Development of Bacillus stratosphericus Lysate Concentrate to Control Sebum Secretion through In vitro Studies and Clinical Trial

Abstract The sebum on human skin is generated for various causes. The composition of the formed sebum increases the proliferation of Cutibacterium acnes ( C. acnes ) residing on the skin. As C. acnes proliferates, it produces skin irritants that stimulate the sebaceous glands, increasing sebum production. Skin troubles such as acne may occur. The lysate concentrates of Bacillus stratosphericus ( B. stratosphericus ), first discovered in the stratosphere, confirmed a 66.35% inhibition of Nitric Oxide (NO) production at 0.50 mg/ml concentration in vitro. Additionally, the growth inhibition efficacy of B. stratosphericus lysate concentrate (BSLC) against C. acnes was confirmed, showing a 95.1% inhibition of growth proliferation at a consistency of 0.50 mg/ml. Based on the in vitro results, the efficacy of BSLC in degrading and reducing sebum was confirmed by reacting it with artificial sebum to various concentrations. The results showed a concentration-dependent decrease in artificial sebum ccording to the efficacy results confirmed in vitro, a clinical trial was conducted to evaluate the daily sebum reduction efficacy of a serum formulation containing 50 mg/ml of BSLC. After a 4-week application, the test group containing BSLC determined a significant 28.68% reduction in sebum levels, demonstrating the practical implications of the research. In conclusion, BSLC is considered to have sufficient industrial value as a valuable ingredient for the cosmetics industry aimed at sebum improvement.