MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Searching for Natural Plants with Antimelanogenesis and Antityrosinase Properties for Cosmeceutical or Nutricosmetics Applications: A Systematic Review

Summary

This research reviewed natural plant extracts that could safely lighten skin tone without the harmful side effects of synthetic chemicals currently used in cosmetics. The scientists analyzed 75 different plants to find those that could naturally reduce melanin (the pigment that darkens skin) while providing antioxidant benefits. The findings show that many plants contain compounds that effectively lighten skin through natural processes. Impacts on everyday life: • Provides safer alternatives to harsh chemical skin lightening products • Identifies natural ingredients people can look for in skincare products • Helps cosmetic companies develop gentler products using plant extracts • Reduces exposure to potentially harmful synthetic whitening agents • Offers sustainable, environmentally-friendly options for skin care

Background

Excessive UV radiation exposure is a major risk factor for melanomas, premature skin aging and immune system suppression due to increased production of hydrogen peroxide and reactive oxygen species during melanogenesis. While compounds like kojic acid, hydroquinone, ascorbic acid and arbutin are used in cosmetics for their antioxidant and antityrosinase activities, their use is limited due to adverse skin effects and cytotoxicity. There is growing interest in developing natural skin-lightening products from plant extracts that are less toxic while exhibiting beneficial biological properties.

Objective

To systematically review and analyze natural plant species with antimelanogenesis and antityrosinase properties that could potentially be used as safer alternatives in cosmeceutical and nutricosmetic applications. The review aimed to gather information on extraction methods and biological assays of various plant species to identify those with depigmenting effects.

Results

The review identified 75 plant species with potential skin whitening properties, including olive, yuzu, longan and lotus. Different extraction methods and solvents were analyzed, with ethanol and water being most common. Antimelanogenesis was typically measured via melanin content in melanoma cell lines, while antityrosinase activity was assessed through mushroom tyrosinase and cellular assays. Many plants showed significant correlation between polyphenolic content and biological activities. The extraction method and solvent type were found to be crucial factors in determining biological activity levels.

Conclusion

Natural plant extracts show strong potential as safe and effective skin-whitening agents, with clear correlation between polyphenolic content and antimelanogenesis, antityrosinase and antioxidant activities. However, extraction methods and solvent selection significantly impact biological activity. Further research is needed to optimize extraction techniques and investigate structure-activity relationships of bioactive compounds. Plant-based alternatives could provide safer options compared to current synthetic skin lightening agents.
  • Published in:ACS Omega,
  • Study Type:Systematic Review,
  • Source: 10.1021/acsomega.3c02994
Scroll to Top