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Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology

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A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Outcomes of Antioxidants and Oxidative Stress".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 October 2026 | Viewed by 29432

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Prof. Dr. Corina Danciu

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Department of Pharmacognosy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, Eftimie Murgu Square, No. 2, 300041 Timişoara, Romania
Interests: phytochemical characterization; extraction, isolation and characterization of pure bioactive compounds from plants extracts; assessment of the biological activity of plant extracts/pure active phytochemicals; in vitro, in vivo evaluations; clinical trials
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Dear Colleagues,

To date, a significant number of pharmaceuticals and dermatocosmetic products have natural compounds as their main active ingredients, available in various forms of extracts (standardized or not) or as pure phytochemicals. Furthermore, there is growing use of these products among the population. The connection between the antioxidant activity of natural compounds and their multitude of beneficial effects for health and dermatocosmetology is strongly validated and substantiated.

The aim of this Special Issue is to present the latest findings on natural antioxidants that can be used in the pharmaceutical and dermatocosmetic fields. Submissions should include studies on active phytochemicals, whether in their pure form or as standardized extracts, that show positive results in managing acute and/or chronic pathologies. Additionally, natural antioxidant molecules that benefit the skin and hair, from both medical and esthetic perspectives, should be reported. The potential interactions of natural antioxidant compounds with synthetic molecules, whether they potentiate or inhibit their effects, should be detailed. Furthermore, the underlying mechanisms of antioxidant effects and biological activities should be thoroughly explored.

We welcome experimental and clinical research papers, as well as in-depth reviews, for this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Corina Danciu
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Antioxidants is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

phytochemicals
antioxidant
pharmaceuticals
dermatocosmetic products
in vitro and in vivo evaluations
clinical trials

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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Research

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26 pages, 12365 KB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Arnica montana and Ruscus aculeatus Hyaluronic Acid-Modified Nanostructured Lipid Carriers for Accelerated Wound Healing Effect

by Ioana Lăcătusu, Robert Tincu, Mihaela Bacalum, Diana Lavinia Stan, Ovidiu Cristian Oprea, Mihaela Neagu, Justinian Andrei Tomescu and Nicoleta Badea

Antioxidants 2026, 15(5), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15050594 - 8 May 2026

Viewed by 349

Abstract

Skin wound healing involves a delicate balance between proliferation and remodelling processes, with significant therapeutic challenges. The present work aimed to investigate the capacity of hybrid lipid nanocarriers carrying a complex phytochemical profile (HA-NLC-ArnicaM and/or RuscusA extracts) to counteract the destructive action of oxidative free radicals and to accelerate wound closure induced on BJ fibroblast cells. The lipid and hybrid nanocarriers have main diameters ranging from 145 nm to 180 nm, electrokinetic potential between −45 mV and −62 mV, and entrapment efficiency of plant extracts exceeding 96%. HA-NLC-plant extracts exhibit an appropriate level of biocompatibility at concentrations < 50 µg/mL. ArnicaM wins the antioxidant contest while RuscusA proved excellent for accelerating the wound closure process. NLCs and HA-NLCs entrapping ArnicaM manifested the highest capacity to neutralise DPPH free radicals, reaching 79.4% inhibition. BJ fibroblast cells treated with HA-NLCs closed the wound more rapidly than NLCs, with cells reaching maximum wound closure efficiency when treated with 12.5 and 100 µg/mL HA-NLC-RuscusA, followed by HA-NLC-ArnicaM-RuscusA. These results facilitate the design of remarkable hybrid lipid nanocarriers, which exploit the emergence of a pharmacological phytochemical’s synergy, and which could contribute to stimulating signalling pathways and promoting appropriate cellular regeneration, needed for wound healing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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23 pages, 2788 KB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant, Anti-Cholinesterase, and Neuroprotective Properties of Morus alba and Morus nigra Extracts

by Emanuela Nani Pohrib, Andreia Corciova, Oana Cioanca, Lucian Hritcu, Monica Hancianu, Andreea-Maria Mitran, Ana Flavia Burlec, Alexandra-Mara Cimpanu, Crina-Maria Isac, Riana Huzum, Ecaterina Danu and Cornelia Mircea

Antioxidants 2026, 15(4), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15040510 - 20 Apr 2026

