The field of cosmetic and dermatological research has increasingly focused on bioactive compounds derived from marine and plant sources due to their potential benefits for skin health. A study published in Pharmaceuticals explores various sources, including fungi, sea sponges, marine corals, and plant extracts, highlighting their roles in skincare and their potential for future research and development.
Vitamin E is a group of compounds composed of tocopherols (α, β, γ, and δ) and tocotrienols (α, β, γ, and δ). It is widely found in vegetable oils, nuts, spinach, and cereals. Vitamin E Plays a crucial role in skin maintenance by participating in keratinocyte differentiation and stimulating ceramide, collagen, and elastin synthesis, which helps preserve the lipid structure of the stratum corneum. Furthermore, vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the skin from oxidative damage and reducing erythema caused by ultraviolet radiation.
Unlike other animals, humans lack the enzyme L-gulonolactone oxidase, which necessitates dietary intake of vitamin C from citrus fruits, vegetables, and leafy greens. Vitamin C is essential for collagen and ceramide synthesis, aiding in skin hydration and structural integrity. It also functions as a photo protectant, reducing oxidative stress and preventing premature aging. When combined with vitamins A and E, vitamin C enhances UV-A radiation protection, making it a crucial component of many skincare formulations.
Selenium, present in plant-based foods (nuts, legumes, cereals, and vegetables) and animal-based sources (meat, seafood, eggs, and dairy), has a protective effect against oxidative stress induced by UV radiation. Selenium-dependent antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase and thioredoxin reductase, help mitigate skin damage and prevent wrinkle formation. Research suggests selenium supplementation may contribute to skin rejuvenation and act as an anti-aging agent by restoring cellular function and minimizing the impact of environmental stressors.
Zinc is an essential mineral obtained from meat, fish, dairy, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Zinc enhances immune function by modulating macrophage and neutrophil activity while reducing inflammatory cytokines. Dermatological formulations containing zinc have been effective in treating conditions like acne, rosacea, keratosis, and eczema. Additionally, zinc oxide serves as a physical UV filter in sunscreens, reflecting and dispersing harmful rays.
Carotenoids are pigments responsible for the vibrant colors of many plant foods and are also found in animal products, algae, fungi, and bacteria. Important carotenoids such as β-carotene, lycopene, lutein, and astaxanthin play a significant role in skin health. These compounds exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and photoprotective properties. They help prevent lipid peroxidation, protect collagen from degradation, and suppress UV-induced damage. Regular carotenoid supplementation (2–3 mg/day) has been shown to enhance skin hydration, texture, elasticity, and protection against hyperpigmentation and erythema.
Polyphenols are diverse compounds present in spices, fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetables. They are classified into flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and tannins. Polyphenols exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and photoprotective effects, making them valuable in preventing skin aging and disorders. Resveratrol, found in grapes and berries, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), abundant in green tea, have demonstrated significant skin benefits, including improved moisture retention and enhanced protection against environmental aggressors.
Marine fungi have demonstrated significant potential in cosmetic applications due to their production of secondary metabolites that enhance skin health. Some marine species exhibit anti-hyperpigmentation properties, making them valuable in treating uneven skin tone and discoloration. Additionally, some species are known for their production of squalene, which acts as an emollient, anti-inflammatory, and restorative agent. These fungi also generate carotenoids such as astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, and canthaxanthin, which have potent antioxidant effects.
Marine sponges are another valuable source of bioactive compounds that contribute to skin health. In vitro studies on species have shown their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, and anti-acne properties. Marine corals have been used in topical applications to deliver essential minerals to the skin while offering protection against ultraviolet radiation. Coral powder is utilized in cosmetic products due to its antioxidant, anti-aging, and anti-acne effects. Specific coral metabolites, including diterpene glycosides and pseudopterosins, have been identified as having anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, anti-acne, and wound-healing properties.
The skin serves as an indicator of overall health and nutrient status, benefiting significantly from bioactive compounds derived from marine and plant sources.. The integration of marine and plant-derived ingredients in cosmetics represents a promising approach to maintaining skin health and enhancing dermatological treatments.
Sources: Pharmaceuticals
