Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum) Extract as a Potential Anti-Photoaging Agent: A Literature Review

Abstract

Tropical countries worldwide are frequently subjected to high levels of sunlight year-round. This leads to concerns about potential harmful effects, including skin damage resulting from oxidative stress caused by free radicals due to prolonged sun exposure. This results in extrinsic skin aging, or photoaging. Sunscreen, as a primary photoprotection, is commonly recommended to protect the skin from sunlight. However, even sunscreens with high SPF cannot provide 100% protection from damage caused by free radicals generated by UV rays. Therefore, secondary photoprotection such as natural antioxidants are needed. Goji berry is a natural antioxidant known as a superfruit because it contains many compounds with high antioxidant activity, such as lycium barbarum polysaccharides, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenols. The antioxidant compounds in goji berries can act as scavengers or neutralize excess free radicals on the skin, and they can also stimulate the production of endogenous antioxidants in the skin to prevent oxidative damage caused by sunlight. This literature review utilized electronic databases on Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, and SpringerLink using the keyword "Goji Berry”, “Lycium barbarum”, “Photoaging”, “Skin Aging” and “Photoprotection”. We found six studies on the treatment using goji berry extract related to skin aging caused by UV radiation (photoaging). In conclusion, the studies suggest that goji berry extract has great potential as an antioxidant in combating photoaging. Further research is needed to determine the best method of administration and the optimal dosage as an anti-photoaging agent.