Search Results (378)

The integration of extremophile-derived bioactives into cosmeceuticals and nutricosmetics offers a novel strategy to enhance skin health through both topical and systemic approaches. Extremophile microorganisms, adapted to extreme conditions, produce unique compounds such as ectoine, extremozymes, carotenoids, exopolysaccharides (EPSs), and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). These molecules exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, and regenerative properties. This review analyzes the molecular adaptations that enable extremophiles to synthesize these compounds, and explores their cosmetic applications, including enzymatic exfoliation, UV protection, hydration, and anti-pollution effects. This paper examines their nutraceutical potential, highlighting systemic benefits such as improved skin elasticity, reduced photoaging, and modulation of the gut–skin axis via prebiotic EPSs. Industrial strategies for sustainable production, such as microbial fermentation, synthetic biology, and green extraction, are discussed. Examples of commercial ingredients like PlusXanthin™, Antarctic-G, and Desertica. Extremophile-derived ingredients combine biological efficacy with environmental sustainability, positioning them as key assets for next-generation skincare. Future directions include clinical validation, regulatory harmonization, and the development of personalized, microbiome-friendly formulations. Full article

Background: Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation induces oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation in skin, leading to photodamage. Ergosterol (ERG)—a sterol widely distributed in fungi and algae, including numerous marine species—possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, but its photoprotective mechanisms remain unclear. Methods: Using integrated in vitro (UVB-irradiated human keratinocytes) and in vivo (topical ERG in a murine UVB model) approaches, combined with transcriptomic and network pharmacology analyses, we evaluated ERG’s effects on oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix integrity. Results: ERG treatment preserved keratinocyte viability, reduced reactive oxygen species, and suppressed pro-inflammatory mediators after UVB exposure. In mice, topical ERG significantly attenuated epidermal hyperplasia, maintained tight-junction integrity, and inhibited collagen matrix degradation. Mechanistically, ERG exerted dual inhibition of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway, which mediates inflammation, and the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, which regulates collagen degradation. Conclusions: These findings identify ERG as a marine-derived sterol with potent photoprotective activity that simultaneously targets oxidative stress, inflammation, and extracellular matrix damage, highlighting its promise as a natural compound for dermatological applications and aligning with ongoing efforts to explore marine-derived agents against skin oxidative stress and inflammation. Full article

Hylocereus species are promising for enhancing fruit productivity in arid regions, but high solar radiation often leads to yield loss. This study aimed to evaluate the short-term impact of different shading levels on the physiological performance, productivity, and post-harvest quality of Hylocereus costaricensis under semi-arid conditions. Plants were grown in the field under two shade levels, i.e., 35 and 50% and their performances were compared to plants under control, i.e., 0% of shade or full sunlight. The nighttime CO₂ assimilation and productivity increased significantly by 310.5 and 114.6% and 34.3 and 50.14% for plants under 35 and 50% of shade, respectively, compared to the control. A Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that shade enhanced skin betalain (BETS) and phenolic content (PETP), whereas non-shaded plants expressed traits more closely associated with plant and fruit photoprotective pigment synthesis, i.e., total carotenoids and yellow flavonoids, respectively, along with total sugar accumulation, underscoring the significant impact of shading on both metabolic activity and overall agronomic outcomes. Shading within the 35% to 50% range is effective to cope with high solar radiation by improving photosynthetic capacity, productivity, and post-harvest quality, especially regarding the accumulation of pigments such as betalains, indicating that shade as an agro-technique is a valuable approach for the cultivation of Hylocereus species in dryland regions. Full article

Background/Objectives: Solar elastosis, a key histopathological alteration in skin photodamage, results from chronic UV exposure and photoaging. Clinically, it manifests as deep wrinkles, laxity, and a dull complexion. The growing demand for effective treatments has spurred the development of numerous therapeutic strategies. This systematic review aims to synthesize and critically evaluate the scientific evidence regarding interventions for treating the clinical and histological manifestations of solar elastosis, to provide an updated overview and guide future clinical practice. Methods: PubMed, Scopus, ProQuest, and Web of Science databases were searched for articles published in the last ten years. Clinical studies on adults with signs of solar elastosis and photoaging, evaluating therapeutic interventions, were included. Primary outcomes were clinical and histopathological improvements, while secondary outcomes included skin elasticity, safety, and patient satisfaction. This review was registered in the PROSPERO database under registration number CRD420251086680. Results: Twenty-two studies, totaling 608 participants, were included. The analyzed therapies comprised a wide range of strategies, including energy-based devices (laser, radiofrequency), stem cell derivatives, bioactive topical compounds, and growth factor-rich plasma. Device-assisted and biologically augmented interventions consistently improved visible photoaging outcomes and skin elasticity, with selective histologic remodeling, heterogeneous effects on barrier function, and an overall acceptable safety profile, with mild and transient adverse events. Patient satisfaction was consistently high. Conclusions: Therapeutic strategies in solar elastosis and photoaging, particularly those combining energy-based devices with regenerative agents, have proven effective in improving the structural and functional aspects of photodamaged skin. Although the results are promising, the current literature is limited by methodological heterogeneity and small sample sizes. High-quality randomized controlled trials with long-term follow-up are needed to establish standardized, evidence-based protocols. Full article

