Biological Activities Supporting Development of Cosmeceutical Skin Products from Wedelia Trilobata (L.) Hitch. Flower Extract

This study is the first to explore the potential of Wedelia trilobata flower extract (WTF) as an ingredient in cosmeceutical products. The research found that WTF exhibits significant antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, antimicrobial, cytoprotective, and anti-inflammatory activities. Specifically, WTF at concentrations of 50-200 µg/mL effectively down-regulated inflammatory gene expression in macrophages and keratinocytes, demonstrated antimicrobial effects against various bacteria and Candida albicans, and protected human keratinocytes from H2O2-induced cell death by modulating gene expression related to matrix metalloproteinases and procollagen. Gel formulations containing WTF showed good stability and effectively inhibited Propionibacterium acnes growth. These findings suggest that W. trilobata flowers could be a valuable active ingredient in the development of skin care products.