Aloe Kanti, a natural anti-aging gel, modulates exogenous insult- and aging-induced aberrations in keratinocytes, dermal fibroblasts, melanocytes, and protects Caenorhabditis elegans from UVB photoaging.

Chronological aging, exposure to ultraviolet radiation, and various environmental insults deteriorate structure and function of skin. Lack of proper skincare further augments skin aging and related disorders. The objective of current study was to investigate phytochemical composition and bioactivity of Aloe Kanti (Aloe K), an Aloe vera-based topical herbal skincare gel formulation. Chemical characterization of Aloe K was performed using UHPLC, GC-FID, UPLC/MS-QToF, and HPTLC analytical platforms. To decipher the molecular mechanisms of Aloe K, HaCaT, HDFa, and B16F10 cells were used as in vitro model. Additionally, photoaged (UVB-exposed) N2, TP12, and CF1553 strains of Caenorhabditis elegans were used as in vivo models. In HaCaT cell, Aloe K treatment significantly increased levels of GSH, catalase, SOD; and decreased release of IL-6, IL-8 cytokines. A decrease in activity of TNF-α, NF-κB, IL-1β, IFN-γ was also observed in the reporter cells. Compared to control, Aloe K treatment enhance migration of keratinocytes by 24.4 %, displayed a 43.6 % inhibition of AGEs formation, and enhanced collagen production in HDFa cells by 27.8 %. Further, in melanocytes, Aloe K significantly decreased enzyme activity of Tyrosinase and TRP2; and melanin biosynthesis. Additionally, Aloe K treatment decreased molecular markers of aging (SA-β-gal, ΔΨm) in HDFa cells. Anti-oxidant and anti-aging properties of Aloe K was also reflected in photoaged C. elegans. Aloe K treatment also modulated genes involved in cell proliferation, collagen production, and aging. Collectively, Aloe Kanti assimilates several molecular responses to act against signs of skin aging and could impart enhanced skin health.