Abstract

Skin aging induced by ultraviolet (UV) B (UV-B) radiation is marked by decreased glutathione (GSH) levels, increased tyrosinase activity, and elevated melanin synthesis, leading to hyperpigmentation. Although 4% hydroquinone (HQ) is widely used as the standard treatment due to its high efficacy, it poses significant risks of side effects. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of Passiflora edulis fruit extract cream as a natural alternative with minimal adverse effects. We employed a comprehensive approach combining in vitro assays, a UV-B–induced hyperpigmentation model in C57BL/6 mice, and computational analyses to evaluate the efficacy of the P. edulis fruit extract. The results showed that the extract exhibited weak anti-tyrosinase activity, moderate antioxidant capacity, and low SPF protection in vitro. In vivo, the P. edulis cream significantly increased GSH levels and reduced melanin content (p < 0.05) more effectively than HQ, and similarly decreased tyrosinase activity (p < 0.05). Computational predictions indicated that major bioactive compounds were safe and exhibited comparable or superior binding affinities to tyrosinase compared to HQ. In summary, P. edulis fruit extract cream showed promising anti-photoaging effects and may offer a complementary mechanism of action compared to HQ.

Key words: glutathione, hyperpigmentation, melanin, P. edulis, photoaging, tyrosinase