Skin aging, including photoaging, is primarily triggered by chronic exposure to solar radiation, which induces free radical formation, cellular deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage, and structural skin alterations. Achillea millefolium L. (Asteraceae) is rich in phenolic compounds and alkamides, substances known for their antioxidant activity. This study aimed to develop and characterize a photoprotective phytocosmetic nanoemulsion containing crude root extract of A. millefolium. The extract exhibited a total phenolic content of 3.067 ± 1.911 µg GAE/mL, potent antioxidant activity (EC₅₀ = 69.11 ± 8.899 µg/mL), moderate tyrosinase inhibition (19 ± 1.8%), and no cytotoxicity in keratinocytes. The extract was incorporated into nanoemulsions at concentrations of 0.1%, 0.5%, and 1%. The resulting droplets showed mean diameters of 217 to 230 nm, with a significant increase in the polydispersity index (PDI) after extract addition (p < 0.05). Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed the spherical morphology of the droplets. The in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) was 14 ± 0.9 in the control formulation and increased to 15 ± 2.0 (0.1%), 22 ± 5.2 (0.5%), and 17 ± 1.0 (1%), suggesting a synergistic effect between the extract and chemical filters. All formulations demonstrated UVA/UVB ratio > 0.6, a pH near to 5, occlusive properties, and good spreadability. The results indicate that A. millefolium extract holds potential for safe photoprotective formulations, offering a valuable antioxidant and depigmenting activity in addition to enhancing the SPF. This position is an innovative alternative to phytocosmetic development. Full article

The synergistic effects of stratospheric ozone depletion and climate change are intensifying surface ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation, posing a severe threat to amphibians—one of the most endangered vertebrate groups globally. Xenopus laevis, with its cutaneous respiration and limited photoprotective mechanisms, exhibits high sensitivity to UVB, making it a suitable model for ecotoxicological studies. While UVB is known to cause DNA damage, immune suppression, and microbial dysbiosis, its mechanisms in multi-organ interactions, dose–response thresholds, and host–microbiome regulatory networks remain poorly understood. This study employed a gradient UVB exposure regime integrated with histopathology, oxidative stress assays, and 16S rRNA sequencing to systematically evaluate the effects of UVB on (1) cascade damage across skin, liver, and intestinal barriers; (2) immune cell distribution; (3) redox dynamics; and (4) microbial community structure and function. Our findings demonstrate that low-dose UVB activated compensatory antioxidant defenses without structural disruption, whereas exposure beyond a critical threshold induced nonlinear redox collapse, microbial dysbiosis, and multi-organ barrier failure, collectively exacerbating ecological adaptation risks. These results reveal a cross-scale mechanism by which UVB impairs amphibian health via disruption of host–microbe homeostasis, providing a conceptual and empirical framework for assessing species vulnerability under ongoing climate change. Full article

Background: Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is widely used as a physical filter in sunscreen formulations due to its ability to reflect and scatter radiation. The effectiveness of TiO₂-based preparations depends on particle size, influencing photoprotective properties across various wavelength ranges. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of TiO₂ particle size on the photoprotective properties of pharmaceutical preparations using hyperspectral imaging (HIS). Methods: This study analyses directional reflectance of skin covered with preparations containing TiO₂ particles < 5 µm and <100 nm across the spectral range 400–1002 nm. Results: Preparations with TiO₂ < 5 µm showed higher reflectance in both the 400–633 nm and 900–1002 nm ranges, while no significant protective enhancement was observed in the 636–897 nm range. Conclusions: Larger TiO₂ particles provided more significant photoprotection across a broader wavelength spectrum, highlighting the importance of particle size selection in modern sunscreen formulations. This experimental in vitro study evaluated the photoprotective properties of pharmaceutical preparations containing titanium dioxide particles of different sizes. The measurements were performed using hyperspectral imaging in the 400–1000 nm range, covering ultraviolet and visible light. Full article

