Throughout history, silk has been known for its solid yet light texture. It has many purposes, including clothing, decorations, fishing gear, and musical instruments. Silk can keep people warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making it a valued commodity. However, scientists later discovered that silk contained more than its luxurious fabric.
In 1979, scientists revealed that silkworm cocoons also contained sericin, a natural polymer found in silkworm cocoons with the potential for tissue regeneration. Silk Sericin is the protein that coats the two fibroin filaments within a cocoon. Further research in 2012 confirmed that silk sericin is a vital biomaterial for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, saving countless lives.
Silk sericin was found to have numerous properties that could effectively combat signs of skin ageing. Among those properties are:
- Improved collagen production: Collagen production naturally declines as we age, leading to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Silk sericin has been found to enhance the skin's natural collagen production, resulting in increased plumpness, suppleness, and reduced visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.
- Enhanced blood flow and nutrition delivery: Silk sericin promotes the development of new blood vessels, improving blood flow and the delivery of nutrients to the skin's layers. This ability supports tissue growth and vitality, contributing to healthier-looking skin.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Silk sericin has been shown to inhibit the generation of pro-inflammatory cytokines, effectively reducing skin inflammation, redness, and irritations. It is particularly beneficial for sensitive skin prone to irritation.
- Wound healing and scar reduction: Studies have indicated that silk sericin contains Transforming Growth Factors (TGF) β1, β2, and β3, aiding wound healing and reducing scars. Additionally, sericin promotes cell proliferation, migration, and collagen formation, which are crucial for the healing process. Its antioxidant and antibacterial properties also help prevent wound infections.
- Deep hydration and moisture retention: Silk sericin hydrates the skin by mimicking the Natural Moisturizing Factor (NMF) and forming a protective barrier that minimises Trans-Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL). It effectively seals in moisture, keeping the skin hydrated. This ability also stimulates cell proliferation, protects skin against ultraviolet radiation, and accelerates wound healing.
Considering these therapeutic characteristics, silk sericin is a valuable ingredient in skincare products.
Celebrating the Silk Discovery
The annual Silk Road Week 2023, starting on July 12, aims to honour the ancient trade routes that brought silk to Western markets. Following the designation of the Silk Roads as a UNESCO World Heritage Site on June 22, 2020, more than 200 groups worldwide are participating in this event.
Among them, Alexandr&Co., the world's only silk-sericin skincare firm, commemorates and showcases silk's extraordinary characteristics beyond its use as fabric. The company encourages Singaporeans to experience silk sericin skincare for themselves. Alexandr&Co. is offering a free travel moisturiser jar to Singaporeans over 35 as part of the celebration.
Interested individuals are required to pre-register at www.alexandr-co.com/pages/ndp-moisturer-redemption to redeem the beauty bottle. The registration and redemption period for the free jar is valid until July 31, 2023, or while supplies last.
For more details, please visit www.alexandr-co.com
