Skin aging is a complex process driven by changes in the skin’s structural and functional integrity. It is influenced by both intrinsic factors, such as genetics and metabolism, as well as extrinsic factors like UV exposure and pollution.
Together, these elements contribute to visible signs of aging, including wrinkles, loss of elasticity, and pigmentation changes, alongside microscopic alterations that can only be detected through molecular studies.
As the global demand for anti-aging and well-aging products continues to rise, the need for cutting-edge cosmetic solutions has never been greater.
This growing trend highlights the importance of rigorous research and testing to develop effective products that promote skin longevity, and prevent or reverse the visible effects of aging.
At QIMA Life Sciences, we empower our clients by providing innovative models and assays tailored to their research needs.
Our expertise in skin biology, cellular and molecular assays, and advanced image analysis makes us the ideal partner for your dermo-cosmetic innovations.
We Support You Through Every Stage of Product Development
Our Skin Aging Preclinical Solutions
IN VITRO MODELS
- NHEK (Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes)
- NHDF (Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts)
- RHE (Reconstructed Human Epidermis)
- Dermal equivalent
- Reconstructed Full-Thickness Human Skin
EX VIVO MODELS
- Human Skin Explants (Ex vivo skin)
Intrinsic Skin Aging Models:
PRIMARILY BASED ON:
- Stresses applied (oxidative, medium depletion)
- Genetic engineering (shRNA technology)
- Aged primary cells
- Hayflick model
Extrinsic Skin Aging Models:
PRIMARY STRESSES INCLUDE:
- Infrared radiation
- UV radiation
- Particulate matter
We can help you substantiate skin aging-related claims
Epidermal Renewal
Dermal Restoration
Collagen Synthesis Boost
Stimulation of Hyaluronic Acid Production
Improved Elasticity
Hydration
Aging Spots Prevention
Skin Metabolic Activity Restoration
Mitochondrial Function Support
Inflammation Reduction
Antioxidant Activity
UV Damage & Oxidative Stress Prevention
Telomere Stabilization
Reduction of Glycation End Products (AGEs)
Reduction of Senescent Cells
Age-Related Gene Expression Modulation
Our Skin Aging Clinical Solutions
BIOANALYSIS OF CLINICAL SAMPLES
- Sample collection (swabbing or tape stripping)
- Analysis and quantification of cellular components (DNA, proteins, lipids) via analytical chemistry
- Biomarker analysis
CLINICAL IMAGING
- Image capture
- Image analysis
- Ilustration services
- Grading solutions
CLINICAL TRIALS
- Clinical study implementation
- Clinical study performance
- Data management
- Data analysis
We can help you substantiate skin aging-related claims
Wrinkle Number & Depth Reduction
Fine Lines Reduction
Under Eye Bag Reduction
Sagging Reduction
Replumping Effect
Skin Firmness & Elasticity
Moisturization & Hydration
Skin Smoothness & Radiance
Skin Toning & Evenness
Age Spot & Hyperpigmentation Reduction
Skin Aging Study Examples
MOLECULAR LEVEL
Test: Telomere length
Interest: With each cycle of DNA replication, the shortening of telomeres leads to a gradual loss of genetic material, a process closely associated with cellular aging.
Method: qPCR
Model: Aged fibroblasts (Hayflick/replicative model)
Interpretation of results: Aged fibroblasts exhibit significantly shorter telomere lengths compared to those in normal (“young”) fibroblasts.
CELLULAR LEVEL
Test: Mitochondrial respiration
Interest: The deterioration of the collagen-elastin fiber network leads to reduced skin elasticity, a key indicator of skin aging.
Method: Mitochondrial respiration monitoring (Seahorse® analysis)
Model: Normal human epidermal keratinocytes, NHEK (In vitro 2D)
Interpretation of results: The addition of the test compound leads to a significant enhancement in mitochondrial activity capacity.
TISSULAR LEVEL
Test: Hyaluronan synthesis
Interest: During the aging process, changes in extracellular matrix proteins occur, including a decrease in collagen levels within the dermis.
Method: Immunohistofluorescence
Model: Ex vivo model of “intrinsically aged” human skin (In vitro 3D)
Interpretation of results: Collagen I levels are reduced in the aged model compared to the “normal” control.
CLINICAL LEVEL
Test: Wrinkle depth quantification
Method: Image analysis
Model: Human volunteers
Interpretation of results: The treatment led to a significant reduction in wrinkle depth compared to baseline (quantitative data not presented). The accompanying image illustrates both the before and after effects overlaid on an avatar representation.
At QIMA Life Sciences, we specialize in providing comprehensive solutions for studying skin aging and longevity through validated models at both preclinical and clinical levels.
Our dedication to scientific innovation drives us to develop cutting-edge models and approaches, staying aligned with the latest advancements in longevity research.
Explore All Our Models & Tests in Our Brochure
Related Publications
PRECLINICAL SOLUTIONS
‘Speed-ageing’ of human skin in serum-free organ culture ex vivo
CLINICAL SOLUTIONS
SCAWA scales: A new digital tool for wrinkles clinical grading based on AI
What’s New in Testing?
PRECLINICAL SOLUTIONS
Telomere Length Assay
Telomerase Activity Assay
CLINICAL SOLUTIONS
SCAWA Scale: New Digital Grading Tool for Visual Assessment of Wrinkles
Interested in Learning More?
Explore Other Related Topics
MITOCHONDRIAL METABOLISM
CELLULAR SENESCENCE
IMAGING, VIDEO & 3D: DYNACAM®
SKIN AGING RESEARCH & TESTING