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

Objective: This study aimed to develop eco-friendly zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel extract and to evaluate their antioxidant, antimicrobial, and photoprotective potential. Method: ZnO NPs were synthesized via a green chemistry route employing polyphenol- and flavonoid-rich peel extract as reducing and stabilizing agents. The nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, SEM, XRD, DSC, DLS, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. Biological activities were assessed through in vitro assays including antioxidant (DPPH), anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, anti-tyrosinase, antimicrobial activity, and SPF determination. In vivo photoprotective efficacy was further evaluated in UVB-irradiated rat models, with histological analysis to confirm structural skin changes. Results: The optimized ZnO NPs exhibited an average particle size of ~194 nm with a zeta potential of −18.2 mV, indicating good stability. They demonstrated notable antioxidant activity (DPPH IC₅₀ = 52.91 µg/mL), substantial tyrosinase inhibition (72% at 200 µg/mL), and antibacterial activity with inhibition zones up to 19 mm against S. aureus and 17 mm against E. coli. The nanoparticles also showed excellent UV absorption, with an SPF value of 29.8, exceeding the FDA threshold for effective sun protection. In vivo, topical application of ZnO NPs in UVB-exposed rats led to a 69% reduction in epidermal thickness and preservation of collagen fibers compared with UV controls. Conclusions: These findings confirm that P. granatum peel extract–mediated ZnO NPs possess significant antioxidant, antimicrobial, and photoprotective activities. Full article

The revalorization of agro-industrial by-products is a key strategy for promoting sustainability and the circular economy. This study assessed the photoprotective potential of underutilized carob (Ceratonia siliqua L.) fractions, including unripe and mature pods, leaves, and seed tissues, through chemical characterization, in vitro assays, and in vivo validation. Extracts showed high polyphenol contents (up to 4.8 g GAE/100 g) and strong antioxidant activity (up to 45 g TE/100 g). Photoprotective properties were confirmed by a solar protection factor of up to 17 and erythema transmission values of 3–6, indicating efficient UV absorption and anti-inflammatory potential, which together support overall skin protection. To validate these effects under physiological conditions, Caenorhabditis elegans was used as an in vivo model under three exposure modalities: complete exposure (contact and ingestion), the barrier effect (UV shielding by the medium), and the physiological effect (systemic protection after ingestion). Seed episperm and unripe pods showed the highest efficacy. Notably, complete exposure reduced UV-induced lethality from 98% to below 50%, mainly due to the barrier effect. This is the first report demonstrating the photoprotective activity of carob by-products in C. elegans, supporting their potential as natural ingredients for cosmetic and nutraceutical applications, and contributing to the sustainable revalorization of local agricultural residues. Full article

This study explores the photoprotective and antioxidant potential of cosmetic emulsions formulated with Alnus glutinosa (black alder) extracts. Extraction of bioactive compounds was performed using Soxhlet, ultrasound-assisted, and microwave-assisted techniques with ethanol and water as solvents. The phytochemical profiles of the resulting extracts were characterized via UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). The extracts were incorporated into oil-in-water emulsions and assessed for antioxidant activity using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, pH and viscosity stability, and color L*a*b* values. Among the extraction methods, ethanol-based Soxhlet extraction yielded the highest concentration of bioactive compounds and demonstrated superior antioxidant and photoprotective efficacy. This is the first report that evaluates the antioxidant properties of A. glutinosa-enriched emulsions, supporting their application as multifunctional, plant-derived cosmeceuticals for skin protection. Full article

Skin diseases, affecting one-third of the population, are a growing global health problem. The complexity of skin architecture, along with diverse symptomatology and intricate pathogenesis of dermatological disorders, highlights the urgent need for novel therapeutic strategies. Effective treatment of impaired wound healing and chronic skin diseases, including atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, remains challenging. Phytoterapeutics are increasingly investigated for their dermatologic potential, with numerous natural products of established use. Proanthocyanidins (PACs), a subclass of polyphenolic compounds, renowned for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, are promising candidates for novel solutions. This review article synthesizes the recent 25 years of research on biomolecular mechanisms, pharmacological effects, and phytochemical aspects of PACs, in the context of treating inflammatory-related skin problems. The available data highlight pro-regenerative, pro-angiogenic, antioxidative, and anti-inflammatory effects of PACs in accelerating wound closure. Preclinical data suggest their potent ability to mitigate chronic skin inflammatory disorders, including psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Moreover, their photoprotective properties translate to the prevention of UV-induced skin inflammation. However, critical knowledge gaps remain regarding clinical verification and structure-activity relationships of PACs as dermatologic agents. Further optimization of topical formulation systems for PACs is also pressingly needed. Bridging traditional phytotherapy with novel discoveries in molecular pharmacology and pharmaceutical technology could help to design innovative PAC-based approaches for treating inflammatory skin diseases and impaired wound healing. Full article

