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Retinoids are difficult to formulate due to photodegradation and can be irritating for some individuals, necessitating the development of alternative products that activate similar biological pathways.

Method used

A skin care composition comprising retinol and processed oat ingredients, with ratios ranging from 0.000001:10 to 10:1, which synergistically activate the retinoic acid pathway, enhancing CRABP2 expression.

Benefits of technology

The composition effectively treats signs of aging, acne, and improves skin texture by activating the retinoic acid pathway without the irritations associated with retinoids.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

Skin care compositions containing a retinoid and a processed oat ingredient, and methods of using the same, are provided. Also provided is a method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, comprising topically applying to the skin a skin care composition containing the processed oat ingredient.
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to compositions suitable for use on the skin, and in particular to compositions comprising retinol and a processed oat ingredient. [Background technology]

[0002] Human skin undergoes certain aging processes, some of which are due to intrinsic processes (e.g., chronoaging) and some of which are due to extrinsic factors (e.g., photoaging). In addition, temporary or even permanent changes to the skin can occur, such as acne, oily or dry skin, keratosis, rosacea, photosensitivity, inflammatory, erythematous, and allergic or autoimmune reactions, such as dermatitis and photodermatoses.

[0003] The consequences of the aging process described above can include thinning of the skin, weakening of the epidermis and dermis intertwining, and a decrease in the number of cells and blood vessel supply. These consequences are often undesirable, and individuals suffering from these problems turn to topical treatments to address them.

[0004] Retinoids have been used to treat the skin conditions caused by intrinsic aging, extrinsic factors, acne or skin diseases.However, retinoids can be difficult to formulate, because many of them are susceptible to photodegradation, and retinoids can be too irritating for some individuals' skin.Therefore, there is a continuous need and interest in strengthening or discovering alternative products / ingredients that activate the same or similar biological pathways as retinoids. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to a skin care composition comprising a retinoid and a processed oat ingredient. In one or more embodiments, the ratio of retinoid to processed oat ingredient is from about 0.000001:10 to about 10:1. In some embodiments, the retinoid is present in an amount ranging from about 0.000001% to about 10% by weight of the total composition. In one or more embodiments, the retinoid is selected from the group consisting of retinol, retinal, and retinol esters. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001% to about 10% by weight of the total composition. In one or more embodiments, the composition further comprises an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a surfactant, a chelating agent, an emollient, a moisturizer, a conditioner, a preservative, an opacifier, a fragrance, and combinations of two or more of these. In some embodiments, the composition is in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, lotion, cream, serum, gel, stick, spray, ointment, liquid wash, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, paste, foam, powder, mousse, shaving cream, hydrogel, or film-forming product.

[0006] Another aspect of the present invention relates to treating skin, comprising topically applying to the skin any of the compositions described herein. In one or more embodiments, the method is for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or brightening skin.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention is a method for producing a semiconductor device comprising: a. about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight of retinol, based on the total weight of the composition; b. about 0.1% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a processed oat ingredient selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof.

[0008] Yet another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, the method comprising topically applying to skin a skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient. In one or more embodiments, the method is for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or brightening skin. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001% to about 10%, based on the total weight of the composition. In some embodiments, the skin care composition is substantially free of retinol. In one or more embodiments, the skin care composition is substantially free of retinoids. In some embodiments, the skin care composition is free of retinoids. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] It is believed that one skilled in the art can, based on the description herein, utilize the present invention to its fullest extent. The following specific embodiments are to be construed as merely illustrative, and not limitative of the following disclosure in any way.

[0010] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Furthermore, all publications, patent applications, patents, and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference.

[0011] Unless otherwise specified, percentages used to express amounts of ingredients are weight percent (also referred to as "weight %, "wt %, "% by weight", or "%(W / W)"). Similarly, weight ratios used to express relative proportions of ingredients are also determined using weight percent (i.e., the weight ratio is calculated by dividing the weight percent of one ingredient by the weight percent of another ingredient). Unless otherwise specified, all ranges are inclusive of their endpoints; for example, "4 to 9" includes the endpoints 4 and 9.

[0012] As used herein, a composition that is "essentially free" or "substantially free" of a component means a composition that has about 2% by weight or less of the component, based on the total weight of the composition. Preferably, a composition that is essentially free of a component has about 1% by weight or less, more preferably about 0.5% by weight or less, more preferably about 0.1% by weight or less, more preferably about 0.05% by weight or less, and more preferably about 0.01% by weight or less of the component, based on the total weight of the composition. In certain more preferred embodiments, a composition that is essentially free of a component does not include the component, i.e., the component is not present in the composition.

[0013] As used herein, "cosmetically / dermatologically acceptable" means that the ingredient it describes is suitable for use in contact with tissue (e.g., skin or hair) without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, irritation, allergic reaction, etc. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, cosmetically / dermatologically acceptable salts are acidic / anionic or basic / cationic salts.

[0014] As used herein, a "safe and effective amount" means an amount of a compound, extract, or composition that is sufficient to induce the desired effect, but low enough to avoid serious side effects. A safe and effective amount of a compound, extract, or composition will vary depending, for example, on the age, health, and environmental exposure of the end user, the duration and nature of the treatment, the particular extract, ingredient, or composition used, the particular pharmaceutically acceptable carrier used, and similar factors.

[0015] As used herein, the term "about" refers to within 5%, 4%, 3%, 2.5%, 2%, or 1% by weight of the disclosed value.

[0016] Generally, IUPAC nomenclature is used herein in accordance with the following definitions of terms.

[0017] The term "substituted" refers to a core molecule in which one or more hydrogen atoms have been replaced with a substituent, in the amount permitted by available valences. Substitution is not limited to the core molecule, but can also occur on substituent radicals, thereby rendering the radical a linking group.

[0018] Acceptable salts derived from inorganic bases include, for example, sodium or potassium salts, etc. Acceptable salts derived from organic bases include, for example, salts formed with primary, secondary, or tertiary amines, etc.

