The Application Prospects of Honokiol in Dermatology

Honokiol, a bioactive ingredient from Magnolia plants, has shown potential therapeutic effects in various skin diseases, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-oxidation, and anti-bacterial properties. It has been effective against bacteria and fungi, and has shown significant anti-neoplastic effects in cancers, including melanoma. It has also demonstrated therapeutic effects on skin immune diseases like psoriasis, vitiligo, lupus, and skin fibrosis. Additionally, honokiol has been found to promote hair growth in mice by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and downregulating TGF-β1. Despite its low oral bioavailability, honokiol is suitable for topical or transdermal delivery due to its small molecular weight and high lipophilicity. A study involving 20 volunteers found a 1% honokiol cream to be non-irritating and well-tolerated, but at a 5% concentration, skin irritation was recorded in three volunteers. More research is needed to determine the best and safest method for external application of honokiol.