Aqueous and polyphenol-rich Larrea divaricata Cav. extracts as potential skin care agents

Abstract

Skin cells are affected by UV-induced oxidative stress resulting in photoaging and diseases. The objective of this work was to assess the effect of an aqueous extract of Larrea divaricata (Aq) and a flavonoid rich fraction (EA), obtained by liquid/liquid fractionation, on the proliferation of keratinocytes and fibroblasts by the tritiated thymidine uptake assay and on cell viability by the trypan blue exclusion assay. The in vitro sun protection factor (SPF), peroxidase (Px)-like and superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activities were determined by kinetic spectrophotometric assays, and the phytochemical composition was determined by HPLC-UV and HPLC MS/MS. Aq and EA induced keratinocytes and fibroblast proliferation, protected fibroblasts from H2O2-induced apoptosis and exerted SOD-like and Px-like activities. Aq and EA had a high sun UVB protection factor. So, L. divaricata could be used in a future for the development of new dermocosmetic or phytotherapy adjuvant in skin oxidative damage.