Viewed by 396

Abstract

The Morus genus comprises several tree species whose fruits are used in human nutrition, while the leaves and roots are used in traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to highlight the antioxidant, cholinesterase inhibitory, and neuroprotective effects of hydroalcoholic extracts from Morus alba (MAE) and Morus nigra (MNE) leaves. RP-UHPLC-PDA analysis of extracts revealed the presence of polyphenols in higher quantities in MNE extract compared to MAE. Both extracts demonstrated antioxidant properties in the hydroxyl radical scavenging and lipid peroxidation inhibition assays. MNE exhibited a superior antioxidant capacity compared to MAE; the IC₅₀ values for the inhibition of plasma lipid oxidation assay were 25.31 ± 2.54 µg/mL for MNE and 29.85 ± 0.97 µg/mL for MAE. Both extracts showed cholinesterase inhibitory activity. The IC₅₀ values for acetylcholinesterase inhibition were 24.34 ± 0.86 µg/mL for MNE and 46.87 ± 2.16 µg/mL for MAE. The inhibitory potency of MNE was comparable to that of galantamine, which was used as standard. Both extracts reversed, in a dose-dependent manner, the scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment and behavioural alterations in scopolamine-treated zebrafish (Danio rerio) as evaluated by the Y-maze test, novel tank diving test, and novel object recognition test. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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28 pages, 3104 KB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Assessment of Geranium robertianum L. Ethanolic Extract on Human Salivary Gland Carcinoma Cells

by Adina Feher, Adina Căta, Diana Haj Ali, Larisa Bora, Ioana Zinuca Magyari-Pavel, Ana-Maria Vlase, Ștefana Avram, Laurian Vlase, Diana Ungureanu (Similie), Ștefania Dinu, Daliana Minda, Cristina Adriana Dehelean, Mukerrem Betul Yerer, Corina Danciu and Ramona Amina Popovici

Antioxidants 2026, 15(3), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15030296 - 27 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1556

Abstract

Geranium robertianum L. is used in traditional medicine to treat different systemic disorders and holds great therapeutic potential but remains understudied. To this aim, an ethanolic extract obtained from the aerial parts of G. robertianum L. (GR) was investigated in terms of phytochemical composition and biological activity. GR extract exhibited high levels of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The antioxidant activity was determined by means of three different colorimetric assays (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP), and the results obtained indicate that the ABTS assay showed the highest antioxidant capacity. Metal analysis was also performed. Fe was found to be the most abundant element in the analyzed extract, with a concentration of 363.65 ± 4.18 μg/g, followed by Zn, Mn, Ni, and Cr. Four potentially hazardous heavy metals, As, Co, Pb, and Cd, were found to be under the detection limit. The GR extract exhibited moderate antibacterial activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with inhibition zones generally comparable to those of levofloxacin. However, the extract was significantly less effective against the P. aeruginosa strain. On A253 human salivary gland carcinoma cells, GR extract elicited a dose-dependent antiproliferative effect, produced morphological changes, and increased ROS and both caspase-3/7 and caspase-9 levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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30 pages, 2872 KB

Open AccessArticle

Formulation and Biological Evaluation of Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Methanolic Extract: An Exploratory Study in the Context of Rosacea

by Iulia Semenescu, Larisa Bora, Adina Octavia Dușe, Claudia Geanina Watz, Ștefana Avram, Szilvia Berkó, Gheorghe Emilian Olteanu, Adina Căta, Zorița Diaconeasa, Daliana Ionela Minda, Cristina Adriana Dehelean, Delia Muntean and Corina Danciu

Antioxidants 2026, 15(2), 158; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15020158 - 23 Jan 2026

Viewed by 1359

Abstract

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder characterized by oxidative stress, innate immune dysregulation, vascular instability, and microbiome-related triggers. Glycyrrhiza glabra (Gg, licorice) root contains phenolics and triterpenoids with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic properties that may benefit rosacea-prone skin. Xanthan-gum hydrogels containing 2% methanolic Gg extract (S1, S2) were prepared and characterized. Rheology, in vitro release, and in vitro permeation were evaluated, with the aim of assessing their suitability as topical formulations for rosacea-prone skin. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Antimicrobial effects were tested against S. pyogenes, S. aureus, and C. acnes. Safety and bioactivity were examined through HaCaT keratinocyte assays (MTT, Neutral Red, LDH), the HET-CAM irritation test, and the CAM angiogenesis assay. Immunocytochemistry was performed on rosacea-related inflammatory markers. Both hydrogels showed suitable rheology, sustained release, and preserved strong antioxidant activity. Moderate antimicrobial effects were observed, particularly against S. pyogenes and C. acnes. HaCaT cell viability remained above 84% for the S2 formulation at the highest concentration (200 µg/mL), indicating improved cytocompatibility compared with formulation S1. The hydrogels were non-irritant in the HET-CAM model and reduced neovascularization in the CAM assay, with a more sustained effect observed for formulation S2. Immunohistochemistry supported potential modulation of inflammatory pathways relevant to rosacea, evidencing suppressed VEGF expression and preserved CD44-mediated integrity, particularly in the Labrasol-based formulation (S2), while Caspase-3 staining indicated a controlled apoptotic profile. Overall, Gg hydrogels are safe, biocompatible, non-irritant, and exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-angiogenic activities, supporting their potential as biocompatible topical formulations with antioxidant and pathway-modulating properties relevant to the biological features associated with rosacea, while underscoring the importance of formulation design. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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21 pages, 3534 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chamazulene Induces Metabolic Reprogramming and Mitigates Inflammation in Photoaged Skin: PPARα/γ as Potential Regulators

