Skin preparation for improving cellulite and method for improving cellulite

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of providing an external skin preparation for ameliorating cellulite and a method for ameliorating cellulite, which can ameliorate cellulite in a simple manner without requiring special equipment and manual skill. An external skin preparation for ameliorating cellulite contains at least one component (A) selected from among α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin. A method for ameliorating cellulite comprises a step for externally applying, to the skin of a subject, an external skin preparation which is for ameliorating cellulite and contains at least one component (A) selected from among α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an external skin preparation for reducing cellulite and a method for reducing cellulite. [Background technology]

[0002] Cellulite is a skin condition that presents an uneven appearance and is also called orange peel because of its appearance similar to the outer skin of an orange. Cellulite tends to occur in the thighs and buttocks, where there is a lot of subcutaneous fat, and is one of the beauty concerns that women have.

[0003] Subcutaneous adipose tissue is largely composed of fat cells, and fat cell clusters form lobulated structures called fat lobules. Additionally, collagen fiber bundles originating from the dermis penetrate the subcutaneous adipose tissue in places, firmly connecting the dermis to the fascia and periosteum. While the causes of cellulite are largely unknown, it is thought that hypertrophy of fat lobules and changes in the structure and state of connective tissue cause collagen fiber bundles to pull on the skin, resulting in denatured adipose tissue appearing as unevenness on the skin surface (Non-Patent Document 1).

[0004] In recent years, ultrasound tomography has also been applied to the observation of skin. Echo-free structures such as fat cells and lymphatic fluid appear black, while hyperechoic connective tissue appears green, red, or yellow depending on the echo level. When comparing images of subjects by age, it has been reported that red and yellow areas are more prevalent in those in their 20s, while green and black areas increase with age (Non-Patent Document 1). In other words, as people age, the echo from connective tissue weakens, and the amount and state of collagen in the dermis changes. Ultrasound tomography clearly reveals the interface between the dermis, which is made of connective tissue, and the subcutaneous tissue, which is rich in fat cells, because the echo levels differ significantly between the dermis, which is made of connective tissue, and the subcutaneous tissue, which is rich in fat cells. When ultrasound tomography is used to image normal skin without cellulite, the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue appears smooth and linear. In contrast, in skin with cellulite, the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue appears irregular and disordered (Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2). Therefore, observing the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue using ultrasound tomography can be used to assess the presence and condition of cellulite.

[0005] Skin massage is considered effective in reducing cellulite, but massage requires the services of a skilled aesthetician and its effectiveness is uncertain. The effectiveness of ultrasound therapy and massage therapy using instruments has already been reported using ultrasound tomography (Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2), but these therapies require specialized equipment. While cellulite inhibitors containing fullerenes as active ingredients are known (Patent Document 1), they only prevent the accumulation of intracellular lipid droplets and have not been reported to improve existing cellulite. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2006 / 011644 [Non-patent literature]

[0007] [Non-Patent Document 1] C. Christ, R., Improvement in skin elasticity in the treatment of cellulite and connective tissue weakness by means of Extracorporeal Pulse Activation Therapy: EPATR., Aesthetic Surgery Journal, 2008, Vol. 28, Number 5, 538-544 [Non-patent document 2] Lucassen GW, The effectiveness of massage treatment on cellulite as monitored by ultrasound imaging., Skin Research and Technology, 1997, Vol.3, 154-160 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] An object of the present invention is to provide a cellulite-reducing skin topical preparation and a cellulite-reducing method that can easily reduce cellulite without requiring special equipment or procedures. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present inventors have conducted extensive research to solve the above problems. As a result, they have found that the above problems can be solved by having the following configuration, and have completed the present invention. The present invention is, for example, the following [1] to [7].

[0010] [1] A topical skin preparation for improving cellulite, comprising at least one component (A) selected from α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin. [2] The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation according to [1], which is for massage. [3] The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation according to [1] or [2], wherein the content of the component (A) is 0.01 to 10% by mass. [4] A method for reducing cellulite, comprising the step of applying the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation according to any one of [1] to [3] to the skin of a subject. [5] The cellulite improvement method according to [4], further comprising massaging the skin at least once before, simultaneously with, and after applying the cellulite-improving topical skin preparation to the skin. [6] The cellulite-improving method according to [4] or [5], wherein the component (A) is administered at 0.001 to 10 mg / kg body weight per day. [7] The cellulite improvement method according to any one of [4] to [6], comprising a step of evaluating the cellulite of the subject by ultrasonic tomography. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an external skin preparation for cellulite reduction and a method for reducing cellulite that can reduce cellulite easily without requiring special equipment or procedures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 shows ultrasound images of the back of the thigh of subject 1 before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and four and eight weeks after application. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows ultrasound images of the back of the thigh of subject 1 before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and four and eight weeks after application. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows ultrasound images of the back of the thigh of subject 2 before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and four and eight weeks after application. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 shows ultrasound images of the back of the thigh of subject 2 before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and four and eight weeks after application. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 shows ultrasound images of the back of the thigh of subject 3 before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 shows ultrasound tomographic images of the back of the thigh of subject 3 before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin, and four and eight weeks after application. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a graph showing the change in cellulite area before application of the α-glucosyl hesperidin-containing massage cream, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a graph showing changes in collagen score before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a graph showing changes in the Age band before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the change in thickness before application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a graph showing the change in cellulite area before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a graph showing changes in collagen scores before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a graph showing changes in the Age band before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a graph showing the change in thickness before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and after 4 and 8 weeks of application. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Next, the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation and cellulite-reducing method of the present invention will be described in detail. The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention contains at least one component (A) selected from α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin.

