Anti-Aging, Anti-Inflammatory, and Cytoprotective Properties of Lactobacillus- and Kombucha-Fermented Cucurbita Pepo L. Peel and Pulp Extracts with Prototype Skin Toner Development
October 2025
in “
Molecules
”
Lactobacillus kombucha Cucurbita pepo L. pumpkin peel extract pumpkin pulp extract phytochemical composition antioxidant capacity cytoprotective effects collagenase inhibition cytokine levels skin toner anti-aging anti-inflammatory skin regeneration pumpkin extract antioxidants skin protection skin care
TLDR Fermented pumpkin extracts can be effective for anti-aging and skin protection.
This study explored the cosmetic benefits of fermented pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) peel and pulp extracts using Lactobacillus strains and kombucha. The fermentation process enhanced the extracts' phytochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, and cytoprotective effects on skin cells. Both kombucha and certain Lactobacillus ferments exhibited anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting enzymes like collagenase and affecting cytokine levels. A skin toner developed with these extracts showed promising cytoprotective effects, suggesting that fermented pumpkin extracts could serve as effective multifunctional cosmetic ingredients for antioxidant protection, anti-aging, and skin regeneration.
