Dear Janelle:

Macrophage cells, known in skin as Langerhans cells, help maintain the integrity of the skin, which is constantly in need of damage repair from exposure to the sun, injury, foreign challenges, chemicals and pollutants. With aging, the immune system's ability to respond to the new challenges declines, and unfortunately, our skin often shows it.

As part of the immune system, Langerhans cells not only devour bad cells and negative invaders, they also release substances, such as epidermal growth factor, that encourage skin renewal and healing. On the surface of these Langerhans cells, researchers have found receptor sites ready to accept beta-1, 3-glucan, which then stimulates non-specific immunity against bacteria, fungi, viruses, tumor cells and foreign debris harmful to the skin. The more stimulation of the immune response, the more protection for the skin against harmful environmental pollutants, harsh chemicals, detergents, perfumes, UV radiation, and small wounds, and the greater the ability of the skin to heal itself and reduce visible signs of aging like wrinkles.

While most beta glucan cosmeceuticals on the market today are only 15% to 60% beta glucan, Women's Health America has chosen Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan (as WGP 3-6 B-Glucan, a highly purified pharmaceutical-grade beta glucan) for products promoting optimal skin health. Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan is a key ingredient in our DermaFex^™ Daily Renewal Facial Moisturizer, Wrinkle Repair Night Moisturizer and Instant Face Lift. It's bacteria fighting, wound healing, sun-protecting, immune boosting ability also makes this beta glucan one of the most powerful ingredients in our DermaFex^™ Acne Gel.