From the Guidelines
Mevalonic acid is not directly useful in supporting skin longevity and function beyond aesthetic benefits, as the current evidence does not specifically address its role in skin health. The provided study 1 focuses on the molecular players of the LDL-C pathway and the safety of very low LDL-C levels, without mentioning the direct impact of mevalonic acid on skin longevity and function. However, mevalonic acid is mentioned as a precursor in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, which is crucial for maintaining skin barrier integrity and cellular function. Some key points to consider:
- Mevalonic acid is a critical precursor in the cholesterol synthesis pathway, which is essential for maintaining skin barrier integrity and cellular function.
- The study 1 discusses the safety of very low LDL-C levels and the potential side effects of lipid-lowering agents, but does not provide direct evidence for the use of mevalonic acid in supporting skin longevity and function.
- Ingredients that support the mevalonic acid pathway, such as niacinamide (vitamin B3), may be beneficial for skin health, but the direct impact of mevalonic acid on skin longevity and function is not supported by the provided evidence.
- Further research is needed to investigate the potential benefits of mevalonic acid in supporting skin health and longevity. In real-life clinical practice, it is essential to prioritize evidence-based recommendations and exercise caution when considering the use of mevalonic acid or any other ingredient for skin health benefits.
From the Research
Mevalonic Acid and Skin Longevity
- Mevalonic acid has been shown to stimulate de novo cholesterol synthesis and epidermal permeability barrier homeostasis in aged mice, suggesting its potential in supporting skin longevity and function 2.
- Topical application of mevalonic acid enhanced barrier recovery in aged mice, accompanied by acceleration of cholesterol synthesis and stimulation of the whole cholesterol biosynthesis 2.
- Mevalonolactone, a derivative of mevalonic acid, has been found to improve epidermal barrier function in dry skin by promoting ABCA12 expression and fatty acid transport to lamellar granules 3.
Role of Mevalonic Acid in Cell Metabolism
- Mevalonic acid plays a crucial role in cell metabolism and multiplication, with its derivatives being essential for cell growth and proliferation 4.
- The enzyme 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA reductase, which catalyzes the conversion of HMGCoA to mevalonic acid, is a key regulator of cholesterol biosynthesis and cell growth 4.
- Mevalonic acid has been shown to be involved in the modulation of cell osmolarity, pinocytosis, and membrane-associated protein activities 4.
Mevalonic Acid and Cholesterol Synthesis
- Mevalonic acid is a precursor of cholesterol, and its synthesis is essential for cell growth and proliferation 5, 6.
- The rate of cholesterol synthesis, as indicated by plasma mevalonic acid levels, can be used to predict responsiveness to HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors in patients with familial hypercholesterolaemia 5.
- Mevalonic acid has a dual role in the cell cycle, with its cholesterol precursor role being required in the early and mid-G1 phases, and its effect on S phase DNA synthesis being required at the late G1-S interphase 6.