by Ying Zhou, Wencui Wang, Lei He, Nan Zhang, Bowen Zhou, Zimeng Chen, Li Ma and Lei Yao

Antioxidants 2025, 14(11), 1320; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14111320 - 31 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1586

Abstract

Chamazulene (CHA) is a brilliant blue compound present in Artemisia sieversiana Ehrhart ex Willd. essential oil (AEO). We have previously reported that both CHA and AEO can shield the skin from UVB damage, exhibiting significant anti-photoaging effects. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying CHA’s photoprotective properties are still unclear. Herein, we integrated transcriptomics, targeted fatty acid profile, and untargeted metabolomics analyses on the dorsal skin of mice exposed to UVB with or without 0.4% CHA topical treatment. The results showed that CHA upregulated key genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, including two peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) subtypes, i.e., PPARα and PPARγ, in mouse skin. The CHA treatment elevated levels of various saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids, and it especially restored n-3/n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid homeostasis and downregulated the p38 MAPK/COX-2 pathway. Additionally, CHA enhanced skin non-essential amino acid metabolism, likely via PPARα. In conclusion, our study indicates that CHA may mitigate UVB-induced photoaging by inducing metabolic reprogramming and suppressing inflammation, and the findings suggest that the activation of PPARα/γ may play a vital role in these observed effects, thereby establishing CHA as a promising topical agent against UVB-induced photoaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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34 pages, 4688 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimized Sambucus nigra L., Epilobium hirsutum L., and Lythrum salicaria L. Extracts: Biological Effects Supporting Their Potential in Wound Care

by Diana Antonia Safta, Ana-Maria Vlase, Anca Pop, Julien Cherfan, Rahela Carpa, Sonia Iurian, Cătălina Bogdan, Laurian Vlase and Mirela-Liliana Moldovan

Antioxidants 2025, 14(5), 521; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14050521 - 27 Apr 2025

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2249

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize the extraction of phytocompounds intended for wound care applications from three plant species, Sambucus nigra L. flowers and Epilobium hirsutum L. and Lythrum salicaria L. aerial parts, by using a Quality by Design approach. The effects of different extraction methods (ultra-turrax and ultrasonic-assisted extraction), ethanol concentrations (30%, 50%, 70%), and extraction times (3, 5, 10 min) were studied, and during the optimization step, the polyphenol and flavonoid contents were maximized. The phytochemical profiles of the optimized HEs (herbal extracts) were assessed using LC-MS/MS methods. The antioxidant capacity of the optimized HEs was determined using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity) TEAC (Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity), and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assays, while the antibacterial activity was evaluated against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and MSSA—methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA—methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus). Cell viability and antioxidant and wound healing potential were assessed on keratinocytes and fibroblasts. The anti-inflammatory effect was assessed on fibroblasts by measuring levels of interleukins IL-6 and IL-8 and the production of nitric oxide from RAW 264.7 cells. The major compounds of the optimized HEs were rutin and chlorogenic acid. The Lythrum salicaria optimized HE showed the strongest antibacterial activity, while the Sambucus nigra optimized HE demonstrated high cell viability. Lythrum salicaria and Epilobium hirsutum optimized HEs showed increased antioxidant capacities. All extracts displayed anti-inflammatory effects, and the Epilobium hirsutum optimized HE exhibited the best in vitro wound-healing effect. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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Review

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67 pages, 5184 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances on the Analysis and Biological Functions of Cinnamaldehyde and Its Derivatives

by Roghayeh Karimirad, Baskaran Stephen Inbaraj and Bing-Huei Chen

Antioxidants 2025, 14(7), 765; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14070765 - 22 Jun 2025