[0014] <α-Glucosyl Hesperidin> α-Glucosyl hesperidin (also called α-glucosyl hesperidin or αG hesperidin) is a general term for compounds in which one or more glucose molecules are attached to the hydroxyl group in the rutinose unit of hesperidin via an α-1,4 bond. The α-glucosyl hesperidin of the present invention may consist of a single compound having such a structure, or a mixture of two or more compounds. Hesperidin is a compound in which β-rutinose (6-O-α-L-rhamnosyl-β-D-glucose) is attached to the hydroxyl group at the 7-position of hesperetin, i.e., a hesperetin glycoside.

[0015] α-Glucosyl hesperidin can be represented by the following formula (1): In formula (1), n ​​is an integer of 0 or greater than 1. n is preferably an integer of 0 to 19, more preferably an integer of 0 to 10, even more preferably an integer of 0 to 5, and particularly preferably 0.

[0016] [ka]

[0017] α-Glucosyl hesperidin is a compound contained as the main component in a mixture known as "enzyme-treated hesperidin" (sometimes called "transglycosylated hesperidin"). Enzyme-treated hesperidin is a mixture of compounds produced by enzymatic treatment of the sugars of hesperidin, and contains α-glucosyl hesperidin (including monoglucosyl hesperidin), and may also contain hesperidin derivatives other than α-glucosyl hesperidin, such as 7-glucosyl hesperitin (also referred to as other hesperidin derivatives). However, it is preferable that the enzyme-treated hesperidin does not contain hesperetin.

[0018] Examples of the above-mentioned enzymatic treatment of the sugars of hesperidin are as follows: (1) A glycosyltransferase is applied to hesperidin in the presence of a sugar donor to add glucose to the glucose units of hesperidin via an α-1,4 bond, thereby producing α-glucosylhesperidin, and a composition containing unreacted hesperidin and α-glucosylhesperidin is obtained (first enzyme-treated hesperidin). (2) A glucoamylase or the like is applied to the α-glucosylhesperidin produced by (1) above to cleave all but one glucose molecule from the glucose chain bound to the glucose units of hesperidin, thereby producing α-monoglucosylhesperidin, and a composition containing unreacted hesperidin and α-monoglucosylhesperidin is obtained (second enzyme-treated hesperidin). (3) The unreacted hesperidin from (2) above is treated with α-L-rhamnosidase to cleave the rhamnose contained in the rutinose unit of rutin, thereby producing 7-glucosylhesperetin, and a composition containing 7-glucosylhesperetin and α-monoglucosylhesperidin is obtained (third enzyme-treated hesperidin).In the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation or cellulite-reducing method of the present invention, a composition containing any of the α-glucosylhesperidins, namely the first enzyme-treated hesperidin, the second enzyme-treated hesperidin, and the third enzyme-treated hesperidin, may be used.

[0019] An example of the first enzyme treatment is to treat hesperidin with a glycosyltransferase (e.g., an enzyme that has the function of adding glucose to hesperidin, such as cyclodextrin glucanotransferase (CGTase, EC2.4.1.19)) in the presence of an α-glucosyl sugar compound (e.g., cyclodextrin, partial starch hydrolysate).

[0020] Enzyme-treated hesperidin usually contains a mixture of compounds with different numbers of glucose units bound to hesperidin, for example, a mixture of monoglucosyl hesperidin and other α-glucosyl hesperidin. Furthermore, since enzyme-treated hesperidin is generally produced by enzyme treatment, it may contain unreacted hesperidin or other hesperidin derivatives, such as 7-glucosyl hesperetin.

[0021] Considering the effects of the present invention, the enzyme-treated hesperidin is preferably a mixture that contains at least α-glucosylhesperidin and further contains either or both of hesperidin and 7-glucosylhesperetin.

[0022] An example of a commercially available enzyme-treated hesperidin is "αG Hesperidin PS-CC" manufactured by Toyo Sugar Refining Co., Ltd. "αG Hesperidin PS-CC" contains 80% by mass or more of monoglucosyl hesperidin, and also contains hesperidin and 7-glucosyl hesperetin.

[0023] The α-glucosyl hesperidin is preferably α-monoglucosyl hesperidin having one α-glucose molecule bound thereto. In the present invention, it is preferable to use enzyme-treated hesperidin containing α-monoglucosyl hesperidin in an amount of 70 mass% or more relative to the total amount of the enzyme-treated hesperidin (composition).

[0024] α-Monoglucosylhesperidin can be produced by treating α-glucosylhesperidin with a glycosidase to cleave the glucose bonds of the hesperidin, leaving only one glucose bond (second enzyme-treated hesperidin). Examples of glycosidases include enzymes with glucoamylase activity that cleave α-1,4-glucosidic bonds in glucose units, such as glucoamylase (EC 3.2.1.3). The proportion of monoglucosylhesperidin in α-glucosylhesperidin can be adjusted by adjusting the temperature and time of the enzyme treatment with glucoamylase. Furthermore, methods for purifying and separating monoglucosylhesperidin from a mixture of enzyme-treated hesperidin are also known.

[0025] The presence of various α-glucosylhesperidins, hesperidin, and other components contained in enzyme-treated hesperidin can be confirmed by HPLC chromatogram, and the content of each component or the purity of a specific desired component can be calculated from the peak area of ​​the chromatogram.

[0026] The method for producing α-glucosylhesperidin is not particularly limited, and known methods can be used. Because of its high yield and ease of production, α-glucosylhesperidin is preferably produced by enzymatic treatment of hesperidin. The method for obtaining and preparing hesperidin is not particularly limited, and compounds that are generally manufactured and sold as reagents or purified products may be used, or compounds prepared by extraction from raw materials such as the peels of citrus fruits (e.g., mandarins, oranges, etc.).

