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.
The study explores the anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties of Lactobacillus- and kombucha-fermented extracts from Cucurbita pepo L. peel and pulp, focusing on their application in skincare products. Fermentation enhances the extracts' antioxidant capacity, bioactive compound content, and ability to reduce intracellular reactive oxygen species in skin cells. The extracts show significant inhibition of enzymes linked to skin aging and reduce pro-inflammatory cytokines in fibroblasts. A prototype skin toner developed with these extracts demonstrated promising cytoprotective activity, suggesting their potential as valuable ingredients in cosmetic formulations for skin protection and anti-aging benefits.
