Search Results (1,070)

Peptides are widely used in cosmetic formulations to stimulate extracellular matrix (ECM) synthesis, while silybin (a flavonolignan from Silybum marianum) offers retinol-like benefits through antioxidant and photoprotective activity. This study evaluated a novel anti-aging cream combining seven bioactive peptides with silybin to assess synergistic effects on ECM regeneration and clinical skin rejuvenation. In vitro assays in human dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes revealed that the formulation rapidly upregulated gene and protein expression of collagen types I, III, IV, and XVII and lysyl oxidase (LOX) within 4–16 h. Ex-vivo, ultraviolet (UV)-damaged skin explants treated with the peptide–silybin complex showed enhanced recovery of collagen, elastic fibers, and LOX versus untreated controls. A 56-day clinical study (n = 31) demonstrated significant improvements in wrinkle area and volume, elasticity (+12.5%), firmness (+20.7%), and dermal density (+78%, all p < 0.001). No adverse effects were reported, and over 80% of participants noted improved skin texture and firmness. These findings highlight a novel synergy between peptides and silybin, with rapid ECM activation and clinical efficacy. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence of a cosmetic peptide formulation significantly upregulating LOX expression, suggesting a new mechanism for strengthening dermal architecture and improving skin resilience. Future studies should elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects and assess whether other botanicals confer complementary benefits when combined with peptide blends. Full article

Background: currently, there is a growing trend toward multifunctional cosmetics, which combine several active ingredients in a single product to enhance efficacy and user convenience. As ingredients may influence one another, it is important to study the behavior of mixing multiple compounds in complex formulations, especially regarding their interaction with the skin. Piceatannol, for instance, is a naturally occurring stilbene recognized for its in vitro potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging activities, making it a promising candidate for dermocosmetic use in suncare. But despite its beneficial biological activities, its cutaneous permeation remains poorly understood, particularly when delivered from complex formulations containing multiple ingredients. Objectives: in this sense, this study aimed to evaluate the in vitro skin diffusion profile of piceatannol from a passion fruit seed extract (P_ext) incorporated into a topical base (B_em) or an organic sunscreen emulsion (O_em), with or without a spilanthol-rich Acmella oleracea extract (J_ext) used as a natural permeation enhancer. Methods: due to ethical and variability issues with human and animal skins, the Strat-M™ synthetic membrane was chosen as a standardized model for the in vitro skin permeation assays. Piceatannol localization within membrane layers was examined by confocal Raman microscopy (CRM), while compound identification in donor and receptor compartments was performed via UHPLC-DAD. Results: piceatannol from B_em was detected up to 140 µm from the Strat-M™ surface and exceeded 180 µm in depth when J_ext and organic sunscreens were included in the formulation. Notably, formulations containing J_ext and those based on O_em promoted enhanced accumulation in both the stratum corneum and deeper skin layers, suggesting an improved delivery potential in lipid-rich vehicles. Conclusions: even though some instability issues were observed, piceatannol penetration into Strat-M™ from the proposed formulations was confirmed, and the results provide a foundation for further research on its topical delivery, supporting the rational development of formulations capable of harnessing its demonstrated biological properties. Full article

Dendrobium officinale (Orchidaceae) is a commonly used medicinal and edible herb. Although its anti-ageing properties have been demonstrated, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. We employed network pharmacology and molecular biology techniques to systematically explore its anti-ageing mechanisms. An ageing model was established using D-galactose-induced Kunming mice. D. officinale significantly ameliorated ageing-related symptoms, including behavioural impairment and organ index reduction. It enhanced antioxidant capacity by increasing serum T-AOC levels and restoring renal activities of key antioxidant enzymes (SOD, GSH-Px, CAT) while reducing MDA; it suppressed serum TNF-α levels, indicating anti-inflammatory effects. Histopathological examination revealed that D. officinale alleviated D-galactose-induced renal damage, including tubular cell swelling and glomerular capsule widening. Network pharmacology identified 8 core active compounds (e.g., 5,7-dihydroxyflavone, naringenin) and 10 key targets (e.g., HSP90AA1, EGFR, MAPK3). KEGG analysis highlighted pathways including neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, cAMP signalling, and calcium signalling. Molecular docking confirmed strong binding affinities between core compounds and key targets. Western blotting and immunohistochemistry validated that D. officinale upregulated EGFR, HSP90AA1, ERK, and GAPDH expression in renal tissues. In summary, D. officinale exerts anti-ageing effects by modulating oxidative stress, suppressing inflammation, and regulating multiple signalling pathways. Our findings provide a scientific rationale for its application in anti-ageing interventions. Full article