[0027] <α-Glucosylnaringin> α-Glucosyl naringin (also referred to as α-glucosyl naringin or αG naringin) is a general term for compounds in which one or more glucose molecules are attached to the hydroxyl group of naringin. Naringin is a type of flavonoid in which neohesperidose (L-rhamnosyl-(α1→2)-D-glucose) is beta-bonded to the hydroxyl group at the 7-position of the naringenin (5,7,4'-trihydroxyflavanone) skeleton. α-Glucosyl naringin has a structure in which one or more α-glucose molecules are linked to at least one of the hydroxyl groups at the 3-position (3') of the glucose residue in the rutinose residue and the 4-position (4') of the phenyl group in the naringenin skeleton. The α-glucosyl naringin of the present invention may consist of one or more compounds having such a structure, either singly or as a mixture of two or more.

[0028] α-Glucosylnaringin can be represented by the following formula [I]. In formula [I], R 1 m and R 2 The n's represent the number of α-glucose residues bonded to the 3'-position and the 4'-position, respectively, and are mutually independent integers of 0 or more and usually 25 or less. However, in order for formula [I] to represent "α-glucosylnaringin", it is necessary that m+n≧1 is satisfied, that is, at least one molecule of α-glucose is bonded to naringin (when m=n=0, that is, R 1 , R 2 When both are —OH, formula [I] represents “naringin”.

[0029] [ka]

[0030] α-Glucosyl naringin is a compound contained as the main component in a material known as "enzyme-treated naringin" (sometimes called "transglycosylated naringin"). Enzyme-treated naringin is a product (referred to herein as "first enzyme-treated naringin") obtained by reacting a mixture of naringin and a sugar donor (e.g., dextrin) with a glycosyltransferase (e.g., cyclodextrin glucosyltransferase). It is a mixture of various compounds in which one or more glucose molecules have been added to the hydroxyl groups of naringin, i.e., a mixture containing α-glucosyl naringin and unreacted naringin. For the basic method of producing first enzyme-treated naringin, see, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 4-13691. If necessary, the first enzyme-treated naringin can be purified, for example, using a porous synthetic adsorbent and an appropriate elution solution, to remove sugar donors and other impurities, further reducing the naringin content and obtaining the first enzyme-treated naringin (α-glucosyl naringin purified product) with increased purity of α-glucosyl naringin.

[0031] Preferred α-glucosyl naringin is one in which one α-glucose molecule is linked to the 3'' position of naringin and / or one α-glucose molecule is linked to the 4' position of naringin, i.e., 3''-α-monoglucosyl naringin (in formula [I], m=1, n=0), 4'-α-monoglucosyl naringin (also m=0, n=1), or 3''-4'-α-diglucosyl naringin (also m=1, n=1), of which 3''-α-monoglucosyl naringin is more preferred. In the present invention, it is preferred to use enzyme-treated naringin that contains 80% by weight or more of α-monoglucosyl naringin, particularly 3''-α-monoglucosyl naringin, relative to the entire enzyme-treated naringin (composition).

[0032] Enzyme-treated naringin (referred to as "second enzyme-treated naringin" in this specification) containing more of the above three types of α-mono / diglucosyl naringin than the first enzyme-treated naringin can be obtained, for example, by treating the above-mentioned first enzyme-treated naringin with an enzyme having glucoamylase activity, and cleaving the glycan in which two or more molecules of α-glucose are linked by α-1,4 bonds to the 3'' and / or 4'' positions of naringin by the glycosyltransferase, leaving only the α-glucose residue equivalent to one molecule at the base. Furthermore, by treating the second enzyme-treated naringin with an enzyme having α-glucosidase activity to cleave one molecule's worth of α-glucose residue directly bonded to the hydroxyl group at the 4'-position, 3"-α-monoglucosyl naringin remains, yielding enzyme-treated naringin that contains little or no 4'-α-monoglucosyl naringin and 3"-4'-α-diglucosyl naringin (referred to herein as "third enzyme-treated naringin"). For basic methods for producing the second and third enzyme-treated naringins, see, for example, JP 2002-199896 A.

[0033] Furthermore, by treating the first-enzyme-treated naringin with transglucosidase, transglucosidase has both glucoamylase and α-glucosidase activities, and thus a single-step treatment, rather than the two-step treatment described above, can yield a third-enzyme-treated naringin enriched in 3′-α-monoglucosyl naringin. Furthermore, if necessary, an enzyme with β-glucosidase activity may be treated with the third-enzyme-treated naringin (or may be treated with the first-enzyme-treated naringin simultaneously with transglucosidase) to cleave the neohesperidose residue (unmodified by glycosyltransferase) present in a small amount of unreacted naringin dissolved in aqueous solution from its aglycone, naringenin. The naringenin produced by such treatment has a lower solubility than naringin and therefore forms a precipitate that can be easily removed from the aqueous solution, enabling the recovery of 3′-α-monoglucosyl naringin from the aqueous solution with a higher purity.

[0034] The presence of various α-glucosyl naringin, naringin, and other components contained in enzyme-treated naringin can be confirmed by HPLC chromatograms, and the content of each component or the purity of a desired specific component can be calculated from the peak area of ​​the chromatogram.

[0035] The method for producing α-glucosyl naringin is not particularly limited, and known methods can be used. Because of its high yield and ease of production, it is preferably produced by enzymatic treatment of naringin. The method for obtaining or preparing naringin is not particularly limited, and a compound that is generally manufactured and sold as a reagent or purified product may be used, or a compound prepared by extraction from a raw material such as the peel of citrus fruits (e.g., mandarin oranges, grapefruit, etc.).

