Evaluation of saffron extract bioactivities relevant to skin resilience

Introduction: Saffron, Crocus sativus L, is a perennial spice herb. It has been extensively studied for its antioxidant, antidepressant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and has recently gained new interest for use in high-end cosmetics. The present work aims to elucidate the skin-protective properties of saffron in human dermal fibroblasts. Methods: The skin-protective properties of saffron extract were evaluated in terms of tyrosinase and collagenase inhibition activities, antioxidant activity in mouse macrophage cells, collagen synthesis and hyaluronic acid synthesis and cell migration activity in primary dermal fibroblast normal human neonatal cells (HDFn).Results: Saffron's main phytoactive constituents -crocins, picrocrocin, safranal, and crocetin -were quantified by LC-MS at 91.0, 61.5, 3.6, and 1.9 mg/g, respectively. Saffron extract inhibited tyrosinase and collagenase with IC50 0.78 mg/mL and 0.1 mg/mL, respectively. Saffron extracts (100-200 mu g/mg) suppressed reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide generation in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 murine macrophage cells and promoted collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis in HDFn. Saffron extract at 25 mu g/mg significantly promoted migration of HDFn cells (wound healing capacity) compared to control (no treatment).Conclusion: The findings highlighted the potential benefits of saffron extract relevant to skin resilience.

Automated summary

This study aimed to investigate the skin-protective properties of saffron in human dermal fibroblasts. The results showed that saffron extract exhibited tyrosinase and collagenase inhibition activities, antioxidant activity, and promoted collagen and hyaluronic acid synthesis. Additionally, saffron extract also enhanced cell migration activity, indicating potential benefits for skin resilience.