[0019] One or more aspects of the present invention relate to compositions and methods for activating retinoic acid pathway in skin.Surprisingly, it has been discovered that processed oat ingredients can achieve this (for example, through increasing CRABP2 expression).More surprisingly, it has been discovered that processed oat ingredients combined with retinol can have a synergistic effect on the activation of retinoic acid pathway.

[0020] Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention relates to skin care compositions comprising (a) retinol and (b) a processed oat ingredient, which have been shown to exhibit synergistic effects in various respects compared to the ingredients alone.

[0021] Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, comprising topically applying to the skin a skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient. Because processed oat ingredients (such as colloidal oats or fermented oats) can themselves increase CRABP2, in some embodiments, the skin care composition is substantially free of retinol. In further embodiments, the skin care composition is substantially free of retinoids or is free of retinoids.

[0022] Retinoids As used herein, retinoid refers to a class of compounds that have the biological activity of vitamin A in the skin. Examples of retinoids include, but are not limited to, retinol, retinaldehyde, retinoic acid, retinyl palmitate, isotretinoin, tazarotene, bexarotene, and adapalene. In certain preferred embodiments, the retinoid is retinol. More preferred are retinol, retinal, or a mixture thereof. Most preferred is retinol. These compounds are well known in the art and are commercially available from many sources, such as Sigma Chemical Company (St. Louis, Mo.) and Boerhinger Mannheim (Indianapolis, Ind.).

[0023] In one embodiment, the retinoid is not encapsulated, meaning that it is not contained in or absorbed into another material. Advantageously, the retinol is not in the form of RetiSTAR® marketed by BASF, as it does not need to be stabilized before use in the compositions according to the invention.

[0024] When both are present, the ratio of retinoid to processed oat component may range from about 0.000001:10 to about 10:1. In further embodiments, the ratio of retinoid to processed oat component may range from about 0.000001:10 to about 2:1. In still further embodiments, the ratio of retinoid to processed oat component is about 0.000006:1 or about 1:10.

[0025] The retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, or 2 to about 0.05, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, or 10% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 5% by weight. In further embodiments, the retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 3% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 2% by weight. In further embodiments, the retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.05 to about 1.5% by weight. In yet further embodiments, the retinoid (e.g., retinol) may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.05 to about 0.5% by weight.

[0026] Processed Oat Ingredients As used herein, the term "processed oat ingredient" refers to an ingredient typically derived from a part of the oat plant (Avena sativa). The ingredient may be a processed (e.g., extracted, milled, fermented) (e.g., extracted) product of one or more parts of the oat plant (e.g., kernel, leaves, stems, seeds), or may be a molecule found in the oat plant (e.g., β-glucan, flavonoids, avenanthramides, lipids, peptides, etc.). This definition is intended to encompass processed oat ingredients derived from sources other than oat (e.g., derived from another plant or chemically synthesized), but otherwise related to oat. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of oat extract, colloidal oatmeal (used interchangeably with oat flour), oat bran, oat protein, oat peptides, oat oil, fermented oats, avenanthramides, β-glucan, modified oat kernel material (e.g., chemically, enzymatically, microbially modified), and combinations thereof. As used herein, "colloidal oatmeal" refers to a powder obtained from the grinding and further processing of whole grain oats that meet U.S. standards for first or second oats. The colloidal oatmeal has the following particle size distribution: no more than 3 percent of the total particles exceed 150 micrometers in size, and no more than 20 percent of the total particles exceed 75 micrometers in size. Examples of suitable colloidal oatmeal include, but are not limited to, "Tech-0" available from Beacon Corporation and colloidal oatmeal available from Quaker. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises oat extract, colloidal oatmeal, and oat oil. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises oat extract. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises colloidal oatmeal. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises oat oil. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of oat extract, colloidal oatmeal, oat oil, and combinations thereof.In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises oat extract, colloidal oatmeal, and oat oil. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises avenanthramide. In some embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises fermented oats. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient comprises β-glucan.

[0027] In a further embodiment, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof. In yet a further embodiment, the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, and combinations thereof.

[0028] The processed oat ingredient may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, or 2 to about 0.05, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10% by weight. In further embodiments, the processed oat ingredient may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 8% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the processed oat ingredient may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 6% by weight. In further embodiments, the processed oat ingredient may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.2 to about 5% by weight.

[0029] In embodiments where the processed oat component comprises colloidal oats, the colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, or 2 to about 0.05, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10% by weight. In further embodiments, the colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 8% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 5% by weight. In further embodiments, colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 4% by weight. In one or more embodiments, colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 2% by weight, or about 1% by weight. In further embodiments, colloidal oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 2 to about 4% by weight, or about 3% by weight.

[0030] In embodiments where the processed oat component comprises fermented oats, the fermented oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, or 2 to about 0.05, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the fermented oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10% by weight. In further embodiments, the fermented oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 8% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the fermented oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 6% by weight. In further embodiments, the fermented oats may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 5% by weight.

[0031] In embodiments where the processed oat ingredient comprises oat extract, the oat extract may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.00001, 0.0001, 0.001, 0.01, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 1.5, or 2 to about 0.05, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, or 15% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the oat extract may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10% by weight. In further embodiments, the oat extract may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.01 to about 8% by weight. In one or more embodiments, the oat extract may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.1 to about 5% by weight. In further embodiments, the oat extract may be present in an amount ranging from about 0.5 to about 4% by weight.

[0032] method Another aspect of the present invention relates to a method for treating skin, the method comprising topically applying to the skin a composition according to another embodiment of the present invention. As used herein, "treatment" or "treating" refers to the improvement, prevention, or amelioration of a condition, disease, or disorder, or at least one discernible symptom thereof. In one embodiment, "treatment" or "treating" refers to the improvement, prevention, or amelioration of at least one measurable physical parameter associated with the condition, disease, or disorder being treated, which is not necessarily discernible in or by the subject being treated. In another embodiment, "treatment" or "treating" refers to inhibiting or slowing the progression of the condition, disease, or disorder, either physically (e.g., stabilization of discernible symptoms), physiologically (e.g., stabilization of physical parameters), or both. In another embodiment, "treatment" or "treating" refers to delaying the onset of the condition, disease, or disorder.