[0036] <Cellulite Improvement> "Cellulite improvement" refers to obtaining a better evaluation in cellulite evaluation than before. The method for cellulite evaluation is not particularly limited, and may be an appearance evaluation using an instrument, tomography, histochemical evaluation by collecting skin samples, visual appearance evaluation, a questionnaire by a subject or evaluator, or user judgment. Because the operation is simple and objective results can be obtained, it is preferable that the cellulite-improving topical skin preparation of the present invention can confirm cellulite improvement in an evaluation using an instrument, more preferably evaluation by tomography, and even more preferably evaluation by ultrasonic tomography.

[0037] The equipment used to perform ultrasonic tomography is not particularly limited, and known equipment can be used, such as DermaLab manufactured by Cortex Technology. The indicator of cellulite improvement is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to use as an indicator the structure, shape or state changes characteristic of cellulite skin, such as unevenness of the skin surface, and more preferably the structure, shape or state changes characteristic of cellulite skin observed when analyzing the skin in the depth direction.The structure, shape or state characteristic of cellulite skin observed when analyzing the skin in the depth direction can be, for example, fat lobule hypertrophy, changes in the structure, shape or state of connective tissue, the shape of the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, etc.Preferably, it is the wavy shape of the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, the decrease in collagen density in the dermis, the width of the collagen-poor part, or the thickness of the collagen layer, and more preferably, it is the wavy shape of the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue.The wavy shape of the interface between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue can be evaluated as the length of the interface per a certain length or area of ​​skin. Alternatively, as described in the Examples, a reference plane parallel to the skin surface may be set deeper than the boundary between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and the volume of the space between the reference plane and the boundary between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, or the area of ​​that volume cut out by a specific plane, may be evaluated.When evaluating cellulite improvement using DermaLab manufactured by Cortex Technology, it is preferable to use a reduction in cellulite area, an increase in collagen score, a reduction in Age band, and a reduction in the thickness of the dermal collagen layer as indicators.

[0038] The target area for the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation or cellulite-reducing method of the present invention may be any area where cellulite is observed, but is preferably the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen, where cellulite is most likely to occur, more preferably the thighs or buttocks, and even more preferably the back of the thighs.

[0039] The period for which the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation or cellulite-reducing method of the present invention is applied is not particularly limited, but since the cellulite-reducing effect is effectively exerted, the period is preferably 1 week to 12 months, more preferably 2 weeks to 6 months, and even more preferably 3 weeks to 3 months.

[0040] The number of times that the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation or cellulite-reducing method of the present invention is applied is not particularly limited, but since the cellulite-reducing effect is effectively exerted, it is preferably applied 1 to 3 times per day, more preferably 1 to 2 times per day, and even more preferably 2 times per day.

[0041] <External skin preparation for cellulite treatment> The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention may contain at least one component (A) selected from α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin. The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation may contain either α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin as component (A), or may contain both α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin. Because the cellulite-reducing effect is more effectively achieved, it is preferable to contain either α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin as component (A).

[0042] The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention may consist of component (A) alone, or may be a formulation formulated with a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or various additives, etc., as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired.

[0043] The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation may be a drug, a quasi-drug, or a cosmetic. In order to effectively exert the cellulite-reducing effect, the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is preferably for massage use.

[0044] The form and dosage form of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is usually a liquid (including a paste and a gel). Specific examples include topical liquids, suspensions, emulsions, creams, ointments, etc. These dosage forms or other dosage forms may be appropriately selected depending on the purpose. Among these, topical liquids, creams, or ointments are preferred because they are easy to administer and easily exert a cellulite-reducing effect, and topical liquids, creams, or ointments for massage are more preferred.

[0045] The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparations can be produced by adding α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin according to a method commonly used for these preparations. α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin may be added at the beginning, middle, or end of the production process of the preparation, and the method of addition may be selected from among mixing, kneading, dissolving, immersion, sprinkling, spraying, coating, etc., depending on the form of the preparation.

[0046] The content of component (A) in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 to 10% by mass. When component (A) is α-glucosyl hesperidin, the content of α-glucosyl hesperidin is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 5% by mass, and even more preferably 0.5 to 3% by mass. A content within the above range ensures good stability of α-glucosyl hesperidin and efficient improvement of cellulite. When component (A) is α-glucosyl naringin, the content of α-glucosyl naringin is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 7% by mass, and even more preferably 1 to 4% by mass. A content within the above range ensures good stability of α-glucosyl naringin and efficient improvement of cellulite. Furthermore, when component (A) is α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin, the total content of α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.01 to 10% by mass, more preferably 0.1 to 8% by mass, and even more preferably 0.5 to 6% by mass. A content within the above range ensures good stability of component (A) and efficient improvement of cellulite. However, the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is considered to be 100% by mass.

[0047] When component (A) is α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin, the ratio of the amounts is not particularly limited, but the mass ratio of α-glucosyl hesperidin:α-glucosyl naringin is preferably 1:9 to 9:1, and more preferably 2:8 to 8:2.

[0048] Examples of topical skin preparations for reducing cellulite include pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, and cosmetics such as emulsions, serums, lotions, creams, packs, foundations, sunscreens, cleansers, makeup cosmetics, dispersions, ointments, liquids, aerosols, patches, poultices, and liniments. The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation may contain ingredients that are typically incorporated into pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, or cosmetics for external application to the skin, such as water (purified water, hot spring water, deep sea water, etc.), alcohols, oils, surfactants, metal soaps, gelling agents, powders, water-soluble polymers, film-forming agents, resins, UV protection agents, inclusion compounds, antibacterial agents, fragrances, deodorants, salts, pH adjusters, cooling agents, animal- or microorganism-derived extracts, plant extracts, stabilizers, antioxidants, blood circulation promoters, astringents, antiseborrheic agents, anti-inflammatory agents, cell activators, moisturizers, chelating agents, keratolytic agents, enzymes, hormones, vitamins, and the like, within the scope of the present invention.

