Medium-Chain Glycerides for Sebum Restoration

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current treatments for dry and hypo-seborrheic skin, including topical applications and oral supplementation with fatty acids, have limitations such as frequent renewal requirements, localized effectiveness, and potential side effects, and do not adequately address the underlying issue of sebum deficiency.

Innovation Solution

The use of medium-chain glycerides, specifically medium-chain triglycerides, administered orally or parenterally, which stimulate sebum production and restore the skin's natural moisture barrier, effectively treating dry and weakened keratin materials, including skin, scalp, and hair.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If topical applications are used to restore skin barrier, then skin hydration is improved, but frequent renewal is required and effectiveness is limited to applied areas

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveskin hydrationVSAvoidfrequent renewal
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs self-service by stimulating the skin's own sebaceous glands to produce sebum endogenously. Medium-chain glycerides are administered orally or parenterally to trigger increased sebum production, allowing the skin to restore and maintain its own barrier function without requiring repeated external applications. This internal stimulation mechanism eliminates the need for frequent topical renewal.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Reliability

If topical applications are used to restore skin barrier, then local skin hydration is improved, but effectiveness is limited to the area of application

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveskin hydrationVSAvoidarea of effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent achieves universality by using a systemic administration route (oral or parenteral) that delivers medium-chain glycerides throughout the body. This approach simultaneously treats multiple skin areas and addresses the underlying sebum deficiency systemically, rather than treating only the localized application site. The multi-functional benefit extends to overall skin health and sebum production across the entire body.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Reliability

If oral supplementation with fatty acids is used, then sebum production is stimulated, but side effects may occur

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesebum productionVSAvoidside effects
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by selecting medium-chain glycerides with specific chain lengths (C6-C12) and controlled purity levels (≥90%). These precise parameter specifications optimize the compound's metabolic profile to stimulate sebum production while minimizing adverse effects. The controlled parameters ensure the substance is efficiently metabolized and excreted, reducing the risk of side effects compared to broader fatty acid supplementation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Data Source

PatentEP1887890B1Treating keratinous dryness using glycerides
Publication Date: 2014.07.02 LABES INNEOV

AI summary

The invention relates to a use of medium-chain glyceride(s) as an active agent for preparing a composition for oral and/or parenteral absorption and serving to prevent and/or treat dry and/or weakened keratinous materials.