[0033] The compositions / compounds described herein may be used to treat skin to treat acne, treat signs of aging (e.g., wrinkles), improve skin barrier function, and / or lighten skin. In one or more embodiments, the treatment is for subjects with a condition or a history of a condition selected from the group consisting of atopic dermatitis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, dry skin, and flaky skin.

[0034] The compositions of the present invention are suitable for improving skin texture, or for improving skin firmness, or for improving any of the conditions / symptoms described below.

[0035] As used herein, "improving skin texture" means smoothing the surface of the skin to remove either bumps or crevices in the skin surface.

[0036] As used herein, "improving skin firmness" means enhancing skin firmness or elasticity, preventing loss of skin firmness or elasticity, or preventing or treating sagging, loose and lax skin.

[0037] As used herein, "loss of elasticity" includes loss of elasticity or structural integrity of skin or tissue, including, but not limited to, sagging, loose, and flaccid tissue. Loss of elasticity or structural integrity of tissue can be the result of many factors, including, but not limited to, disease, aging, hormonal changes, mechanical trauma, environmental damage, or the application of products, such as cosmetics or pharmaceuticals, to the tissue.

[0038] As used herein, "uneven skin" means a skin condition associated with diffuse or patchy pigmentation that can be classified as hyperpigmentation, such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

[0039] As used herein, "plaque" means a skin condition associated with redness or erythema.

[0040] As used herein, "age spots" means a skin condition associated with discrete pigmentation, e.g., small areas of darker pigmentation that can occur on the face and hands.

[0041] Signs of skin aging also include a decrease in skin thickness and the presence of abnormal or decreased synthesis of glycoproteins, including collagen, glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, elastin, or fibronectin. In one embodiment, the sign of aging is selected from abnormal or decreased synthesis of glycoproteins, including collagen, glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, elastin, or fibronectin. In another embodiment, the sign of skin aging is decreased synthesis of collagen or elastin.

[0042] The example of skin aging that can be treated by topical use of the composition of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, skin wrinkles.As used herein, the term "wrinkles" includes fine lines, fine wrinkles, coarse wrinkles, cellulite, scars and stretch marks.Examples of wrinkles include, but are not limited to, the fine lines around the eyes (for example, "crow's feet"), wrinkles on the forehead and cheeks, wrinkles between the eyebrows, and age lines around the mouth.

[0043] As used herein, "topical use" or "topically applying" means to paint or spread directly onto the skin, hair, or nails, for example, by using an applicator such as the hand or a wipe.

[0044] The composition is also suitable for treating or preventing acne.As used herein, "acne" refers to a disorder that results from the action of hormones and other substances on sebaceous glands and hair follicles, and typically leads to the formation of clogged pores and inflammatory or non-inflammatory lesions on the skin.In particular, this relates to blemishes, lesions, or pimples, pre-emergent pimples, blackheads, and / or whiteheads.As used herein, "pre-emergent pimples" are inflammatory vesicles that are not visually apparent to the naked eye (e.g., as lesions) on the surface of the skin.

[0045] The compositions of the present invention are also suitable for treating or preventing rosacea. As used herein, "rosacea" means skin with persistent erythema, with or without papules, pustules, or nodules.

[0046] The compositions of the present invention are also suitable for reducing hyperkeratinization of the epidermis and can therefore be used to treat or prevent conditions characterized by hyperkeratinization, such as acne or warts.

[0047] In one or more embodiments, one or more of the methods described herein alter the expression of one or more biomarkers. For example, in one or more embodiments, the method can be a method for increasing CRABP2, HAS2, or HBEGF expression in skin. In a further embodiment, the method is a method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, the method comprising topically applying to skin a skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient.

[0048] CRABP2 is well established in the literature as a sensitive marker of retinoid bioactivity and efficacy (Elder JT, Cromie MA, Griffiths CEM, Chambon P, Voorhees JJ. Stimulus-selective induction of CRABP-II mRNA: A marker for retinoic acid action in human skin. J Invest Dermatol. 1993;100(4)) and is associated with conferring anti-aging benefits on the skin (Bielli A, Scioli MG, D'Amico F, Tarquini C, Agostinelli S, Costanza G, Doldo E, Campione E, Passeri D, Coniglione F, Orlandi A. Cellular retinoic acid binding protein-II expression and its potential role in skin aging. Aging (Albany NY). 2019 Mar 18;11(6):1619-1632). HAS2 is the hyaluronan synthase gene that produces hyaluronan, which is associated with skin moisturization and plumpness and is indirectly induced by retinol. Skin plumpness provides an anti-aging or youthful appearance. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HbEGF). HbEGF is a marker of cell proliferation, a characteristic associated with retinol.

[0049] The embodiments described herein can be combined in any suitable combination. For example, an exemplary embodiment is a skin care composition comprising: a. about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight of retinol, based on the total weight of the composition; b. about 0.1% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a processed oat ingredient selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof.

[0050] In further embodiments, such compositions may be in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, lotion, cream, serum, gel, stick, spray, ointment, liquid wash, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, paste, foam, powder, mousse, shaving cream, hydrogel, or film-forming product.

[0051] The compositions described herein can be applied to any skin in need of treatment in the human body. For example, they can be applied to any one or more of the skin on the face, neck, chest, back, arms, armpits, hands, and / or feet. In certain preferred embodiments, the method comprises applying a composition according to one or more embodiments of the present invention to facial skin.

[0052] Any suitable method of applying the extract to skin in need can be used in accordance with the present invention.For example, the extract can be applied directly from the package to the skin in need, can be applied by hand to the skin in need, can be transferred from a substrate such as a wipe or mask, or can be a combination of two or more of these.In other embodiments, the extract can be applied via a dropper, tube, roller, spray, patch, or can be added to water that is to be bathed or otherwise applied to the skin.

