Abstract
Ultraviolet B (UVB), a component of solar ultraviolet light, is a major contributor to skin photodamage. UVB exposure primarily affects the epidermis, which leads to wrinkle formation, loss of skin elasticity, oxidative stress, and inflammation. Prolonged or intense UVB exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer. Collagen peptides are known as functional foods that improve skin dryness and wound healing. In this study, we aimed to investigate the protective and ameliorative effects of a low-molecular-weight collagen peptide (LMWCP) with a high absorption rate and photodamage. In vitro analysis using human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) demonstrated that LMWCP promoted skin protection by increasing procollagen type I production, enhancing cell proliferation and migration, and inhibiting MMP-1 activity. Furthermore, LMWCP intake was indicated by improved skin hydration, reduced trans-epidermal water loss (TEWL), and changes in the clinical parameters, including skin elasticity, erythema, and scaling scores in UVB-exposed hairless mice. In the UVB-damaged tissues, an increase in skin elasticity-related enzymes was observed along with a decrease in aging-related and pro-inflammatory gene expression. Histological analysis revealed an increase in collagen content and restoration of dermal thickness. These findings suggested that LMWCP has significant benefits in preventing and improving UVB-induced skin damage.