Beta-Hydroxy-Beta-Methyl Butyrate (HMB) and 2-Hydroxy-Benzyl Amine (2-HOBA) for Treatment of Inflammatory Skin Conditions

Lauren Evans, Diane Kim, Hrayr K. Shahinian, Naji N. Abumrad, Christina Kim

Abstract: Background: β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB) and 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA) represent promising natural compounds for addressing inflammatory skin conditions through complementary mechanisms. HMB, a leucine metabolite, enhances protein synthesis and collagen integrity via mTOR pathway activation, while 2-HOBA functions as a potent electrophile scavenger that reduces oxidative stress and inflammatory damage. This study evaluated the clinical efficacy of topical HMB and 2-HOBA formulations in ameliorating various inflammatory skin conditions. Methods: Nine female participants (ages 27-43) with diverse skin conditions including acne vulgaris, rosacea, and sunburn damage were treated with three topical formulations: HMB Rescue Mask (2% HMB), 2-HOBA Refresh Cream (0.2% 2-HOBA), or 2-HOBA Repair Balm (0.2% 2-HOBA with Nicotiana benthamiana Polypeptide Complex). Treatment duration ranged from 5-30 days depending on condition severity. Clinical improvements were documented through standardized photography and visual assessment. Results: Photographic documentation demonstrated significant improvements across all treated conditions. Key findings included: reduction in inflammatory acne lesions with improved skin texture, decreased post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, complete resolution of compromised skin barriers, enhanced skin brightness and hydration, visible reduction in acne scarring appearance, improved overall skin tone uniformity, resolution of cystic acne without scarring, and successful sunburn recovery without skin damage. Participants with rosacea showed marked reduction in erythema and improved skin hydration. No adverse effects were reported during the treatment periods. Conclusions: Topical application of HMB and 2-HOBA demonstrated promising therapeutic potential for inflammatory skin conditions through their complementary mechanisms addressing both structural protein synthesis and oxidative stress reduction. The observed clinical improvements support the hypothesis that targeting both immune dysfunction and structural deterioration can effectively treat various dermatological conditions. However, these preliminary findings require validation through randomized controlled trials with objective biomarker assessments, diverse demographic populations, and standardized outcome measures to establish optimal therapeutic protocols and confirm long-term safety and efficacy.

Keywords: β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate (HMB), 2-hydroxybenzylamine (2-HOBA), skin health, oxidative stress, collagen synthesis, inflammation, acne treatment, rosacea, antioxidant intervention, protein synthesis