Role of Major Bioactive Compounds in the Treatment of Anti-aging and Skincare: A Review

Abstract

Medicinal herbs and herbal formulations have garnered increasing attention in skincare and anti-aging due to their versatility, safety, and potential effectiveness. Korean medicinal herbs and herbal formulations have a rich history in traditional Asian medicine, and they are increasingly gaining recognition as anti-aging and skincare treatments. Korean herbal medicine, known as Hanbang, draws from various natural ingredients, like ginseng, green tea, and licorice, to create herbal formulations passed down for centuries. These formulations are recognized for their potential to promote healthy, youthful skin. Ingredients such as ginseng and green tea possess antioxidant properties that combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress on the skin, preventing premature aging. Korean skincare treatments often incorporate these herbal formulations, emphasizing natural ingredients and techniques such as herbal masks, teas, and acupuncture to enhance skin vitality and combat aging signs. Understanding the role of major bioactive compounds in Korean herbal medicine is essential for bridging traditional practices with modern dermatological science. Because of the increasing global demand for natural, effective, and safe skincare products, it is increasingly important for natural agents' mechanisms, efficacy, and commercial value to be systematically evaluated and documented. This review aims at fulfilling this knowledge gap as well as providing directions for future research and product development. Considering all the beneficial effects of Korean medicinal herbs, the current review discusses major bioactive compounds present in these herbs and formulations used in anti-aging and skincare treatments, along with their extraction procedure, commercialization, and patents. The review highlights the potential benefits of Korean herbal medicine in promoting youthful, radiant skin through natural and time-honored practices.