[0049] The cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is preferably administered to a living body, particularly a human, in an amount of 0.001 to 10 mg / kg of body weight per day of component (A), preferably 0.01 to 3 mg / kg of body weight per day, more preferably 0.1 to 0.5 mg / kg of body weight per day.

[0050] <Moisturizer> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain a moisturizing agent as an optional ingredient.

[0051] Examples of moisturizing agents include polyhydric alcohols such as glycerin, diglycerin, glyceryl glucoside, ethylene glycol, diethylene glycol, propylene glycol, dipropylene glycol, 1,3-butylene glycol, 1,2-pentanediol, 1,2-hexanediol, polyethylene glycol, and polypropylene glycol; sugars such as xylitol, maltitol, maltose, D-mannite, glucose, fructose, and trehalose; mucopolysaccharides such as sodium chondroitin sulfate and sodium hyaluronate; and NMF components such as urea, sodium lactate, and sodium pyrrolidonate.

[0052] These moisturizing agents may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, polyhydric alcohols are preferred from the viewpoint of high stability and cellulite-reducing effect, and 1,3-butylene glycol or glycerin are more preferred. When the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention contains a moisturizing agent, the content of the moisturizing agent is preferably 1 to 30% by mass, and more preferably 2 to 25% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0053] <Oil> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain an oil as an optional ingredient.

[0054] The oil may be a natural oil, a synthetic oil, or may be in any form, such as solid, semi-solid, or liquid, and examples thereof include isopropyl myristate, butyl myristate, isopropyl palmitate, ethyl oleate, ethyl linoleate, isopropyl linoleate, cetyl caprylate, hexyl laurate, decyl myristate, decyl oleate, oleyl oleate, isostearyl laurate, isotridecyl myristate, isocetyl myristate, isostearyl myristate, octyldodecyl myristate, octyl palmitate, isocetyl palmitate, and isostearyl palmitate. Synthetic ester oils that are fluid at 1 atmosphere and 25°C, such as allyl, isodecyl oleate, isopropyl isostearate, cetyl 2-ethylhexanoate, stearyl 2-ethylhexanoate, propylene glycol isostearate, propylene glycol dicaprate, propylene glycol dioleate, glyceryl tri-2-ethylhexanoate, tri(caprylic / capric acid), isononyl isononanoate, diisopropyl sebacate, alkyl benzoate (C12-C15), and ethylhexyl salicylate; hydrocarbons such as squalane, mineral oil (liquid paraffin), and petrolatum;Di-2-heptylundecyl adipate, isononyl isononanoate, isotridecyl isononanoate, isodecyl isononanoate, cetyl isooctanoate, isostearyl isostearate, cetyl octanoate, oleyl oleate, ethyl oleate, decyl oleate, propylene glycol diisononanoate, neopentylene glycol di-2-ethylhexanoate, propylene glycol dicaprylate, ethylene glycol diisononanoate, neopentyl glycol dicaprate, isostearyl myristate , Isopropyl myristate, Isocetyl myristate, Octyldodecyl myristate, Isopropyl palmitate, Isostearyl palmitate, 2-hexyldecyl palmitate, Octyl palmitate, Myristyl lactate, Cetyl lactate, Octyl lactate, Diisostearyl malate, Cholesteryl 12-hydroxystearate, Pentaneerythritol tetraoctanoate, Polyglyceryl tetraisostearate, Pentaerythritol tetra-2-ethylhexanoate, Ethyl stearate, Butyl stearate Ingredients: Ethyl linoleate, Isopropyl linoleate, N-lauroyl-L-glutamic acid-2-octyldodecyl ester, Isopropyl isostearate, Neopentyl glycol dicaprate, Tri(caprylic / capric acid)glyceryl, Glyceryl tri-2-ethylhexanoate, Trimethylolpropane trioctanoate, Glyceryl trioctanoate, Diglyceryl (2-hexyldecanoate / sebacic acid) oligoester, Polypropylene glycol succinate oligoester, Polyglyceryl triisostearate ester oils such as polyglyceryl diisostearate and polyglyceryl diisostearate; waxes such as beeswax, carnauba wax, and candelilla wax; silicone oils such as dimethylpolysiloxane and methylphenylpolysiloxane; fluorine-based oils such as perfluoropolyether; and oils and fats derived from plants or animals such as olive oil, castor oil, jojoba oil, macadamia nut oil, apricot kernel oil, persic oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, avocado oil, meadowfoam oil, camellia oil, almond oil, perilla oil, sesame oil, borage oil, and shea butter.

[0055] These oils may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, from the viewpoint of emulsion stability, liquid oils are preferred, liquid hydrocarbons are more preferred, and mineral oil or squalane is even more preferred.

[0056] From the viewpoint of the stability of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention, the content of the oil in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is preferably 1 to 50 mass %, more preferably 5 to 30 mass %, based on 100 mass % of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0057] <Surfactants> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain a surfactant (emulsifier) ​​as an optional ingredient.

[0058] The surfactant is not particularly limited as long as it is a surfactant that is normally used in external skin medicines and cosmetics, and examples of surfactants that can be used include nonionic surfactants, anionic surfactants, and amphoteric surfactants.

