Introduction

ATP3 with REGU®-AGE PF eye gel contains a 3% concentration of acetyl tetrapeptide-5 (ATP), a peptide that reduces undereye puffiness due to water accumulation by improving local vascular system circulation. It also interrupts glycation, a degradation process that leads to wrinkles and loss of firmness.

Mechanism

Collagen and elastin in the dermis support the overall structure of the skin. They are normally linked in a pattern and network that allows them to be repaired. Protein glycation is an irreversible reaction where excess sugar (glucose and fructose) binds to collagen and elastin, adding cross-links to the structure that interfere with the repair and maintenance mechanism. This process also gives rise to the formation and accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), leading to various typical signs of aging, such as thinner and wrinkled skin^1,2. As it is almost impossible to stop glycation, prevention is the key defence strategy. It is suggested that ATP inhibits glycation by limiting the inactivation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) which is one of the proteins involved, thus preventing the rest of the glycation process. This protects the collagen network, leading to the restoring and strengthening of skin collagen integrity^3,4,5. On the other hand, loose skin around the eyes as a result of aging allows fat and fluid to accumulate (eyelid edema), forming under-eye bags. ATP also decreases vascular permeability and avoids fluid retention around the eyes, thereby improving local vascular system circulation and alleviates puffy eyebags^3,4,6. REGU®-AGE PF is a mixture of purified rice and soy peptides, and yeast-derived superoxide dismutase. Studies have shown that rice peptide increases skin elasticity and smoothness by inhibiting the activity of collagen degrading enzymes (e.g., collagenase and elastase)^7-9. Soy peptide stimulates the growth of fibroblasts, increasing collagen levels in the skin. Both superoxide dismutase and soy peptide inhibit reactive oxygen species activities (e.g., superoxide ions and peroxide) to improve oxygen supply and microcirculation in the eye area, alleviating puffiness and periorbital hyperpigmentation (dark circles)^10-12. Caffeine is another ingredient incorporated in the formula for alleviating under-eye swelling and dark circles. Its vasoconstriction properties can effectively improve microcirculatory blood flow around the eyes and at the same time provide a warming sensation^13-15.