Antrodia cinnamomea extract exhibits anti-melanogenic and anti-photoaging effects: potential for cosmetic and dermatological applications

Abstract Skin pigmentation and photoaging are major dermatological concerns, underscoring the need for safe and effective topical agents. Antrodia cinnamomea , a medicinal mushroom native to Taiwan, is well known for its hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, and metabolic benefits; however, its anti-melanogenic and anti-photoaging potential remains insufficiently characterized. In this study, we demonstrate that A. cinnamomea ethanol extract (AC-EtOH) suppresses melanin production and tyrosinase activity in α-MSH–stimulated B16F10 melanocytes by downregulating the mRNA expression of tyrosinase, TRP-1, TRP-2, and microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF). AC-EtOH also inhibits α-MSH–activated PKA/cAMP/CREB signaling, further contributing to melanogenesis suppression. In skin fibroblasts, AC-EtOH protects against UV-induced photoaging by reducing the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and attenuating the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP1 and MMP3) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and IL-6). To improve its suitability for cosmetic formulations, polyethylene glycol (PG)—a widely used solvent—was employed to generate an A. cinnamomea extract–PG mixture (AC-PG). AC-PG retained the biological efficacy of AC-EtOH, reducing melanin production and tyrosinase activity in α-MSH–induced cells, while exhibiting low sensitization and irritation potential, as per OECD Test Guidelines 439, 492, and 442E. Collectively, these findings identify AC-EtOH as a promising natural ingredient with potent anti-melanogenic and anti-photoaging activities, supporting its potential application in cosmetic and dermatological products for skin whitening, anti-wrinkle, and anti-photoaging purposes.