Polyphenols and Botanical Antioxidants in Skin Care

Plant-Derived Polyphenols and Skin Physiology

Skin health is not merely cosmetic; it is closely linked to the biochemical processes that maintain the structural and physiological integrity of the epidermal barrier. Among the compounds that interact with these processes, polyphenols—especially those derived from botanical sources—have gained attention for their potential role in responding to oxidative and environmental stress.

Polyphenolic compounds are secondary metabolites found in plants, typically characterized by one or more hydroxyl (-OH) groups attached to aromatic rings. Main subclasses include flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans. These molecules may support the plant’s defense system against UV radiation, microbial threats, and oxidative imbalance.

Within flavonoids, molecules such as quercetin, kaempferol, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) are frequently studied for their potential to modulate lipid peroxidation and contribute to dermal fibroblast activity—particularly in the regulation of extracellular matrix components.

Subgroups like tannins and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives are also investigated for their interaction with DNA integrity, collagen breakdown, and melanin production following prolonged UV exposure, often in relation to photooxidative mechanisms.

Carotenoids and Botanical Extract Applications

Carotenoids such as β-carotene, lycopene, and lutein are lipid-soluble pigments found in many plants. Due to their lipophilic nature, they may integrate into the sebaceous layers of the skin and engage with reactive oxygen species (ROS), potentially interrupting oxidative chain reactions associated with photoaging processes.

At Greenext, we formulate standardized botanical extracts such as Centaurea cyanus and Rosmarinus officinalis L., cultivated under traceable, contract-based agriculture. These extracts contain naturally occurring polyphenols and antioxidant molecules that may be integrated into dermocosmetic formulations depending on product design.

• Centaurea cyanus (Cornflower): Known for flavonoid content that may be compatible with formulations targeting sensitive skin.
• Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Rosemary): Contains carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, both of which have been explored in oxidative stress models.

References

• Nichols, J.A., & Katiyar, S.K. (2010). Skin photoprotection by natural polyphenols. Archives of Dermatological Research.
• Krutmann, J., et al. (2014). The skin aging exposome. Journal of Dermatological Science.