## 4 Discussion  
The identification of the compounds in _K. elatine_ cell culture has been performed using UPLC/HRMS-MS previously. Major compound classes identified were amino acids and derivatives (such as ferulic and p-coumaric acid), benzoic acids (e.g., protocatechuic acid), phenolic glycosides, hydroxycinnamic acids, linoleic acids, peptides, and fatty acids. Several phenylpropanoids were also identified, including echinacoside, lavandulfioloside, isoacetoside, and, notably, acetoside [24]. Acteoside, syn. Verbascoside is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic, and photoprotective activities [54,55]. [PERSON] et al. (2011) suggested that acetoside and its derivatives could retain their antioxidant activity in a water-free formula, making it a potential cosmeceutical product [54]. Phenolic glycosides and tyrosol derivatives, including salidroside, were also present, suggesting possible moisturising and soothing effects beneficial for skincare applications [47,48]. The results from this study indicate that the cell extract of _Kickxia elatine_ significantly enhances skin hydration and decreases transepidermal water loss, which suggest its moisturising and protective potential. Additionally, the extract may exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by stabilising erythema levels and may play a role in maintaining a balanced skin pH, which is crucial for barrier function. These promising effects support the potential of _K. elatine_ as an active ingredient in future dermocosmic formulations, particularly for skin types that are mature, dry, or sensitive. The cream containing _Kickxia elatine_ cell extract produced notable improvements in skin structure, vascular condition, and pigmentation, with statistically significant differences compared to the placebo. Although wrinkle depth remained relatively stable in both groups, the _K. elatine_ group showed less deterioration, hinting at a mild anti-ageing effect. These findings support the potential of _K. elatine_ as a valuable ingredient in functional skincare, particularly for improving texture, tone, and visible vascular concerns. The present study demonstrated that the topical application of a facial cream containing _Kickxia elatine_ cell suspension culture extract elicited favourable changes in multiple biophysical parameters of the skin. These outcomes align with a growing body of literature supporting the efficacy of botanical and cell culture-derived extracts in cosmetic dermatology. The current body of literature increasingly confirms that plant extracts--particularly those derived from calli and cell suspension cultures--have a measurable and beneficial impact on facial skin biophysical properties. Hydration of the stratum corneum is among the most commonly assessed parameters. Multiple studies have reported statistically significant increases in skin moisture after applying plant-based formulations. For example, the study by [PERSON] (2017) demonstrated that a formulation containing _Centella asatica_ extract, glycerine, and hyaluronic acid significantly improved skin hydration within 24 h and reduced TEWL by over 48%, indicating the enhancement of the skin's barrier function [71]. Similarly, the application of _Calendula officinalis_ extract over eight weeks resulted in statistically significant increases in skin moisture, while TEWL decreased modestly, though not significantly [72]. The erythema and melanin indices, typically assessed by Mexameter, were also modulated in several interventions. For instance, _Calendula officinalis_