GUANGZHOU, CHINA – July 28,2025
A natural compound known as pterostilbene is making waves in the anti-aging community following a groundbreaking clinical study that demonstrated remarkable improvements in signs of aging in human skin in a mere 28 days. The findings, published this week in the Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology, suggest that this powerful antioxidant, found naturally in blueberries and grapes, could revolutionize anti-aging skincare.
The study, conducted by a team of Chinese researchers and led by co-authors Zhiyuan Chen, Founder of Guangzhou Luanying Cosmetics Co., Ltd., and Xueping Chen, investigated the efficacy of a 0.1% pterostilbene-containing skincare emulsion compared to a control. Using a double-blind, split-face design with 31 participants, the researchers meticulously assessed the skin’s left and right sides, employing advanced instruments alongside self-assessments from the subjects.
The results were compelling. “Our results indicated that the pterostilbene emulsion remarkably improved skin elasticity, firmness, and reduced wrinkles, such as forehead, undereye, and Crow’s feet wrinkles,” shared Zhiyuan Chen. Beyond visible improvements, the study also revealed deeper biological changes, including an increase in the thickness of the epidermis layer, enhanced collagen and elastic fibers, and minimized skin pores.
Compared to the control emulsion, the pterostilbene emulsion showed statistically significant improvements across all measured parameters. Furthermore, all subjects reported higher satisfaction with the pterostilbene formulation, underscoring its tangible benefits.
Pterostilbene (pronounced tear-oh-STILL-bean) is a polyphenol, a type of molecule found in plants, particularly abundant in blueberries, as well as in smaller amounts in grapes and peanuts. It is chemically similar to resveratrol, the compound famously associated with red wine, but with a structural difference that allows it to be more bioavailable and stay in the body longer.
This natural compound is believed to exert its anti-aging effects through multiple mechanisms. It acts as a potent antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals that contribute to cellular damage and accelerated aging. Research suggests it can also activate sirtuins, enzymes that play a crucial role in DNA repair and metabolism, and promote autophagy, the cellular process of clearing waste.
“These results collectively demonstrated the superior anti-aging efficacy of the pterostilbene emulsion through multiple mechanisms,” noted Xueping Chen. “The findings advance our understanding of pterostilbene’s role in skincare by providing evidence of its potent anti-ageing effects and supporting its use as an active ingredient in cosmetics.”
The study offers a new perspective on the application of natural compounds in the skincare industry, potentially paving the way for more effective and naturally derived anti-aging formulations. While more extensive research may follow, the rapid and significant improvements observed in just 28 days position pterostilbene as a promising new frontier in the quest for youthful skin.
