The scientists say that the age-related enzyme, NOX (arNOX), is linked to skin damage such as decreased elasticity and discolouration that can be contributing factors to more wrinkles and a less youthful complexion.
The latest discovery is the most up to date findings to come from ongoing research conducted between the company and the Purdue University relating to this enzyme and its effect on skin ageing.
The study measured arNOX activity and autofluorescence in epidermis and dermis biopsies, and compared it to the age of a sample subject.
The scientists found that arNOX activity increased with the age of the skin and that it correlated directly with the skin’s autofluorescence - a means of measuring collagen and elastin levels.
Previous studies from 2008 and 2003 had concluded that superoxide free radicals are generated by arNox.
The research results were presented at the 9th Asian Scientific Conference of the Asian Societies of Cosmetic Scientists in Yohohama, Japan, earlier this month.
"We know that arNOX, which is an internal source of ageing, generates damaging superoxide free radicals at a rate that accelerates as we age," said Joe Chang, chief scientific officer at Nu Skin.
"This latest research correlates arNOX activity with an increase in cross links in the skin, leading us to the conclusion that arNOX is indeed a contributor to the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which contributes to the appearance of lines and wrinkles and other signs of aging skin."
The researchers say that the latest finding on internal contributors to skin ageing is helping to develop novel new technologies for cosmeceutical products, and is likely to trigger future launches incorporating technologies developed as a result of these findings.