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Review
. 2025 Aug 20;26(16):8061.
doi: 10.3390/ijms26168061.

The Natural Defense: Anti-Aging Potential of Plant-Derived Substances and Technological Solutions Against Photoaging

Martyna Nowak-Perlak  1 , Marta Olszowy  1 , Marta Woźniak  1
Affiliations
Review

The Natural Defense: Anti-Aging Potential of Plant-Derived Substances and Technological Solutions Against Photoaging

Martyna Nowak-Perlak et al. Int J Mol Sci. .

Abstract

Photoaging is a multifactorial and progressive skin aging process primarily triggered by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This condition leads to both structural and functional impairments in the skin, including the formation of wrinkles, loss of elasticity, pigmentation irregularities, and an elevated risk of skin malignancies. At the core of photoaging is the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which generate oxidative stress, initiate chronic inflammation, cause DNA damage, and accelerate the breakdown of the extracellular matrix-largely through the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The review provides a comprehensive analysis of various natural substances, including antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, photoprotective compounds, and emerging regenerative treatments, based on in vitro and in vivo research. Special emphasis is placed on natural substances, including polyphenols, cannabinoids, carotenoids, retinoids, and vitamins, highlighting their potential in preventing and treating photoaging. This review aims to present a detailed, evidence-based overview of photoaging mechanisms and innovative approaches to mitigate its effects.

Keywords: anti-aging; photoaging; plant compounds.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Natural bioactive compounds in photoaging prevention and treatment.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chemical structures of the compounds.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Chemical structures of the compounds.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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