Liposomal Delivery of Mangosteen Pericarp Extracts for Enhanced Anti-Aging Activity

Objective: This study aimed to characterize bioactive compounds in mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.) pericarp extracts, evaluate their anti-aging–related biological activities, and investigate the potential of liposomal delivery systems for topical applications.Materials and Methods: Crude ethanolic extract and α-mangostin-rich extract were prepared and analyzed for α-mangostin content, total phenolics, and tannins. In vitro antioxidant, anti-tyrosinase, and sunscreen activities were assessed. Liposomal formulations containing the selected extract were prepared and characterized for particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency. The optimized formulation was incorporated into a lotion base and evaluated for anti-aging activity.Results: The crude extract (17.8% α-mangostin) and α-mangostin-rich extract (78.7% α-mangostin) exhibited distinct activity profiles. The α-mangostin-rich extract showed stronger tyrosinase inhibition and greater sunscreen activity but lower antioxidant capacity compared to the crude extract. The optimized liposomal formulation, composed of α-mangostin-rich extract, phosphatidylcholine, and Tween 80 (1:3:0.6, w/w), produced vesicles with a mean particle size of 306.83 ± 1.50 nm, PDI of 0.27 ± 0.01, zeta potential of −38.50 ± 2.49 mV, and entrapment efficiency of 77.6 ± 0.1%. Incorporation of extract-loaded liposomes into lotion significantly enhanced anti‑tyrosinase and sunscreen activities compared with the non-encapsulated extract.Conclusion: α-Mangostin–rich extract demonstrates promising multifunctional anti-aging properties. Liposomal encapsulation improves physicochemical properties and biological activities, supporting its potential application in advanced cosmeceutical formulations.