Researchers at Solabia Nutrition and Maastricht University evaluated systemic biomarkers associated with tissue aging in 65 participants and conducted a subgroup analysis of 26 to assess skin microstructure.
While no statistically significant effects on systemic markers of tissue aging were observed, the trends suggested “potential modulation of pathways involved in extracellular matrix preservation and protein glycation,” they wrote in Frontiers in Nutrition.
The subgroup analysis using video dermoscopy revealed a reduction in pore number and surface skewness in the supplement group. These measures of skin texture and surface peaks and valleys “point toward a localized dermal effect of Bonolive,” Solabia stated.
Pore number reflects the skin microstructure and can be influenced by hormones. The study noted that a reduction in pore number may indicate smoother skin morphology or improved barrier function.
“The results are encouraging: Bonolive intake was associated with preserved elastin levels compared to placebo, where elastin degradation was observed, as well as a reduction in pentosidine, a key marker of cellular aging,” Billie Icheva, marketing & communications manager at Solabia, told NutraIngredients.
Innovative ingredient in the beauty from within space
Olive leaf extract is emerging as a promising ingredient in a skincare market valued between $3.1 and $3.9 billion globally and projected to double by 2033.
A key active ingredient in olive leaf extract is oleuropein, which is standardized to 40% in the Bonolive extract used in the 12-week study.
Oleuropein and other phenolic compounds, such as hydroxytyrosol, have previously demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may counteract key processes in tissue aging, such as oxidative stress and protein glycation.
The anti-inflammatory properties of olive leaf extract may be beneficial post-menopause, when declining estrogen can contribute to increased inflammatory activity and “inflammaging”.
“The latest research on Bonolive strengthens its position as an innovative ingredient in the beauty-from-within space,” Icheva said.
“These findings are highly relevant for the beauty industry, as brands increasingly look to combine ingestible solutions with topical skincare. Bonolive offers a natural, science-backed option for a holistic approach to women’s beauty and healthy aging.”
The extract already has a strong clinical background in women’s health and menopause and took home the Innovation in Women’s Health NutraIngredients Award last year.
Future studies
Given the gradual nature of skin aging, the researchers recommended future studies with more extended intervention periods sufficient to detect meaningful effects.
“A further study with another star ingredient AstaPure is ongoing in the same area, diving deeper into slowing down skin aging,” Icheva noted, adding that the results will be available next year.
Source: Frontiers in Nutrition. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1670194. “Effects of olive leaf extract supplementation on systemic markers of tissue aging and remodeling in postmenopausal women: a randomized controlled trial with exploratory skin outcomes“. Authors: Lasfar, A., et al
