Skin aging is influenced by both internal factors like genetics and external stressors such as UV exposure, pollution, and lifestyle habits. These triggers lead to decreased cellular function, reduced collagen synthesis, oxidative stress, and visible signs of aging. As consumer demand for natural skincare grows, both natural mineral waters (NMWs) and plant extracts have gained attention for their potential anti-aging properties. NMWs are known to enhance hydration, support skin barrier function, and reduce oxidative stress. Similarly, plant extracts—rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids—can counteract cellular aging and support regeneration. This study investigated whether combining Portuguese NMWs with plant-based extracts or hydrolates (particularly from agro-industrial residues) could enhance their anti-aging effects.
Methods
Five Portuguese NMWs were combined with extracts or hydrolates from five plants: Ficus carica L., Rubus idaeus L., Vaccinium myrtillus, Cistus ladanifer, and Thymus x citriodorus. The mixtures were evaluated in vitro using fibroblasts and macrophages to assess biocompatibility, antioxidant capacity, anti-senescence potential, wound healing activity, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) reduction. Assays included DPPH, MTT, scratch wound assay, β-galactosidase staining, ROS quantification, and SOD activity testing.
Key Findings
- Biocompatibility: All 25 combinations were biocompatible, with Cistus ladanifer and Thymus x citriodorus hydrolates generally more compatible than extracts.
- Antioxidant Activity: Combining NMWs with extracts (especially Ficus carica) significantly improved antioxidant capacity—up to 90% in some cases.
- Anti-Senescence: Mixtures with NMW A or C + Cistus ladanifer reduced senescent cells by ~40% compared to controls.
- Skin Regeneration: Combinations with Rubus idaeus (notably NMW A + extract) increased fibroblast migration by over 50%, suggesting enhanced wound healing.
- ROS Reduction: NMW C + Cistus ladanifer and similar mixtures reduced ROS by up to 33%, reversing oxidative stress to near-baseline levels.
- SOD Activity: Only the combination of NMW B + Thymus x citriodorus significantly increased SOD enzyme activity, indicating boosted antioxidant defenses.
This study introduces novel evidence supporting the use of NMW and plant extract combinations as effective anti-aging agents in skincare. Their ability to reduce oxidative stress, improve cell regeneration, and decrease cellular senescence highlights their potential for dermocosmetic formulations. Combinations such as NMW A + Cistus ladanifer and NMW A + Rubus idaeus stood out as especially promising. Future research should focus on identifying the active compounds and validating these effects in more complex biological models or clinical settings.
Link to the study: https://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/12/3/113