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 7964

Abstract

Natural antioxidants isolated from fruits, vegetables, herbs and spices have drawn great attention owing to their numerous health-promoting effects. Cinnamaldehyde (CA), an abundant antioxidant in cinnamon spice, has been explored more intensely over the last decade as it has been demonstrated to be effective and safe in the treatment of various diseases. Structurally, a substituted aldehyde group with an unsaturated carbon–carbon double bond with two electrophilic sites for reaction with receptors and enzymes can exert diverse biological effects. Although cinnamon has been traditionally used as a spice and herbal remedy, many studies investigating the most dominant functional compound, CA, and its biological activities have been reported in recent years. This review article intends to present an overview of recent advances in analytical methods and the application of cinnamon extract/oil, CA and its derivatives, CA-polymer/biomolecule conjugates and CA micro/nanosystems in alleviating various chronic diseases including cancer, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the improved pharmacological efficiency of CA and its derivatives as well as their polymer/drug/biomolecule conjugates and micro/nanoencapsulated forms, suggesting a possible alternative natural therapy and adjuvant therapy with conventional drugs via a synergistic process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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23 pages, 995 KB

Open AccessReview

Exploring Oxidative Stress Mechanisms of Nanoparticles Using Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Toxicological and Pharmaceutical Insights

by Denisa Batir-Marin, Monica Boev, Oana Cioanca, Ionut-Iulian Lungu, George-Alexandru Marin, Ana Flavia Burlec, Andreea-Maria Mitran, Cornelia Mircea and Monica Hancianu

Antioxidants 2025, 14(4), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14040489 - 18 Apr 2025

Cited by 41 | Viewed by 5359

Abstract

Nanoparticles (NPs) have revolutionized biomedical and pharmaceutical applications due to their unique physicochemical properties. However, their widespread use has raised concerns regarding their potential toxicity, particularly mediated by oxidative stress mechanisms. This redox imbalance, primarily driven by the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS), plays a central role in NP-induced toxicity, leading to cellular dysfunction, inflammation, apoptosis, and genotoxicity. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) have emerged as a powerful in vivo model for nanotoxicology, offering advantages such as genetic similarity to humans, rapid development, and optical transparency, allowing real-time monitoring of oxidative damage. This review synthesizes current findings on NP-induced oxidative stress in zebrafish, highlighting key toxicity mechanisms and case studies involving metallic (gold, silver, copper), metal oxide (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide), polymeric, and lipid-based NPs. The influence of NP physicochemical properties, such as size, surface charge, and functionalization, on oxidative stress responses is explored. Additionally, experimental approaches used to assess ROS generation, antioxidant enzyme activity, and oxidative damage biomarkers in zebrafish models are examined. In addition to toxicity concerns, pharmaceutical applications of antioxidant-modified NPs are evaluated, particularly their potential in drug delivery, neuroprotection, and disease therapeutics. Notably, studies show that curcumin- and quercetin-loaded nanoparticles enhance antioxidant defense and reduce neurotoxicity in zebrafish models, demonstrating their promise in neuroprotective therapies. Furthermore, cerium oxide nanoparticles, which mimic catalase and SOD enzymatic activity, have shown significant efficacy in reducing ROS and protecting against oxidative damage. Challenges in zebrafish-based nanotoxicology, the need for standardized methodologies, and future directions for optimizing NP design to minimize oxidative stress-related risks are also discussed. By integrating insights from toxicity mechanisms, case studies, and pharmaceutical strategies, this review supports the development of safer and more effective nanoparticle-based therapies while addressing the challenges of oxidative stress-related toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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34 pages, 17924 KB

Open AccessReview

Natural Compounds with Beneficial Effects on Skin Collagen Type I and Mechanisms of Their Action

by Wioleta Żynda, Agnieszka Ruczaj and Anna Galicka

Antioxidants 2025, 14(4), 389; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox14040389 - 26 Mar 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7488

Abstract

The skin, as the largest external organ, is exposed to many environmental factors, such as sunlight and pollution, as well as some synthetic ingredients in cosmetic products used in excess by most people of all ages throughout their lives. Under the influence of these factors and with age, the amount of the key building protein, collagen type I, decreases, which leads to a deterioration in the appearance and condition of the skin. Currently, when the average life expectancy increases, the esthetic aspect and maintaining healthy skin are particularly important. In the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries, attempts have long been made to prevent skin aging by the application of products containing natural compounds, mainly due to their high antioxidant activity. This review collects natural compounds, mainly polyphenols, with stimulating and protective effects on collagen type I in human skin fibroblasts, along with a description of the mechanisms of their action. Some of them have been tested on mice and rats, as well as in clinical trials, and in most cases, the results have been very promising. Nevertheless, there is still a need for an intensification of clinical studies in order to determine their appropriate dosage, safety, and effectiveness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Antioxidants in Pharmaceuticals and Dermatocosmetology)

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