Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 29, 2026
Human Ex vivo Wound Model and Whole-Mount Staining Approach to Accurately Evaluate Skin Repair
Published on: February 17, 2021
Effect of botanicals on inflammation and skin aging: analyzing the evidence
Amanda Suggs, Patricia Oyetakin-White, Elma D Baron1
1Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Case Medical Center 11100 Euclid Avenue, Lakeside 3500, Mailstop 5028, Cleveland, OH 44106-5028, USA. elma.baron@uhhospitals.org.
Abstract:
The skin and its immune system manifest a decline in physiologic function as it undergoes aging. External insults such as ultraviolet light exposure cause inflammation, which may enhance skin aging even further leading to cancer and signs of photoaging. There is a potential role for botanicals as an adjunct modality in the prevention of skin aging. Numerous over-the-counter anti-aging products are commercially available, many of which boast unverified claims to reduce stress, inflammation and correct signs of aging. In this article we reviewed the scientific literature for data on frequently published "anti-inflammaging" additives such as vitamins A, C and E and green tea. We also analyzed the evidence available on five promising ingredients commonly found in anti-aging products, namely, argan oil, rosemary, pomegranate, Coenzyme Q10, and Coffeeberry. Though there may be an increasing amount of scientific data on a few of these novel botanicals, in general, there remains a lack of clinical data to support the anti-aging claims made.
Insights
Skin aging involves immune decline and inflammation from UV exposure. While botanicals show promise for anti-aging, current clinical data supporting many product claims is limited.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Immunology
- Cosmetic Science
Background:
- Skin aging is characterized by reduced physiological function and immune response.
- External factors like UV radiation exacerbate skin aging, inflammation, and photoaging, potentially increasing cancer risk.
- Botanicals are increasingly explored for their potential role in preventing skin aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review scientific literature on commonly used "anti-inflammaging" additives.
- To analyze evidence for botanicals like vitamins A, C, E, green tea, argan oil, rosemary, pomegranate, Coenzyme Q10, and Coffeeberry in anti-aging products.
- To assess the clinical data supporting the efficacy of these ingredients.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific data on selected botanical ingredients.
- Analysis of existing evidence for anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Evaluation of clinical trial data supporting product claims.
Main Results:
- Vitamins A, C, E, and green tea are frequently cited "anti-inflammaging" additives.
- Argan oil, rosemary, pomegranate, Coenzyme Q10, and Coffeeberry are promising ingredients in anti-aging formulations.
- Limited clinical data currently supports the anti-aging claims for many novel botanicals.
Conclusions:
- Botanicals show potential as adjuncts in skin aging prevention.
- More robust clinical research is needed to validate the efficacy of many ingredients in over-the-counter anti-aging products.
- The scientific community requires further evidence to support widespread claims regarding botanical anti-aging benefits.
Related Concept Videos
01:19The Effect of Aging on Tissues
01:28Inflammatory Response
Inflammation can be triggered by various stimuli, such as impact, abrasion, chemical irritation, infections, and extreme hot or cold temperatures. These can damage cells and connective tissue fibers,...
01:26Aging
Cellular Clock Theory
The cellular clock theory posits that the human lifespan is closely tied to the finite capacity of cells to divide, a phenomenon governed by telomeres, which are protective caps at the ends of...
01:12Renewal of Skin Epidermal Stem Cells
01:23Tissue Renewal without Stem Cells
However, failure of such a system...
01:27The Skin Microbiota