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Assessment of Cucurbita spp. Peel Extracts as Potential Sources of Active Substances for Skin Care and Dermatology

Summary

This study examined pumpkin peels as a sustainable source of natural compounds for skincare products. Researchers extracted active ingredients using water and plant-based solvents, then tested their antioxidant properties, ability to protect skin from sun damage, and safety for use on skin. The findings show that pumpkin peel extracts, particularly those made with water, could be safe and effective ingredients in cosmetic products.

Background

Plant-derived by-products represent a significant environmental concern but contain valuable bioactive compounds. Pumpkin peels are underutilized sources of phytochemicals with potential cosmetic and dermatological applications. Previous studies on pumpkin pulp and seeds show significant bioactive properties, but detailed analysis of peel extracts from different cultivars is lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, tyrosinase inhibition potential, in vitro sun protection factor, and cytotoxicity of extracts from peels of five cultivars of Cucurbita maxima and C. moschata prepared using green extraction solvents.

Results

Aqueous extracts contained the highest flavonoid content and showed greatest antioxidant potential and SPF values. Most extracts activated murine tyrosinase through L-tyrosine content. All extracts were non-cytotoxic up to 1000 µg/mL concentration on human keratinocytes. Phytochemical profiles differed significantly between cultivars and extraction solvents, with identification of amino acids, fatty acids, phenolic acids, and flavonoids.

Conclusion

Cucurbita spp. peel extracts demonstrate significant potential as active ingredients for cosmetic and dermatological applications, particularly aqueous extracts for antioxidant and photoprotective functions. The extracts are safe and non-irritant at cosmetically relevant concentrations, supporting their sustainable use as cosmetic ingredients.
  • Published in:Molecules,
  • Study Type:Experimental Study,
  • Source: PMID: 36364444, DOI: 10.3390/molecules27217618
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