Oosato Institute Finds Fermented Papaya Boosts Skin Collagen and Hydration

The Oosato Institute in Gifu Prefecture, Japan, together with researchers from the University of Catania in Italy, reported that a fermented papaya preparation (FPP) can suppress UV‑induced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression and stimulate collagen production in skin cells. In vitro tests on human dermal fibroblasts showed reduced MMP‑1, MMP‑3 and MMP‑9 gene levels when FPP was added after UVB exposure, while collagen synthesis increased.

A pilot clinical trial involving 26 women aged 42 to 56 confirmed these cellular findings. Participants took 9 g of FPP daily for three months. Compared with placebo, the FPP group exhibited measurable improvements in skin elasticity, stratum corneum moisture, transepidermal water loss, surface glow and microcirculation. The full results were published in the international journal Bioactive Molecules and Pharmaceuticals (2026; 3(6): 71‑84). The study suggests that oral intake of FPP may serve as an inner‑care strategy to counteract skin aging caused by environmental stressors such as ultraviolet radiation.