The global increase in life expectancy underscores the need to promote healthy aging, particularly by addressing age-related leaky gut syndrome, which contributes to systemic inflammation and chronic disease. This study focused on the sustainable production and functional development of Ulva meridionalis, a fast-growing seaweed, to improve gut health and mitigate the effects of aging. Using land-based aquaculture, a scalable cultivation system for U. meridionalis was established, and its polysaccharide, ulvan, was extracted. Ion exchange treatment enhanced the functionality of ulvan to produce ulvan-Na, which contains high levels of Na⁺ and conveys superior anti-aging properties. Ulvan-Na restored intestinal barrier integrity in aged mice by reducing serum LPS levels and increasing claudin-1 expression. Ulvan-Na modulated the gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria such as Clostridiales vadin BB60 and suppressing inflammatory bacteria such as Turicibacter. The mechanism was clarified whereby ulvan-Na activates β-catenin to enhance claudin-1 expression. These findings highlight ulvan-Na as a bioactive compound that ameliorates age-related intestinal dysfunction while demonstrating the feasibility of sustainable U. meridionalis production for functional food innovation and environmental conservation. Full article

Background/Objectives: Enhancement of cellular NAD⁺ mediated by NMN has emerged as a pivotal strategy in modulating the aging process. This study aimed to systematically investigate the anti-aging effects of NMN on human skin fibroblasts, focusing on how the former contributes to the improvement of cellular health and function. This study elucidated the molecular and functional mechanisms by which NMN contributes to the attenuation of skin aging. Methods: We performed extensive in vitro and transcriptomic analyses. Human skin fibroblasts were treated with NMN, and the induced biological responses were observed under oxidative stress/photo-aging models. Results: Transcriptome analysis revealed distinct gene expression patterns for NAD⁺ and its precursors (NMN, NR, and NAM), showing significant differences between NMN and other precursors (NR and NMN). NMN seemed to be significantly involved in cytokine and chemokine activity. It significantly elevated cellular NAD⁺ levels, activated sirtuin and autophagy pathways, and enhanced mitochondrial function, collectively maintaining cellular homeostasis under stress. Furthermore, it suppressed cellular senescence, promoted cell proliferation, supported extracellular matrix integrity, and accelerated wound healing. Conclusions: The study provided essential mechanistic evidence supporting the anti-aging effects of NMN in skin cells and addressed the current lack of scientific validation of NMN-based topical applications. The findings established a solid academic background for future translational research and the development of NMN-based therapeutics and cosmeceuticals. Full article

In this study, the cosmeceutical potential of a 70% ethanol extract of Rosa lucieae was investigated as a multifunctional bioactive ingredient. The extract was systematically evaluated for its antioxidant, anti-melanogenic, and anti-aging properties, and was comprehensively phytochemically profiled using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The analysis tentatively identified 21 metabolites, including phenolic acids (gallic acid, ellagic acid, and corilagin), flavonoids (catechin, rutin, quercetin, hyperoside, and quercitrin), and glycosidic derivatives (e.g., phlorizin), several of which are well-documented for their skin-protective effects. Quantitative measurements confirmed high polyphenol and flavonoid contents, correlating with strong radical-scavenging and reducing capacities in α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid, as well as ferric ion reducing antioxidant power assays. Moreover, the extract inhibited tyrosinase activity and 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine oxidation, thereby suppressing melanin biosynthesis. In addition, marked inhibitory effects against collagenase, elastase, and hyaluronidase were observed; these enzymes are critically involved in extracellular matrix degradation and skin aging. Taken together, these results indicate that the biological activities of R. lucieae are supported by a diverse polyphenol- and flavonoid-rich chemical profile, highlighting the potential of this plant as a natural multifunctional ingredient for cosmeceutical, nutraceutical, functional food, and preventive healthcare applications. Full article