[0053] In one or more embodiments, the method of the present invention further comprises the step of contacting the composition with the skin for a period of time. For example, in certain preferred embodiments, the compound is contacted with the skin for about 15 minutes or more after application. In certain more preferred embodiments, the extract is contacted with the skin for about 20 minutes or more, more preferably about 1 hour or more.

[0054] In some embodiments, the methods of the present invention include a regimen comprising applying the composition to the skin multiple times over a selected period of time. For example, in certain embodiments, the present invention provides a method of treating signs of aging comprising applying a composition according to one or more embodiments of the present invention to skin in need of anti-aging treatment once or twice daily for at least 12 weeks, preferably at least 8 weeks, and more preferably at least 2 weeks.

[0055] composition Any suitable carrier can be used in the compositions of the present invention. Preferably, in skin care compositions, the carrier is a cosmetically acceptable carrier. As will be recognized by those skilled in the art, a cosmetically acceptable carrier includes a carrier suitable for use in contact with the body, particularly the skin, for anti-aging applications without undue toxicity, incompatibility, instability, irritation, allergic reaction, etc. A safe and effective amount of carrier is from about 50% to about 99.999%, preferably from about 80% to about 99.9%, more preferably from about 99.9% to about 95%, and most preferably from about 99.8% to about 98% of the composition. The carrier may be in a wide variety of forms. For example, emulsion carriers are useful herein, including, but not limited to, oil-in-water, water-in-oil, water-in-oil-in-water, and oil-in-water-in-silicone emulsions. These emulsions may cover a wide range of viscosities, for example, from about 100 cP to about 200,000 cP. Examples of suitable cosmetically acceptable carriers include cosmetically acceptable solvents and materials for cosmetic solutions, suspensions, lotions, creams, serums, essences, gels, toners, sticks, sprays, ointments, cleansing solutions and bar soaps, shampoos, hair conditioners, pastes, foams, mousses, powders, shaving creams, wipes, patches, strips, powered patches, microneedle patches, bandages, hydrogels, film-forming products, facial and skin masks, make-up, liquid drops, etc. These product types may contain several types of cosmetically acceptable carriers, including, but not limited to, solutions, suspensions, emulsions such as microemulsions and nanoemulsions, gels, solids, liposomes, other encapsulation technologies, etc. In one or more embodiments, the composition is in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, lotion, cream, serum, gel, stick, spray, ointment, liquid wash, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, paste, foam, powder, mousse, shaving cream, hydrogel, or film-forming product.

[0056] The following are non-limiting examples of such carriers. Other carriers can be formulated by those skilled in the art. In one embodiment, the carrier comprises water. In a further embodiment, the carrier may further comprise one or more aqueous or organic solvents. Examples of organic solvents include, but are not limited to, dimethyl isosorbide; isopropyl myristate; cationic, anionic, and nonionic surfactants; vegetable oils; mineral oils; waxes; gums; synthetic and natural gelling agents; alkanols; glycols, and polyols. Examples of glycols include, but are not limited to, glycerin, propylene glycol, butylene glycol, pentylene glycol, hexylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, polypropylene glycol, diethylene glycol, triethylene glycol, capryl glycol, glycerol, butanediol, and hexanetriol, as well as copolymers or mixtures thereof. Examples of alkanols include, but are not limited to, those having from about 2 carbon atoms to about 12 carbon atoms (e.g., from about 2 carbon atoms to about 4 carbon atoms), such as isopropanol and ethanol. Examples of polyols include, but are not limited to, those having from about 2 carbon atoms to about 15 carbon atoms (e.g., from about 2 carbon atoms to about 10 carbon atoms), such as propylene glycol. The organic solvent may be present in the carrier in an amount of from about 1 percent to about 99.99 percent (e.g., from about 20 percent to about 50 percent) based on the total weight of the carrier. Water may be present in the carrier (prior to use) in an amount of from about 5 percent to about 95 percent (e.g., from about 50 percent to about 90 percent) based on the total weight of the carrier. The solution can contain any suitable amount of solvent, including from about 40 to about 99.99%. Particularly preferred solutions contain from about 50 to about 99.9%, about 60 to about 99%, about 70 to about 99%, about 80 to about 99%, or about 90 to about 99%.

[0057] A lotion can be made from such a solution. Lotions typically contain at least one emollient in addition to a solvent. A lotion may contain about 1% to about 20% (e.g., about 5% to about 10%) of an emollient and about 50% to about 90% (e.g., about 60% to about 80%) of water. As used herein, "emollient" refers to a material used to prevent or reduce dryness and to protect the skin or hair. Examples of emollients include, but are not limited to, those listed in the International Cosmetic Ingredient Dictionary and Handbook, eds. Wenninger and McEwen, pp. 1656-61, 1626, and 1654-55 (The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Assoc., Washington, DC, 7th Edition, 1997) (hereinafter, "ICI Handbook").

[0058] Another type of product that can be formulated from a solution is a cream, which typically contains about 5% to about 50% (e.g., about 10% to about 20%) emollient and about 45% to about 85% (e.g., about 50% to about 75%) water.

[0059] Yet another type of product that can be formulated from a solution is an ointment. Ointments can contain a simple base of animal, vegetable, or synthetic oils, or semi-solid hydrocarbons. Ointments can contain from about 2% to about 10% of an emollient and from about 0.1% to about 2% of a thickening agent.

[0060] The compositions useful in the present invention can also be formulated as emulsions. When the carrier is an emulsion, about 1% to about 10% (e.g., about 2% to about 5%) of the carrier contains an emulsifier. The emulsifier may be nonionic, anionic, or cationic. Examples of emulsifiers include, but are not limited to, those listed on pages 1673 to 1686 of the ICI Handbook.

[0061] Lotions and creams can be formulated as emulsions. Such lotions typically contain 0.5% to about 5% emulsifier, and such creams typically contain about 1% to about 20% (e.g., about 5% to about 10%) emollient, about 20% to about 80% (e.g., about 30% to about 70%) water, and about 1% to about 10% (e.g., about 2% to about 5%) emulsifier.

