COSMECEUTICALS: A CRITICAL REVIEW ON THERAPEUTIC SKINCARE HYBRIDS, RECENT ADVANCEMENTS, AND REGULATORY PARADIGMS

Cosmeceuticals represent the fastest-growing sector of the personal care industry, serving as a functional bridge between traditional cosmetics and topical therapeutics. Unlike standard cosmetics that merely alter surface appearance, cosmeceuticals incorporate biologically active substances that influence skin physiology and repair pathways. This review extensively examines the pharmacological mechanisms, classifications, and novel delivery systems that define modern cosmeceuticals. We analyze prominent ingredient categories including retinoids, botanical antioxidants, vitamins, and bioactive peptides, focusing on their roles in neutralizing reactive oxygen species, synthesizing dermal extracellular matrix, and suppressing hyperpigmentation. Additionally, the integration of advanced drug delivery mechanisms such as solid lipid nanoparticles, liposomes, and nanoemulsions is discussed as a crucial strategy for overcoming the stratum corneum barrier. Finally, we highlight the persistent challenges in international regulatory frameworks, safety screening, and clinical efficacy validation. This paper provides a comprehensive, evidence-based assessment intended to guide the engineering of next-generation, scientifically proven therapeutic skincare formulations.