Phlorizin (PHZ) is a glucoside of phloretin, belonging to the dihydrochalcone class within flavonoids; It is one of the active ingredients of the plant Cynomorium, and it has been shown that PHZ can regulate lipid metabolism disorders as well as having anti-aging properties. However, no studies have investigated whether PHZ ameliorates Aβ-induced toxicity in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) by regulating fatty acid β-oxidation. This study aims to investigate the effects of PHZ on the regulation of fatty acid β-oxidation and resistance to Aβ-associated toxicity on the AD Caenorhabditis elegans and the mechanisms of action. Wild-type N2 and AD model CL4176 C. elegans were used; lifespan, heat stress resistance, chronic paraquat stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), behavioral performance, and lipofuscin accumulation assays were examined to evaluate the anti-aging effects; and non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), triglyceride (TG) and lipidomic contents were quantified after PHZ treatment. The detection of genes related to fatty acid β-oxidation pathways was performed using qRT-PCR. nhr-49 knockout mutant RB1716; and GFP-binding mutants PMD150 WBM170 were used to observe the effect of PHZ on NHR-49 pathways, and molecular docking studies were performed by combining PHZ with NHR-49 proteins. Results showed that PHZ improved worms’ survival and delayed senescence, as demonstrated by enhanced performance in lifespan, heat stress, ROS, and paraquat assays and chronic paraquat assays; PHZ also reduced lipid accumulation in worms, affected the unsaturated fatty acid pathway, and significantly increased the expression of fatty acid metabolism-related genes nhr-49, acs-2, and cpt-5, and can be tightly coupled to NHR-49 targets. PHZ may play an anti-Aβ toxicity role by regulating lipid metabolism disorders through the NHR-49—related pathway and anti-aging in AD worms. Full article

The bark of Dillenia indica L. is a rich source of phenolic and triterpenoid compounds, including betulinic acid (BA), known for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. This study investigated the antioxidant potential of a BA-enriched extract through a multidisciplinary approach combining computational, experimental, and cell-based evaluations. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations revealed that BA binds stably to Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (KEAP1), suggesting activation of the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. Extraction conditions were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) modeling, yielding the maximum total phenolic content (TPC; 85.33 ± 2.26 mg gallic acid equivalents/g) and total flavonoid content (TFC; 75.60 ± 1.66 mg catechin equivalents/g), with ANN demonstrating superior predictive performance compared to RSM. Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (ESI-MS/MS) confirmed the presence of BA in the optimized extract. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion revealed reductions in TPC, TFC, and radical scavenging activity during the gastric phase. In ultraviolet B (UVB)-irradiated human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells, the optimized extract significantly reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and upregulated the KEAP1-Nrf2-heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) pathway, confirming its antioxidant mechanism. These findings highlight the extract’s stability, bioactivity, and mechanistic efficacy, supporting its application as a nutraceutical ingredient for combating oxidative stress and skin aging. Full article

Cellular senescence is a major barrier to the therapeutic application of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), as it compromises their proliferative capacity, differentiation potential, and regenerative efficacy. In this study, we investigated whether FN9-10ELP, a recombinant extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimetic fusion protein composed of fibronectin type III domains 9 and 10 conjugated to elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs), could attenuate etoposide-induced senescence in human turbinate-derived MSCs (hTMSCs). Premature senescence was induced by treatment with 20 µM etoposide, and the protective effects of FN9-10ELP were evaluated in terms of cell viability (using the MTT assay), senescence-associated gene expression (by RT-qPCR analysis), nuclear morphology (after staining with 4’,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)), and SA-β-galactosidase activity. FN9-10ELP treatment significantly improved cell viability and reduced the expression of senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) genes, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). Furthermore, FN9-10ELP alleviated nuclear enlargement and decreased the proportion of SA-β-gal-positive cells, indicating suppression of the senescence phenotype. These findings demonstrate that FN9-10ELP effectively counteracts chemotherapy-induced senescence in hMSCs and highlight its potential as a promising biomaterial for regenerative medicine and anti-aging therapies. Full article