[0062] Single-phase emulsion skin care formulations, such as lotions and creams, of the oil-in-water and water-in-oil types, are well known in the art and are useful in the present invention. Multiphase emulsion compositions, such as water-in-oil-in-water or oil-in-water-in-oil types, are also useful in the present invention. Generally, such single-phase or multiphase emulsions contain water, emollients, and emulsifiers as essential ingredients.

[0063] The compositions of the present invention can also be formulated as gels (e.g., aqueous, alcohol, alcohol / water, or oil gels using a suitable gelling agent). Suitable gelling agents for aqueous and / or alcoholic gels include, but are not limited to, natural gums, acrylic acid and acrylate polymers and copolymers, and cellulose derivatives (e.g., hydroxymethylcellulose and hydroxypropylcellulose). Suitable gelling agents for oils (such as mineral oil) include, but are not limited to, hydrogenated butylene / ethylene / styrene copolymers and hydrogenated ethylene / propylene / styrene copolymers. Such gels typically contain from about 0.1% to about 5% by weight of such gelling agents.

[0064] The compositions of the present invention can also be formulated into solid preparations (e.g., wax-based sticks, bar soap compositions, powders, or wipes). The compositions of the present invention can also be combined with solid, semi-solid, or soluble substrates (e.g., wipes, masks, pads, gloves, or strips).

[0065] The compositions of the present invention may further comprise any of a variety of additional cosmetic active agents, which are preferably formulated for use on the skin. Examples of suitable additional active agents include additional skin whitening agents, tanning agents, anti-acne agents, gloss regulators, antimicrobial agents (e.g., anti-yeast, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial agents), anti-inflammatory agents, anti-parasitic agents, external analgesics, sunscreens, photoprotective agents, antioxidants, keratolytic agents, detergents / surfactants, moisturizers, nutrients, vitamins, energy enhancers, antiperspirants, skin astringents, deodorants, hair removal agents, hair growth enhancers, hair growth retardants, stabilizers, hydration enhancers, efficacy enhancers, anti-callus agents, skin conditioning agents, anti-cellulite agents, fluorides, tooth whitening agents, anti-tartar agents, and tartar dissolving agents, malodor inhibitors (e.g., malodor masking agents), or pH modifiers.Examples of various suitable additional cosmetically acceptable actives include hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, D-panthenol, UV filters, including, but not limited to, avobenzone (Parsol 1789), bisdisulizole disodium (Neo Heliopan AP), diethylaminohydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate (Uvinul A Plus), ecamsule (Mexoryl SX), methyl anthranilate, 4-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), cinoxate, ethylhexyl triazone (Uvinul T150), homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (Parsol 5000), octyl methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), octyl salicylate (octisalate), padimate O (Escalol 507), phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (Ensulizole), polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX), trolamine salicylate, bemotrizinol (Tinosorb S), benzophenone 1-12, dioxybenzone, drometrizole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL), iscotrizinol (Uvasorb HEB), octocrylene, oxybenzone (Eusolex 4360), sulisobenzone, bisoctrizole (Tinosorb M), titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, carotenoids, free radical scavengers, spin traps, retinoids and retinoid precursors such as retinol, retinoic acid and retinyl palmitate, ceramides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential fatty acids, enzymes, enzyme inhibitors, minerals, hormones such as estrogen, steroids such as hydrocortisone, 2-dimethylaminoethanol, copper salts such as copper chloride, copper-containing peptides such as Cu:Gly-His-Lys, coenzyme Q10, amino acids such as proline, vitamins, lactobionic acid, acetyl coenzyme A, niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, ribose, electron transporters such as NADH and FADH2, and other plant extracts such as oat, aloe vera, feverfew, soybean, and shiitake mushroom extracts, and derivatives and mixtures thereof.

[0066] In one or more embodiments, the composition of the present invention is a skin care composition further comprising at least one skin-lightening active agent. Examples of suitable skin-lightening active agents include, but are not limited to, tyrosinase inhibitors, melanin inhibitors, melanosome transfer inhibitors (including PAR-2 ​​antagonists), exfoliants, sunscreens, retinoids, antioxidants, tranexamic acid, skin whitening agents, allantoin, opacifiers, talc and silica, zinc salts, and other agents described in Solano et al. Pigment Cell Res. 2006, 19(550-571). Examples of suitable tyrosinase inhibitors include, but are not limited to, vitamin C and its derivatives, vitamin E and its derivatives, kojic acid, arbutin, resorcinol, hydroquinone, flavones (e.g., licorice flavanoids, licorice root extract, mulberry root extract, Dioscorea Coposita root extract, Saxifragaceae extract, etc.), ellagic acid, salicylate and derivatives, glucosamine and derivatives, fullerenes, hinokitiol, diacids, acetylglucosamine, magnolignans, combinations of two or more thereof, etc. Examples of vitamin C derivatives include, but are not limited to, ascorbic acid and its salts, ascorbic acid-2-glucoside, sodium ascorbyl phosphate, magnesium ascorbyl phosphate, and vitamin C-rich natural extracts. Examples of derivatives of vitamin E include, but are not limited to, α-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, δ-tocopherol, α-tocotrienol, β-tocotrienol, γ-tocotrienol, δ-tocotrienol, and mixtures thereof, tocopherol acetate, tocopherol phosphate, and natural extracts enriched with vitamin E derivatives. Examples of resorcinol derivatives include, but are not limited to, resorcinol, 4-substituted resorcinols such as 4-butylresorcinol (rucinol), 4-hexylresorcinol, phenylethylresorcinol, 4-alkylresorcinols such as 1-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-3-(2,4-dimethoxy-3-methylphenyl)-propane, and natural extracts enriched with resorcinol.Examples of salicylates include, but are not limited to, salicylic acid, acetylsalicylic acid, 4-methoxysalicylic acid, and salts thereof. In certain preferred embodiments, the tyrosinase inhibitor includes a 4-substituted resorcinol, a vitamin C derivative, or a vitamin E derivative. In more preferred embodiments, the tyrosinase inhibitor includes phenylethylresorcinol, 4-hexylresorcinol, or ascorbyl-2-glucoside.

