Potential Cosmetic Applications of Dihydroartemisinin
January 2026
in “
Molecules
”
TLDR Dihydroartemisinin could be a versatile cosmetic ingredient but needs more research and development.
Dihydroartemisinin (DHA) shows significant potential as a multifunctional cosmetic ingredient due to its diverse biological activities, including anti-aging, anti-hair loss, antibacterial, whitening, and anti-glycation effects. The study highlights DHA's ability to promote collagen synthesis, modulate VEGF and DKK1 expression for hair health, and inhibit melanin synthesis and glycation reactions. Despite its promise, challenges such as unclear molecular mechanisms, formulation issues, and regulatory compliance need addressing. The study, which did not involve human or animal participants, emphasizes the need for further research to optimize DHA's use in cosmetics.