Non-2-enal is an unsaturated aldehyde. It is a colorless liquid largely responsible for the flavor of aged beer and buckwheat. The characterization of this substance in the skin of elderly people will lead to the concept of “Aging Odor“. Back to this question.
The smell of this substance is perceived as a mixture of iris, fat and cucumber. This smell is known in Japan as “Kareishu”. A research team showed by the end of the 90’s its presence in the sweat of elderly people. The concept of “Aging odor” was born. This substance is produced during the process of degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acids by microorganisms present on the surface of the skin. It is present in both men and women over the age of 40. Its production is accompanied by the reduction of lactones having a compensating effect. The consequence is a much more marked smell. NONENAL 1
Commercial specialties with this effect have been proposed mainly in Japan. The functional ingredients are antioxidants coupled with substances significantly different from the classic ingredients: IPMP for Isopropyl methylphenon and sometimes in combination with trehalose.Nonenal2
The form is mainly in the spray, but also in the form of soaps. This concept has not been taken up in other countries.
Some suppliers provided solution.
It should be noted that this effect has also been noted in skin aging phenomena, which may eventually lead to their use in face care products such as Shiseido did with the Ginza line.Nonenal3
Thanks to Florence Bernardin for the information.
Jean-Claude LE JOLIFF
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