[0067] Examples of suitable melanin degrading agents include, but are not limited to, peroxides and enzymes (e.g., peroxidase and ligninase). In certain preferred embodiments, melanin inhibitors include peroxides and ligninase.

[0068] Examples of suitable melanosome transfer inhibitors include PAR-2 ​​antagonists (e.g., soybean trypsin inhibitor or Bowman-Birk inhibitor), vitamin B3 and derivatives (e.g., niacinamide), essential soybean, whole soybean, soybean extract. In certain preferred embodiments, the melanosome transfer inhibitor includes soybean extract or niacinamide.

[0069] Examples of exfoliants include, but are not limited to, alpha-hydroxy acids (e.g., lactic acid, glycolic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, citric acid, or any combination of any of the foregoing), beta-hydroxy acids (e.g., salicylic acid, polyhydroxy acids such as lactobionic acid and gluconic acid), and mechanical exfoliants (e.g., microdermabrasions). In certain preferred embodiments, the exfoliant includes glycolic acid or salicylic acid.

[0070] Examples of sunscreens include avobenzone (Parsol 1789), bisdisulizole disodium (Neo Heliopan AP), diethylaminohydroxybenzoyl hexylbenzoate (Uvinul A Plus), ecamsule (Mexoryl SX), methyl anthranilate, 4-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), cinoxate, ethylhexyl triazone (Uvinul T150), homosalate, 4-methylbenzylidene camphor (Parsol 5000), octyl methoxycinnamate (octinoxate), octyl salicylate (octisalate), padimate O (Escalol 507), phenylbenzimidazole sulfonic acid (ensulizole), polysilicone-15 (Parsol SLX), trolamine salicylate, and bemotrizinol (Tinosorb S), benzophenone 1-12, dioxybenzone, drometrizole trisiloxane (Mexoryl XL), iscotrizinol (Uvasorb HEB), octocrylene, oxybenzone (Eusolex 4360), sulisobenzone, bisoctrizole (Tinosorb M), titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and the like.

[0071] Examples of antioxidants include, but are not limited to, water-soluble antioxidants such as sulfhydryl compounds and their derivatives (e.g., sodium metabisulfite and N-acetyl-cysteine, glutathione), lipoic acid and dihydrolipoic acid, stilbenoids (e.g., resveratrol and derivatives), lactoferrin, and ascorbic acid and ascorbic acid derivatives (e.g., ascorbyl-2-glucoside, ascorbyl palmitate, and ascorbyl polypeptides). Oil-soluble antioxidants suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, butylated hydroxytoluene, retinoids (e.g., retinol and retinyl palmitate), tocopherols (e.g., tocopherol acetate), tocotrienols, and ubiquinone. Natural extracts containing antioxidants suitable for use in the compositions of the present invention include, but are not limited to, extracts containing flavonoids and isoflavonoids, and their derivatives (e.g., genistein and daidzein), extracts containing resveratrol, etc. Examples of such natural extracts include grape seed, green tea, pine bark, feverfew, parthenolide-free feverfew, oat extract, grapefruit extract, wheat germ extract, hesperidin, grape extract, purslane extract, licochalcone, chalcone, 2,2'-dihydroxychalcone, primrose extract, propolis, and the like.

[0072] The additional cosmetic active agent may be present in the composition in any suitable amount, such as from about 0.0001% to about 20% by weight of the composition, such as from about 0.001% to about 10% by weight, such as from about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, etc. In certain preferred embodiments, the amount is from 0.1% to 5%, and in other preferred embodiments, from 1% to 2%.

[0073] Various other materials may also be present in the compositions of the present invention, including, for example, chelating agents, moisturizing agents, opacifiers, conditioners, preservatives, fragrances, etc. The compositions may also include surfactants, such as those selected from the group consisting of anionic, nonionic, amphoteric, cationic, or combinations of two or more thereof.

[0074] The compositions of the present invention may further contain chelating agents (e.g., EDTA) and preservatives (e.g., parabens). Examples of suitable preservatives and chelating agents are listed on pages 1626 and 1654-55 of the ICI Handbook. Additionally, the compositions useful herein may contain conventional cosmetic adjuvants such as colorants, including dyes and pigments, opacifiers (e.g., titanium dioxide), and fragrances.

[0075] In one or more embodiments, the present invention comprises applying the compound or composition of the present invention through a substrate comprising such a material. Any suitable substrate can be used in the present invention. Examples of suitable substrates and substrate materials are disclosed in, for example, U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos. 2005 / 022683 and 2009 / 0241242, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In certain preferred embodiments, the substrate is a wipe or a facial mask.

[0076] Compositions and products containing such compositions of the present invention can be prepared using methods well known to those skilled in the art. [Example]

[0077] The following examples evaluate various samples containing processed oat ingredients, retinol, and combinations thereof. Some examples involve the evaluation of retinol-responsive genes, such as CRABP2, HbEGF, HAS2, and HAS3. Upregulation of these genes is associated with skin benefits provided by retinoids, such as anti-aging effects, wrinkle and acne reduction, and skin tone benefits. Some examples involve the evaluation of the gene for IL-8, an inflammatory mediator interleukin. IL-8 gene expression is associated with increased inflammation.

[0078] Example 1: Bioactivity assay of fermented oats and retinol alone and in combination on CRAPB2, IL8 and HAS2 in human skin fibroblasts CRAPB2, IL8, and HAS2 were evaluated in several samples containing various amounts of fermented oats, retinol, and a combination of the two. Retinol (BASF, 50C) was prepared at a concentration of 20% retinol by dissolving retinol in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The retinol was then further diluted with DMEM medium containing GlutaMAX supplemented with 1% FBS and 1x Penn / Strep to give a final concentration of 1.1x10 -4 )% and (1.1 × 10 -5 )% stock concentration of retinol. Since retinol is 50% active, the percent activity at the stock concentration is (6 x 10 -5 )% and (6×10 -6 )%. Fermented oats (aurafirm P, Oat Cosmetics, Hampshire, United Kingdom; INCI water, oat (oat) kernel extract, Lactobacillus ferment, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate) were diluted with medium to provide 0.2% and 1.0% fermented oat solutions. 100 μL of each test solution was added to each well to achieve the final concentrations listed in Tables 1-3 below.

