Researchers have made a discovery in the field of dermatology, uncovering a potential solution to combat skin aging. A new study, presented at the NUTRITION 2023, reveals that dealcoholized muscadine wine (DMW) has a significant positive effect on skin conditions associated with aging. The research focused on the impact of DMW on inflammation, oxidative stress, and UVB-induced erythema in healthy females aged 40-67, employing a randomized, single-blinded, placebo-controlled, cross-over design.

The study, conducted by a team of dermatologists and nutritionists, followed seventeen healthy women aged 40-67, all with Fitzpatrick skin types 2 and 3. Participants were strictly advised to avoid Vaccinium products, botanical dietary supplements, and probiotic supplements during the study to minimize potential confounding factors.
The research commenced with a 7-day run-in period, during which participants were assigned to consume either 300 mL of DMW or a placebo for six weeks. Following a 21-day wash-out period, the participants switched to the opposite beverage for an additional six weeks.
Several skin parameters were measured at baseline and after each six-week period, including transepidermal water loss, elasticity, UVB-induced erythema, smoothness, and roughness, among others. Moreover, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers in the blood were assessed using ELISA and colorimetric methods.
The results were striking. Consumption of DMW significantly reduced transepidermal water loss on the face, improved skin pH, and enhanced net elasticity compared to baseline levels. Gross elasticity, an important indicator of skin firmness, showed a significant increase after DMW consumption compared to the placebo.
On the forearm, DMW intake notably increased gross elasticity and net elasticity, while decreasing viscoelasticity, leading to smoother and less rough skin. In the blood, DMW consumption triggered an increase in glutathione peroxidase activity, a potent antioxidant, and reduced the levels of advanced glycation end products and matrix metalloprotease-9, both linked to skin aging.
While further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind DMW's effects on the skin, these initial results offer hope for individuals seeking safe and effective ways to maintain youthful and healthy skin as they age.
Source:
Christman L. Dealcoholized muscadine wine improved skin health, reduced oxidative stress and inflammation in women in a randomized controlled trial. Presented at: NUTRITION; July 22-25, 2023; Boston