[0059] Examples of nonionic surfactants include silicone surfactants such as polyoxyalkylene-modified organopolysiloxanes and polyoxyalkyl ether-co-modified organopolysiloxanes; polyethylene glycol dipolyhydroxy fatty acid esters such as polyethylene glycol dipolyhydroxystearate (EO: 2 to 40); glycerin fatty acid esters such as glyceryl stearate and alkylene glycol adducts thereof (e.g., PEG-15 glyceryl stearate); polyglycerin fatty acid esters and alkylene glycol adducts thereof; propylene glycol fatty acid esters and alkylene glycol adducts thereof; sorbitan fatty acid esters and alkylene glycol adducts thereof; sorbitol fatty acid esters and alkylene glycol adducts thereof; polyalkylene glycol fatty acid esters; polyoxyalkylene alkyl ethers; glycerin alkyl ethers; polyoxyethylene alkylphenyl ethers; polyoxyethylene hydrogenated castor oil; alkylene glycol adducts of lanolin; and higher alcohols such as hexadecyl alcohol (cetanol) and lauryl alcohol.

[0060] Examples of anionic surfactants include fatty acid soaps such as sodium N-stearoyl-N-methyl taurate, sodium myristoyl methyl taurate, polyoxyethylene cellulose phosphate, sodium polyoxyethylene lauryl ether phosphate, and sodium stearate, and polyoxyethylene alkyl ether sodium phosphate.

[0061] Amphoteric surfactants include amino acid or betaine type carboxylic acid, sulfate ester, sulfonic acid, and phosphate ester types, such as soybean phospholipid, N,N-dimethyl-N-alkyl-N-carboxylmethylammonium betaine, N,N-dialkylaminoalkylenecarboxylic acid, N,N,N-trialkyl-N-sulfoalkyleneammonium betaine, N,N-dialkyl-N,N-bis(polyoxyethylene sulfate)ammonium betaine, and 2-alkyl-1-hydroxyethyl-1-carboxymethylimidazolinium betaine.

[0062] These surfactants may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, nonionic surfactants are preferred in terms of emulsion stability, and glycerin fatty acid esters such as glyceryl stearate and alkylene glycol adducts thereof are more preferred.

[0063] From the viewpoint of the stability of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention, the content of the surfactant in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is preferably 0.5 to 20 mass %, more preferably 1 to 10 mass %, based on 100 mass % of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0064] <Emulsifying agent> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain an emulsifying aid as an optional ingredient.

[0065] The emulsifying aid is not limited as long as it has the effect of assisting emulsification by the surfactant, and examples thereof include fatty acids such as lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, and oleic acid; and higher alcohols such as stearyl alcohol and behenyl alcohol.

[0066] These emulsifying aids may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, fatty acids and higher alcohols are preferred from the viewpoint of emulsion stability, with stearic acid and behenyl alcohol being more preferred.

[0067] From the viewpoint of the stability of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention, the content of the emulsifying aid in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation is preferably 0.1 to 15% by mass, and more preferably 0.5 to 10% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0068] <Stabilizer> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain an antioxidant stabilizer as an optional ingredient.

[0069] Specific examples of the stabilizer include ascorbyl tetrahexyldecanoate, ascorbyl stearate, ascorbyl palmitate, tocopherols, rosemary extract, tea extract, dibutylhydroxytoluene, butylhydroxyanisole, and phenolic antioxidants.

[0070] These stabilizers may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, tocopherol and tocopherol acetate are preferred because they have high oxidative stability and have little effect on the scent and color of the formulation. The content of the stabilizer in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention is preferably 0.0001 to 3% by mass, and more preferably 0.001 to 1% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0071] <Preservatives> The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation to be applied externally to the skin may contain a preservative as an optional ingredient.

[0072] Preservatives include benzoic acid, benzoates, alkyldiaminoethylglycine hydrochloride, photosensitizers, chlorcresol, chlorobutanol, salicylic acid, salicylates, sorbic acid and its salts, dehydroacetic acid and its salts, trichlorohydroxydiphenyl ether (also known as triclosan), parahydroxybenzoate esters (parabens) and their sodium salts, phenoxyethanol, phenethyl alcohol, phenol, sodium lauryldiaminoethylglycine, resorcinol, zinc-ammonia-silver complex substituted zeolite, pantothenyl ethyl ether benzoate, isopropylmethylphenol, cetylpyridinium chloride, benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride, chlorhexidine hydrochloride, o-phenylphenol, o-phenylphenol sodium Examples of suitable antibacterial agents include thorium, silver-copper zeolite, chlorhexidine gluconate, cresol, chloramine T, chloroxylenol, chlorphenesin, chlorhexidine, 1,3-dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin, alkylisoquinolinium bromide, thianthol, thymol, trichlorocarbanilide, parachlorophenol, halocarban, hinokitiol, zinc pyrithione, piroctone olamine, iodide propynyl butylcarbamate, polyaminopropyl biguanide, methylisothiazolinone, methylchloroisothiazolinone / methylisothiazolinone solution, N,N'-methylenebis[N'-(3-hydroxymethyl-2,5-dioxo-4-imidazolidinyl)urea], and paradimethylaminostyrylheptylmethylthiazolium iodide.

[0073] These preservatives may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, phenoxyethanol, ethyl parahydroxybenzoate, and methyl parahydroxybenzoate are preferred because they are highly effective as preservatives and have little effect on the scent and color of the formulation. The content of the preservative in the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation of the present invention is preferably 0.001 to 3% by mass, and more preferably 0.01 to 1% by mass, based on 100% by mass of the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation (composition).

[0074] <How to improve cellulite> The cellulite-reducing method of the present invention may comprise the step of applying to the skin of a subject a cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation containing at least one component (A) selected from α-glucosyl hesperidin and α-glucosyl naringin.

[0075] The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation used in the cellulite-reducing method of the present invention is the above-mentioned cellulite-reducing external skin preparation of the present invention. The method for applying the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation to the skin of a subject is not particularly limited, and any suitable method can be used depending on the subject, such as simple application, multi-layer therapy, occlusive therapy, moist skin therapy, etc.