[0079] Primary human dermal fibroblasts were obtained from Lifeline Cell Technology, LLC (Frederick, MD 21701, Lot 0967). The donor demographics were as follows: 18-year-old, female, Caucasian, fibroblasts isolated from breast tissue. Fibroblasts were cultured and expanded using dermal fibroblast culture medium (Zenbio, Inc., Durham, NC 27713). In preparation for the experiment, fibroblasts were seeded at a concentration of 10,000 cells / well in 96-well plates. Cells were treated with DMEM medium containing GlutaMAX supplemented with 1% FBS and 1x Penn / Strep 6-24 hours after seeding. Thirty hours after treatment, RNA was isolated and converted to cDNA using a Cell-to-CT kit (Invitrogen, Waltham, MA) according to the manufacturer's instructions. The cDNA was evaluated by qPCR (using the QuantStudio™ 7 Flex Real-Time PCR System from Applied Biosystems, Waltham, MA). Gene expression assays for cellular retinoic acid binding protein 2 (CRABP2), interleukin-8 (IL8), hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2), and polymerase (RNA) II polypeptide A (POLR2A) sold under the tradename TAQMAN (ThermoFisher Scientific, Bridgewater, NJ) were used. Expression of these genes was normalized to the expression of the human POLR2A housekeeping gene. Fold changes were calculated relative to untreated controls, and a two-tailed, two-sample Student's t-test (Microsoft Office Excel 2007, Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA) was performed. Synergy calculations were performed as follows: Briefly, the resulting fold changes relative to the untreated for each component alone were summed and a 1-fold change was subtracted to account for the untreated contribution. If the result was less than the bioactivity obtained as a result of the component combination, the result was considered synergistic, as it was greater than the sum of its parts.The results are shown in Tables 1-3 as the mean fold change relative to untreated.

[0080] [Table 1]

[0081] [Table 2]

[0082] [Table 3]

[0083] Results showed that fermented oats in combination with retinol resulted in synergistically induced retinoid bioactivity as measured by CRABP2 in a human skin fibroblast model. CRABP2 is a sensitive biomarker of retinoid bioactivity. CRABP2 is well established in the literature as a sensitive marker of retinoid bioactivity and efficacy (Elder JT, Cromie MA, Griffiths CEM, Chambon P, Voorhees JJ. Stimulus-selective induction of CRABP-II mRNA: A marker for retinoic acid action in human skin. J Invest Dermatol. 1993;100(4)) and is associated with conferring anti-aging benefits on the skin (Bielli A, Scioli MG, D'Amico F, Tarquini C, Agostinelli S, Costanza G, Doldo E, Campione E, Passeri D, Coniglione F, Orlandi A. Cellular retinoic acid binding protein-II expression and its potential role in skin aging. Aging (Albany NY). 2019 Mar 18;11(6):1619-1632). This data indicates that the combination of these two ingredients results in a synergistic increase in retinol-like properties and therefore provides anti-aging benefits. Furthermore, it was surprisingly discovered that fermented oats alone also provided some CRABP2 expression by itself, which is surprising since fermented oats are not known to act in this way.

[0084] IL8 is a marker associated with retinoid stimulation. With regard to IL8, the above results show that 0.1% fermented oats significantly increased (3×10 -6 )% retinol induced similar levels of IL-8, and 0.5% fermented oats induced similar levels of IL-8 compared with (3 × 10 -5)% retinol, further confirming the retinoid-like bioactivity of fermented oats. When fermented oats were tested in combination with retinol, the combination synergistically induced IL8, indicating synergistic activation of retinol-related pathways.

[0085] HAS2 is a marker related to hyaluronic acid synthase and skin moisturization. The results demonstrate that fermented oats alone can induce HAS2, but when the combination of fermented oats and retinol is evaluated under the specific conditions and doses tested, there is no synergistic effect of hyaluronic acid synthase-driven moisturization. Nevertheless, as seen in the following example, it is believed that a higher dose may be required to observe the synergistic effect of this combination for HAS2 induction.

[0086] Example 2: Bioactivity assay of CRABP2, HBEGF, IL8, and HAS3 in human skin explants from samples containing colloidal oats Propylene glycol / ethanol (PgETOH) (3:7) (w / w) was used as the vehicle. 1% colloidal oat (oat flour, Oat Cosmetics, Southampton, United Kingdom) and 0.1% retinol solutions were prepared in PgETOH, respectively, as shown in Tables 4-7. Combinations were prepared by adding the appropriate amount of test solution to reach the final concentrations shown.

[0087] Abdominal skin samples were obtained from adult humans undergoing abdominoplasty. Informed consent was obtained from each patient, and all experimental procedures were approved by the Institutional Review Board (IRB). Subcutaneous fat was carefully removed, and 0.93 cm 2Skin biopsies were prepared under sterile conditions and conditioned overnight in DMEM / F12 (1:1) medium, 2% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum, 10 μg / mL insulin, 10 ng / mL hydrocortisone, 10 ng / mL EGF, and 1x ABAM in a humidified 5% CO atmosphere. Skin explants were treated topically with 4 μL of each formulation for 48 hours.

[0088] At the end of the 48-hour incubation, the skin biopsies were cut in half, and either one half or both halves of the skin biopsy were lysed in 600 μL of lysis buffer consisting of 100 parts RLT buffer (RNA purification kit, sold under the trade name RNEASY Mini Kit, Qiagen, Valencia, CA) and 1 part 2-mercaptoethanol in a reinforced tube with a screw cap and O-ring closure and ceramic tissue grinding beads (sold under the trade name PRECELLYS CKMix50-R, Bertin Corp, Rockville, MD). The tube was shaken at 6300 rpm for 40 seconds. RNA was extracted from the solution using the RNEASY Mini Kit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA) according to the manufacturer's instructions, and the RNA was eluted in 30 μL of RNase-free water.