Products with biologically active ingredients have emerged as a powerful category within the skincare and anti-aging sectors. Bridging the gap between pharmaceuticals and cosmetics, they offer therapeutic benefits supported by scientific evidence while maintaining the esthetic appeal of traditional skincare. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of cosmeceuticals with a particular focus on their anti-aging potential. This review highlights recent advances in cosmeceutical actives. Next-generation retinoids such as hydroxypinacolone retinoate and retinyl retinoate show comparable efficacy to tretinoin with improved tolerability, though current studies are small and short-term. Peptides, including signal, carrier, and neurotransmission-inhibiting peptides, offer multifunctional effects on extracellular matrix remodeling and wrinkle reduction, with supportive but modest clinical evidence enhanced by nanocarrier delivery. Antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and coenzyme Q10, are supported by controlled trials showing improvements in photoprotection, mitochondrial function, and wrinkle depth, though data are limited by sample size and follow-up. Botanical polyphenols are gaining prominence: nanoparticle-encapsulated epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) enhances anti-photoaging activity in preclinical studies; oral microencapsulated curcumin has shown visible benefits in nutricosmetic trials; and bakuchiol, a retinol-like meroterpene, demonstrated comparable efficacy to retinol with superior tolerability. Advances in delivery systems—including nanoemulsions, phospholipid complexes, and encapsulation technologies—improve stability, bioavailability, and skin penetration. In conclusion, retinoids, vitamin C, and AHAs/BHAs remain the most evidence-based actives, whereas newer bioactives and advanced formulations appear promising but require larger, long-term randomized trials to establish their role in dermatologic practice. Full article

Background: Hormonal fluctuations significantly influence skin physiology, affecting collagen production, sebum regulation, pigmentation, and tissue repair. Hormonal therapies are increasingly used in cosmetic dermatology to address age-related and hormone-dependent skin changes. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes the current literature on the mechanisms, clinical applications, and future directions of hormonal therapies in dermatologic aesthetics. Studies were selected through a comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Results: Estrogens, androgens, progesterone, and other hormones act on skin through specific receptors, modulating fibroblast, sebocyte, and melanocyte activity. Clinical applications include hormone-based strategies for anti-aging, acne, melasma, alopecia, and postmenopausal atrophy. Both systemic (e.g., HRT) and topical (e.g., clascoterone, phytoestrogens) approaches are discussed. Safety concerns, including systemic absorption and off-label use, require careful evaluation. Emerging technologies such as SERMs, nanocarriers, and regenerative combinations suggest promising future avenues. Conclusions: Hormonal therapies offer a biologically rational and increasingly evidence-based tool in cosmetic dermatology. Responsible integration into clinical practice depends on personalized approaches, ethical prescribing, and further research on long-term safety and efficacy. Full article

This review concentrates on the bioactive potential of two significant agri-food by-products: coffee by-products (coffee pulp and husk, spent coffee grounds, and silverskin) and olive by-products (olive mill wastewater, pomace, stones, and leaves). These residues are produced in substantial quantities, and despite their considerable application potential, they remain predominantly underutilized, thereby contributing to environmental burdens and economic losses. Their richness in bioactive compounds is unequivocal. Specifically, coffee by-products are abundant in caffeine and chlorogenic acids, whereas olive by-products serve as excellent sources of oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol, and tyrosol. Such compounds possess health-promoting properties and are promising active ingredients for cosmetic formulations, owing to their antioxidant, anti-aging, UV protective, antimicrobial, emollient, and moisturizing effects. This review not only compiles the bioactive compounds present in these by-products and explores their potential applications but also examines the extraction methods employed for their recovery. Both conventional techniques (solvent extraction) and green extraction technologies (ultrasound-assisted extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction) are discussed. These innovative and environmentally friendly approaches enhance extraction efficiency and are aligned with sustainability objectives. In this context, the importance of incorporating natural ingredients into cosmetic products is emphasized, both to meet regulatory and environmental standards and to satisfy the increasing consumer demand for safer, more effective, and environmentally sustainable formulations. Full article