[0076] In order to efficiently reduce cellulite, the cellulite-reducing method of the present invention preferably includes a step of massaging the skin at least once before, simultaneously with, and after the step of applying the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation to the skin. The step of massaging the skin is preferably after the step of applying the cellulite-reducing topical skin preparation to the skin.

[0077] In the cellulite-reducing method of the present invention, in order to efficiently reduce cellulite, the component (A) is preferably administered in a range of 0.001 to 10 mg / kg body weight per day, preferably 0.01 to 3 mg / kg body weight per day, more preferably 0.1 to 0.5 mg / kg body weight per day.

[0078] The cellulite reducing method of the present invention preferably includes a step of evaluating the cellulite of the subject by ultrasound tomography. [Example]

[0079] The present invention will now be described in more detail with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

[0080] [Example 1] Human test by applying test product ≪Method≫ Eight subjects were asked to apply a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin or a massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin to themselves for eight weeks, and changes in cellulite were examined.

[0081] [Exam Schedule] The study was an open-label study, and subjects were measured before the start of the study, four weeks after application, and eight weeks after application.

[0082] 〔subject〕 Subjects were those who met all of the following entry criteria and none of the exclusion criteria. The age of the eight subjects was 38.3±8.2 years (mean±standard deviation). Entry criteria 1. Japanese women aged 30 to 49 at the time of consent Entry Criteria 2. Those who have cellulite on the back of their thighs (those who can see bumps when they grab the flesh on the back of their thighs and twist it like they're wringing out a rag) Entry Criteria 3. BMI 22 to 35

[0083] Exclusion criteria 1. Pregnant or possibly pregnant women and those who are breastfeeding Exclusion Criteria 2: Subjects who may have allergic reactions to the test product ingredients Exclusion Criteria 3. Participants in other clinical trials

[0084] The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and with ethical considerations, after obtaining written consent from the subjects to participate in the study based on their own free will.

[0085] [Test item] The test products used were a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin or a massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin. The composition of the test products is shown below. Note that % means % by mass.

[0086] (α-Glucosyl Hesperidin Massage Cream: hereafter also referred to as HES, a cream containing citrus-derived polyphenols, or αG Hesperidin PS-CC 1% cream) αG Hesperidin PS-CC (manufactured by Toyo Sugar Refining Co., Ltd.) 1.0% Mineral oil 20.0% Behenyl alcohol 5.0% Stearic acid 1.0% Glyceryl stearate 2.5% PEG-15 Glyceryl Stearate 2.0% Methylparaben 0.2% Phenoxyethanol 0.6% Tocopherol 0.05% 1,3-butylene glycol 4.0% Glycerin 1.0% Water 62.65% Total 100.0%

[0087] (α-Glucosyl Naringin Massage Cream: hereafter referred to as citrus-derived polyphenol-containing cream NAR or α-G naringin 2% cream) αG Naringin (Third enzyme-treated Naringin) 2.0% Mineral oil 20.0% Behenyl alcohol 5.0% Stearic acid 1.0% Glyceryl stearate 2.5% PEG-15 Glyceryl Stearate 2.0% Methylparaben 0.2% Phenoxyethanol 0.6% Tocopherol 0.05% 1,3-butylene glycol 4.0% Glycerin 1.0% Water 61.65% Total 100.0%

[0088] (Manufacturing method) The oil system heated to 80°C was stirred, and the water system heated to 80°C was added and emulsified, after which αG hesperidin PS-CC or αG naringin was added and mixed. The resulting creams were filled into jars, and the jar containing the α-glucosyl hesperidin massage cream was labeled as being applied to the right side, and the jar containing the α-glucosyl naringin massage cream was labeled as being applied to the left side.

[0089] [Coating] The cream was applied twice a day (morning and evening). The morning application was after waking up or during the day, and the evening application was after bathing. The amount used was the amount taken up using the tip of the index finger to the first joint (approximately 0.5 g per application). If this amount was not enough, up to three times the amount could be applied.

[0090] (Application procedure) 1. The test product designated for "right side application" was applied to the right leg. The test product was dispensed into the palm of the hand using the first joint of the index finger, and applied from the back of the knee to the hip of the right leg, massaging the skin upwards.

[0091] 2. After finishing applying the cream to my right leg, I washed my hands. 3. The test product designated as "apply to the left side" was applied to the left leg. Using the tip of the index finger to the first joint, the test product was dispensed into the palm of the hand (approximately 0.5 g per application), and applied to the left leg from the back of the knee to the hip, massaging the skin upwards.

[0092] 〔evaluation〕 (Thigh circumference measurement) A region 10 cm below the subject's crotch was measured using a handy 3D scanner (a non-contact 3D anthropometric measurement system manufactured by Altec). During the first observation, a ruler was used to measure 10 cm from the crotch, and the distance from the floor to that region was also measured. From the next observation onwards, the distance from the floor was kept the same as the first, so that a region at the same height on the thigh was observed each time. Measurements were taken three times per observation, and the median value was used.

[0093] (Cellulite improvement effect) Using an ultrasound tomography device, DermaLab (manufactured by Cortex Technology), measurements were taken at a location 10 cm below the crotch at the center of the back of the subject's thigh. During the first observation, a ruler was used to measure 10 cm from the crotch, and the distance from the floor to that location was also measured. From the next observation onward, the distance from the floor was kept the same as the first, ensuring that the same height of the thigh was observed each time. The width of the back of the thigh at that height was also measured with a ruler, and the center of the measurement probe was placed at the center of that width.

[0094] The measurement was performed by scanning three-quarters of a circle (17.6 mm) in one second while the piezoelectric element emitted ultrasonic waves. The measurement width was 150 μm, the measurement depth was 0.7556 mm, and the number of pixels was 256 × 393.

