Exploring Natural Antiaging Agents in Cosmetics: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms and Efficacy

Open

Nadia Isnaini, Vicky Prajaputra, Allysa Salsabila Lestari, Rizka Fadilla Fadli

2025 International Journal of Design and Nature and Ecodynamics Vol. 20 Issue 9 Review Cited by 0 SDG 3SDG 8SDG 17 Quartile

Abstract

The growing consumer demand for sustainable and efficacious antiaging solutions has intensified focus on natural ingredients in cosmetic science. This systematic review synthesizes evidence from 32 studies (Scopus/PubMed, 1900–2024) to evaluate the efficacy and molecular mechanisms of plant-derived antiaging ingredients. Key findings demonstrate that extracts from Leontopodium alpinum, Stenocarpus sinuatus, Echinacea purpurea, and 28 other botanicals combat skin aging through multifaceted biological activities. These agents potently neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) via NRF2 pathway activation, enhance endogenous antioxidants (SOD, catalase), and suppress inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB/MAPK signaling—reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Critically, they stimulate collagen synthesis by activating TGF-β/Smad pathways (Centella asiatica) and inhibit collagenase/elastase enzymes (Sclerocarya birrea: 99% collagenase inhibition). Fermentation-derived compounds (Magnolia officinalis fermented extract) and nanoparticle formulations (Panax ginseng berry nanoparticles) significantly enhance bioavailability and clinical outcomes, improving skin elasticity, dermal density, and wrinkle depth in human trials. However, challenges in stability and skin delivery remain, suggesting the need for advanced encapsulation methods like liposomes. ©2025 The authors.

Affiliations

Department of Pharmacy, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; ARC-PUIPT Nilam Aceh, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Research Center for Marine Sciences and Fisheries, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Department of Marine Sciences, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia; Department of Dental Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia

Research at a Glance

Premium content — register to unlock

Research at a Glance

Register to unlock

Topics & SDG Alignment

Premium content — register to unlock

Topics & SDG Alignment

Register to unlock

Collaboration

Premium content — register to unlock

Collaboration

Register to unlock

Author Profile (Selected)

Premium content — register to unlock

Author Profile (Selected)

Register to unlock

References Overview

Premium content — register to unlock

References Overview

Register to unlock

Journal & Source

Premium content — register to unlock

Journal & Source

Register to unlock

Metadata & Integrity

Premium content — register to unlock

Metadata & Integrity

Register to unlock