UV radiation is responsible for acute and chronic adverse effects on the skin. In recent years, it has been shown that various phenolic acids, particularly cinnamic acid derivatives, prevent some of these effects. In the present study, the design and synthesis of three esters of ferulic acid, analogues of the octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC), one of the most commercially used filters, are presented. The esters were evaluated for their photoprotective activity against UVA and UVB radiation. The ester 3b exhibited an SPF of 9.22 and a λ_c value of 343.9, higher than the values of OMC (SPF value: 8.19, λ_c value: 337.7). The development and optimization of a novel encapsulation process of the synthesized esters in nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) and coating of the NLCs with chitosan was also performed. The optimization of the coating processes was performed using a Box–Behnken experimental design. The optimal nanosystems exhibited a size of 117.0 ± 5 nm, enhanced stability in dispersion, and 78% encapsulation efficiency. The nanoparticles were characterized by ATR/FT–IR, TGA, and TEM. Incorporation of the nanoparticle dispersions in a sunscreen formulation increased the SPF factor of the formulation up to 48%. The esters and nanosystems also showed a satisfactory ability to inhibit the peroxidation of linoleic acid (AAPH induced lipid peroxidation assay) (74–91% inhibition). Full article

Oculocutaneous albinism (OCA) increases susceptibility to ultraviolet (UV) skin damage, skin cancer risk, and psychosocial burden. Data from Madagascar are lacking. We conducted a six-month pilot study (July–December 2024) in northern Madagascar (DIANA and SAVA regions). Forty-one individuals with OCA were enrolled. Baseline socio-demographic, clinical, and behavioral data were collected through interviews and dermatological examinations. A structured program provided education, culturally adapted materials, and photoprotective resources, with monthly follow-up visits. The cohort included 22 males and 19 females, with a mean age of 18 years (range: 1 month–35 years). Actinic keratoses were present in 61% of participants, and invasive skin cancer in 4.9%. All patients had photophobia and nystagmus. Social discrimination was reported by 65.9%, with 12.2% describing severe abuse. Baseline photoprotection was inadequate: 43.9% reported no protective practices, 7.3% used sunscreen, and 19.5% avoided midday sun. Follow-up was completed by 20/41 patients (48.8%). Among completers, paired analysis showed a decrease in sunburn prevalence from 95.0% to 10.0% (p < 0.0001), an increase in regular sunscreen use from 0.0% to 100.0% (p < 0.0001), use of protective clothing from 35.0% to 80.0% (p = 0.0039), and adoption of behavioral strategies from 15.0% to 50.0% (p = 0.0156). This first study on OCA in northern Madagascar demonstrates a high burden of UV-related dermatoses and stigma. A low-cost community intervention significantly improved photoprotection. Wider implementation could reduce morbidity and enhance quality of life in resource-limited settings. Full article

Valorization of Phoenix dactylifera L. (date) seeds, an abundant agro-industrial byproduct, offer a sustainable approach to developing multifunctional ingredients for dermocosmetic photoprotection. Rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and lipophilic antioxidants, date seed extracts and oils demonstrate promising UV-absorbing, anti-inflammatory, and free-radical-scavenging properties. Recent in vitro, ex vivo, and preclinical studies underscore their potential as bioactive agents in sunscreen formulations, supporting both skin barrier integrity and oxidative stress mitigation, although clinical validation is still required. This review consolidates current knowledge on the phytochemical profile and biological efficacy of date seed derivatives, with emphasis on their integration into advanced delivery systems such as nanocarriers, Pickering emulsions, and cyclodextrin complexes to enhance photostability, skin permeability, and esthetic acceptability. Safety aspects, including allergenicity, phototoxicity, and regulatory gaps, are critically examined alongside environmental and ethical advantages, including biodegradability and vegan suitability. The findings advocate for the inclusion of Phoenix dactylifera L. seed actives in next-generation dermocosmetic sunscreens that align with circular bioeconomy principles, consumer demand for “reef-safe” products, and evolving international regulations. Further clinical validation is encouraged to fully translate these botanically derived agents into effective and ethically sound sun care innovations. Full article