[0095] The intensity of the reflected sound was divided into 100 gradations for each pixel, and images were taken of the five colors, from lowest to highest: black, green, red, yellow, and white. The images were enlarged 4.5 times in the depth direction and displayed. From the images obtained, the cellulite area, collagen score, age band, and thickness values ​​were calculated using the following method. Measurements were performed three times per observation, and the values ​​for cellulite area, collagen score, age band, and thickness were calculated by using the median values ​​calculated from a total of three images, one taken for each measurement.

[0096] (cellulite area) The cellulite area represents the disruption of the boundary between the dermis and subcutaneous tissue, and was calculated using a program built into DermaLab. Specifically, the method was as follows: A green pixel located deepest in the skin was selected, and a line A parallel to the skin surface was drawn at the depth of that pixel. A green and black boundary line B was drawn shallower than line A. The area enclosed by line A and boundary line B was taken as the cellulite area. If the end of boundary line B does not touch line A, a perpendicular line C was drawn from the end of boundary line B to line A, and the area enclosed by line A, boundary line B, and perpendicular line C was taken as the cellulite area.

[0097] (Collagen Score) The collagen score represents the density of collagen in the dermis and was calculated using a built-in program in DermaLab.

[0098] (Age band) The age band is a collagen-poor area that occurs due to collagen loss just below the epidermis. The width (μm) of the age band was calculated using a program built into DermaLab.

[0099] (Thickness) Thickness is the thickness (μm) of the dermal collagen layer, and was calculated using a program built into DermaLab.

[0100] ≪Results≫ (thigh circumference) The measurement results of thigh circumference are shown in Table 1.

[0101] [Table 1]

[0102] No significant change was observed in thigh circumference before and after application of massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin.

[0103] (Cellulite improvement effect) Figures 1 to 6 show ultrasound images of the back of the thigh taken before, 4 weeks after, and 8 weeks after application of an α-glucosyl hesperidin massage cream. Each image corresponds to a length of 17.6 mm and a width of 3.4 mm. In these images, collagen density is displayed in black, green, red, yellow, and white, from lowest to highest. Because the dermis contains a lot of collagen but the subcutaneous fat does not, in normal skin, the dermis appears green, red, yellow, or white, while the subcutaneous fat appears black. Furthermore, the epidermis is also a highly echogenic tissue, appearing white. In contrast, in skin with cellulite, there are typically dark areas in the dermis, and the boundary between black and green appears wavy between the dermis and subcutaneous fat.

[0104] In Figure 1, before application of the test product, there were areas of the dermis that appeared black, and the boundary between the black and green was wavy between the dermis and subcutaneous fat. In subject 1, after 4 and 8 weeks of application of the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin, the areas of the dermis that appeared black decreased, and especially after 8 weeks, the boundary between the black and green became less wavy and separated the dermis and subcutaneous fat into an almost straight line. In other words, it is assumed that cellulite has improved in the areas of the skin where the massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin was applied.

[0105] Figure 2 shows images of the back of the thigh of subject 1 taken with an ultrasound tomography device before application of the α-glucosyl naringin-containing massage cream, and four and eight weeks after application. Before application, there were areas of blackness in the dermis, and the boundary between the black and green wavy lines between the dermis and subcutaneous fat. Four and eight weeks after application of the α-glucosyl naringin massage cream, the areas of blackness in the dermis had decreased, and especially after eight weeks, the wavy lines in the green boundary line had decreased, and it had become almost linear, separating the dermis and subcutaneous fat. This suggests that cellulite has improved in the areas of the skin where the α-glucosyl naringin massage cream was applied.

[0106] When subjects 2 and 3 applied massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin or massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin, the same results as those of subject 1 were obtained. The cellulite area, collagen score, age band, and thickness values ​​are shown in Table 2.

[0107] [Table 2]

[0108] Figure 7, based on Table 2, shows a graph of cellulite area after application of a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin. Application reduced cellulite area, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application. Figure 8, based on Table 2, shows a graph of collagen score after application of a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin. Application increased collagen score, with significant differences observed 8 weeks after application. Figure 9, based on Table 2, shows a graph of age band after application of a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin. Application reduced the age band, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application. Figure 10, based on Table 2, shows a graph of thickness after application of a massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin. Application reduced thickness, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application.

[0109] Figure 11, based on Table 2, shows a graph of cellulite area after application of massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin. Application reduced cellulite area, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application. Figure 12, based on Table 2, shows a graph of collagen score after application of massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin. Application increased collagen score, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application. Figure 13, based on Table 2, shows a graph of age band after application of massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin. Application reduced the age band, with significant differences observed 4 and 8 weeks after application. Figure 14, based on Table 2, shows a graph of thickness after application of massage cream containing α-glucosyl naringin. Although no significant differences were observed, thickness tended to decrease after application.

[0110] Although the use of massage cream containing α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin did not change thigh circumference, cellulite was improved as assessed by ultrasound tomography. Therefore, it is thought that α-glucosyl hesperidin or α-glucosyl naringin changes the state of connective tissue and improves cellulite. Industrial Applicability

[0111] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an external skin preparation for cellulite reduction and a method for reducing cellulite that can reduce cellulite easily without requiring special equipment or procedures.

Claims

1. A cellulite-improving skin preparation for external application to the skin at a site where cellulite is observed, comprising α-glucosyl naringin, The α-glucosyl naringin contains 80% by weight or more of 3″-α-monoglucosyl naringin.

2. 2. The cellulite-reducing external skin preparation according to claim 1, which is for massage.

3. The cellulite-improving skin topical preparation according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the content of α-glucosyl naringin is 0.01 to 10% by mass.

Images