Keratinocyte Proliferative and Wound Healing Effects of Edible Bird's Nest Extract on Human Skin

Edible bird’s nest is a delicacy of Chinese cuisine. Its major components include mucin and sialic acid in addition to epidermal growth factor-like substances. However, its effects on skin cells and skin barrier function currently remain unknown. Therefore, we herein examined the effects of edible bird’s nest extract (EBN) on skin cell proliferation, wound healing, and tight junction proteins as well as human skin barrier function. The results obtained showed that EBN (0.1%) enhanced the proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts as well as the migration and tight junction protein expression by keratinocytes. The oral ingestion of EBN (70 mg/day) standardized by sialic acid for 1 month reduced transepidermal water loss, the shallow wrinkle area, and dermal thickness. These results suggest that EBN exerts epidermal protective and smoothing effects through keratinocytes. Thus, EBN is a valuable ingredient for maintaining healthy skin.