Peer-reviewed research reveals new skin health benefits for the super-antioxidant, including significant skin smoothness and cellulite reduction
GENEVA, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new double-blind, placebo-controlled study reveals that daily supplementation with Pycnogenol®French maritime pine bark extract, reduces the severity of cellulite—a very common skin condition, more prevalent in women, associated with skin structure and vascular changes under the skin. The research found that women taking Pycnogenol® showed measurable improvements in cellulite after 60 and 90 days. Additionally, the study found that oral intake of Pycnogenol® reduced upper thigh circumference, reduced skin roughness and improved skin smoothness.
Posted on Phytomedicine Plusthe study evaluated 60 women aged 25 to 45 over three months, with cellulite status and response measured at baseline, 4 weeks, 8 weeks and 12 weeks. Thirty (30) women received 150 mg of Pycnogenol® per day (50 mg in the morning and 100 mg in the evening), while thirty (30) women received placebo. Key findings include:
Reducing the severity of cellulite
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After 2 months of supplementation, the researchers observed a 12.2% reduction in the severity of cellulite.
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By the end of the 12-week trial, participants in Pycnogenol® The group showed a total decrease of 13.6%.
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These outcomes were measured using the Hexsel Cellulitis Severity Scale, a clinically validated assessment tool that assesses five key morphologic features of cellulitis—such as skin surface changes and depressions. A 13.6% reduction on this scale represents a clinically significant improvement.
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The reduction in cellulitis severity was not significant in the placebo group, but was significantly reduced in Pycnogenol® group.
Reduction in the upper circumference of the thigh
Reduction of skin roughness
Increase in skin smoothness
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Participants in the Pycnogenol® group experienced an 11.19% improvement in skin smoothness after 3 months.
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The placebo group showed only a 6.82% overall improvement.
“Cellulite is incredibly common—it affects up to 90% of women—and while it’s often seen as frustrating, it doesn’t have to be self-defeating,” says author and celebrity naturopathic doctor Dr. Fred Pescatore. “Women today are looking for natural, effective ways to support skin health. Pycnogenol® is a clinically supported ingredient with multiple skin benefits, including its ability to visibly improve cellulite. This is exciting for anyone looking to simplify their beauty routine and feel better about their skin.”
