Latest Research Overview on Plant Extracts in Skincare Products (2024-2025)
Latest Research Overview on Plant Extracts in Skincare Products (2024-2025)
In recent years, driven by growing consumer preference for "natural, safe, and sustainable" skincare, plant extracts have become a major research focus in the cosmetics industry. Multiple systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical trials published in 2024-2025 demonstrate significant efficacy in anti-aging, moisturizing, whitening, barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, with high safety profiles and low incidence of adverse reactions. Key advances based on the latest authoritative studies from 2024-2025 are summarized below.
1. Breakthroughs in Anti-Aging
2025 Meta-Analysis (Cheng et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology):
A systematic review of RCTs from 2000-2024 showed that topical skincare products containing plant extracts significantly improved skin elasticity (increased R5/R7 parameters), reduced melanin index and erythema, and enhanced hydration, with no significant impact on transepidermal water loss (TEWL). Excellent safety, with adverse event rates comparable to placebo.
2025 Review (Springer Nature):
Plant polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other compounds delay photoaging and intrinsic aging by scavenging free radicals, inhibiting MMP-1/2 (matrix metalloproteinases), and activating autophagy and AMPK pathways. Green tea extract, Pueraria mirifica extract, and others demonstrated rapid improvements in wrinkles, brightness, and skin thickness in clinical trials.
2025 Study on Officinal Plants (Cosmetics Journal): Fermented Lycium barbarum polysaccharides showed markedly enhanced antioxidant activity and skin penetration, inhibiting collagenase/elastase, making them suitable for anti-aging formulations.
2. Highlights in Other Efficacy Areas
Whitening and Pigmentation:
Plant extracts (e.g., Centella asiatica, licorice root, rose petals) achieve whitening by inhibiting tyrosinase and reducing melanin transfer. Studies from 2024-2025 emphasize multi-pathway synergy (e.g., niacinamide + plant extracts) to avoid irritation from traditional agents like kojic acid.
Anti-Inflammatory and Barrier Repair:
Aromatic essential oils (e.g., lavender, tea tree) and extracts excel in acne and sensitive skin care. Cutting-edge 2025 research shows novel nano-delivery systems improve essential oil bioavailability while reducing volatility and irritation.
Antioxidant and Photoprotection:
Flavonoids and phenolic acids provide auxiliary natural SPF protection. 2025 studies developed sustainable biomass-derived extracts for sunscreen and UV damage repair.
3. Extraction Technology and Sustainability Innovations
Green extraction techniques (e.g., supercritical CO₂, enzymatic fermentation, microwave-assisted) are in the spotlight, improving active compound yields while minimizing solvent pollution.
2025 Market Forecast: The global plant-based skincare market exceeded $40 billion in 2024, with a projected CAGR of 6.2% through 2030.
4. Safety and Limitations
RCTs indicate adverse reaction rates <5% for topical plant extracts, primarily mild irritation. Standardization issues (batch-to-batch variability) and potential allergens remain concerns. Larger, multi-center clinical trials are needed in the future.