With an aging population, there is a worldwide increase in the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia. Research focusing on aging has revealed a time-related accumulation of senescent cells that escape the cell cycle but remain metabolically active and spread the senescent traits to neighboring cells via the senescence-associated secretory phenotype. The accumulated senescent cells in various tissues are involved in the pathogenesis of several age-related conditions. As such, eliminating them would be an appealing anti-aging strategy. Following the high success rates of engineered chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-T cells in hematological malignancies, the scientific community has tried to adapt the strategy to fight aging and age-related diseases. Research in this area is only in its infancy, but the results obtained from in vitro and animal models are encouraging. Due to the serious side effects of CAR-T cell therapies (cytokine release syndrome, immune cell-associated neurological syndrome) and because in AD the elimination of neurons with neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid aggregates should be avoided (given the limited regenerative potential of these cells), CAR macrophages, CAR regulatory T cells, or exosomes derived from these cells are a more promising approach. Full article

The increasing demand for natural, safe, and sustainable ingredients is driving innovation in cosmetic science. This study assessed the anti-aging potential of 17 petal extracts using a multidisciplinary bioanalytical approach. In vitro spectrophotometric assays evaluated anti-wrinkle (anti-elastase), anti-pigmentation (anti-tyrosinase), and antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS) activities, while cytotoxicity was tested on HaCaT keratinocytes. Chemical profiling using HPTLC and UHPLC–MS/MS identified 17 phenolic compounds. For the first time, petals from prairie rose (Rosa setigera Michx.), common peony (Paeonia officinalis L.), horse-chestnut cultivars (Aesculus hippocastanum L., Aesculus × carnea Zeyx.), lilac (Syringa vulgaris), mock-orange (Philadelphus pubescens Loisel), orange lily (Lilium bulbiferum L.), garden tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.), ivy geranium (Pelargonium × peltatum (L.) L’Hér. ex Aiton), and wallflower (Erysimum × cheiri (L.) Crantz) were studied for their skin anti-aging properties. Prairie rose, peony, and ivy geranium extracts showed strong anti-elastase activity; rose and peony also demonstrated high antioxidant potential, while lilac exhibited significant anti-tyrosinase effects. Key phenolic constituents—caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and gallic acid—were further examined via molecular docking, which confirmed their inhibitory properties by revealing inhibition mechanisms. All extracts were confirmed to be non-toxic in zebrafish acute toxicity assays at relevant concentrations. This integrative strategy effectively links chemical composition with biological activity, offering valuable insight into the development of safe, plant-derived anti-aging agents for sustainable cosmetic applications. Full article

Microalgae and cyanobacteria produce extracellular polysaccharides that are exuded and released into the medium, typically referred to as exopolysaccharides (EPSs). Microalgae-derived EPSs have garnered attention in the last decade, as they may exhibit specific bioactivities and therefore hold promise for biofunctional applications in the biomedical, food, agricultural, and cosmetic fields. In cosmetic formulations, EPSs can be included both to improve techno-functional and sensorial properties and as active ingredients, showing great potential in the preparation of cosmetic products aimed at hydration and anti-aging. This review surveys the literature on the potential of EPS microalgae in skin care and cosmeceutical formulations to reveal a material that is sometimes discarded during the microalgae cultivation process and that can be recovered for cosmetic use. The conclusions of this review highlight that EPSs from microalgae and cyanobacteria exhibit different physicochemical and biological functionalities, making them attractive for potential exploitation as commercial sources of new polysaccharides. Full article