[0089] Reverse transcription (RT) was performed using the Applied Biosystems High Capacity Reverse Transcription Kit (ThermoFisher Scientific, Bridgewater, NJ). Gene expression assays for cellular retinoic acid-binding protein 2 (CRABP2), heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HbEGF), hyaluronan synthase 3 (HAS3), interleukin-8 (IL8), polymerase (RNA) II polypeptide A (POLR2A), 18S rRNA (18S), and TATA box-binding protein (TBP) sold under the trade name TAQMAN and the master mix sold under the trade name TAQMAN (ThermoFisher Scientific, Bridgewater, NJ). qPCR analysis was performed using the TAQMAN master mix and run on a real-time PCR system sold under the trade name QUANTSTUDIO 7 Flex System (ThermoFisher Scientific, Bridgewater, NJ). The expression of these genes was normalized to the expression of human POLR2A or to the expression of human 18S rRNA or TBP "housekeeping" genes. These "housekeeping" genes are widely used as controls to normalize specific gene expression levels because their expression is invariant across tissues, cells, and experimental treatments. Methods for normalization include measuring the expression of an internal reference gene or "housekeeping" gene to account for potential errors in RNA / cDNA loading and variations in reverse transcription efficiency. Fold changes were calculated relative to untreated or vehicle controls, and a two-tailed, two-sample Student's t-test (Microsoft Office Excel 2007, Microsoft, Redmond, WA, USA) was performed. Synergy was calculated as described above. Results are presented in Tables 4-7 as the mean fold change relative to untreated.

[0090] [Table 4]

[0091] [Table 5]

[0092] [Table 6]

[0093] [Table 7]

[0094] As can be seen from the results shown in Tables 4-7, colloidal oats alone increased retinoid activity as measured by CRABP2, HAS3, and HBEGF. This is surprising, considering that oats are not generally known to enhance retinoid activity. Furthermore, colloidal oats also increased retinoid activity when combined with retinol, surprisingly in a synergistic manner. These are biomarkers associated with anti-aging benefits, suggesting that colloidal oats alone, and particularly in combination, may be advantageous in providing such anti-aging benefits.

[0095] [Embodiment] (1) A skin care composition comprising: a. Retinoids, b. A skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient. (2) The skin care composition of embodiment 1, wherein the ratio of retinoid to processed oat component is from about 0.000001:10 to about 10:1. (3) The skin care composition of any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the retinoid is present in an amount ranging from about 0.000001% to about 10% by weight of the total composition. (4) The skin care composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 3, wherein the retinoid is selected from the group consisting of retinol, retinal, and retinol esters. (5) The skin care composition of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof.

[0096] (6) The skin care composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processed oat component is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof. (7) The skin care composition of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the processed oat component is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10% by total weight of the composition. (8) The skin care composition of any one of embodiments 1 to 7, further comprising an ingredient selected from the group consisting of a surfactant, a chelating agent, an emollient, a moisturizer, a conditioner, a preservative, an opacifier, a fragrance, and combinations of two or more thereof. (9) The skin care composition of any one of the preceding embodiments, wherein the composition is in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, lotion, cream, serum, gel, stick, spray, ointment, liquid cleanser, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, paste, foam, powder, mousse, shaving cream, hydrogel, or film-forming product. (10) A method for treating skin, comprising topically applying to the skin a composition according to any one of embodiments 1 to 9.

[0097] (11) The method of embodiment 10, wherein the method is a method for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or lightening the skin. (12) A skin care composition comprising: a. about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight of retinol, based on the total weight of the composition; b. A skin care composition comprising: about 0.1% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a processed oat ingredient selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof. (13) A method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, the method comprising topically applying to the skin a skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient. (14) The method of embodiment 13, wherein the method is a method for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or lightening the skin. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof.

[0098] 16. The method of any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the processed oat component is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001% to about 10% by weight of the total composition. 17. The method of any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the skin care composition is substantially free of retinol. 18. The method of any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the skin care composition is substantially free of retinoids. 19. The method of any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the skin care composition does not contain a retinoid.

Claims

1. 1. A skin care composition comprising: a. a retinoid; b. a processed oat ingredient.

2. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the ratio of retinoid to processed oat component is from about 0.000001:10 to about 10:

1.

3. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the retinoid is present in an amount ranging from about 0.000001% to about 10% by total weight of the composition.

4. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the retinoid is selected from the group consisting of retinol, retinal, and retinol esters.

5. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof.

6. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof.

7. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the processed oat ingredient is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001 to about 10%, based on the total weight of the composition.

8. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, further comprising an ingredient selected from the group consisting of surfactants, chelating agents, emollients, moisturizers, conditioners, preservatives, opacifiers, fragrances, and combinations of two or more thereof.

9. 10. The skin care composition of claim 1, wherein the composition is in the form of a solution, suspension, emulsion, lotion, cream, serum, gel, stick, spray, ointment, liquid cleanser, bar soap, shampoo, hair conditioner, paste, foam, powder, mousse, shaving cream, hydrogel, or film-forming product.

10. A method for treating skin, comprising topically applying to the skin a composition according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the method is a method for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or lightening the skin.

12. 1. A skin care composition comprising: a. about 0.01% to about 1.5% by weight of retinol, based on the total weight of the composition; b. about 0.1% to about 2.5% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition, of a processed oat ingredient selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, and combinations thereof.

13. 1. A method for increasing CRABP2 expression in skin cells, comprising topically applying to the skin a skin care composition comprising a processed oat ingredient.

14. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the method is a method for treating signs of aging, treating acne, smoothing skin texture, or lightening the skin.

15. 15. The method of claim 13 or 14, wherein the processed oat ingredient is selected from the group consisting of fermented oats, colloidal oats, oat extract, oat oil, and combinations thereof.

16. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the processed oat ingredient is present in an amount ranging from about 0.001% to about 10% by total weight of the composition.

17. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the skin care composition is substantially free of retinol.

18. 14. The method of claim 13, wherein the skin care composition is substantially free of retinoids.

19. The method of claim 13 , wherein the skin care composition is retinoid-free.