Pleuran-β-Glucan from Oyster Culinary-Medicinal Mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus (Agaricomycetes), Soothes and Improves Skin Parameters

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UVB radiation, is one of the major risk factors for environmentally influenced skin disorders. β-D-glucans represent a class of natural compounds, and their use in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries is increasing. The goal of this study was to evaluate the soothing effect of a β-glucan pleuran-based cream against skin alterations caused by a solar simulator (UVA/UVB exposure) and to assess the efficacy of the cream after 30 days of use on the face and body in 20 human subjects with all skin types (sensitive, atopic, and normal) and phototypes II and III. The study consisted of the following two tests: one short term and one long term. In the short-term test, the minimal erythemal dose was determined by applying a pattern of radiation consisting of six doses of UVA+UVB radiation and was visually assessed 24 h after UV exposure. In the long-term test, pleuran-based cream was applied twice a day on both the nonirradiated face and body of all subjects for a 30-day period. Subsequently, noninvasive techniques such as skin moisture, skin brightness/radiance, skin elasticity, and total antioxidant capability were utilized. The pleuran-based cream had a positive effect on erythema induced by UV exposure, with visibly reduced erythema compared to the control area. Moreover, long-term use of the cream over a 30-day period improved all monitored skin parameters on the face and body. In summary, these results indicate that β-glucans can be used as an active ingredient with UV light-protective and soothing properties after UV exposure for the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.