The use of Carpobrotus edulis (C. edulis) is beneficial for skin care and the management of skin problems.

A study investigated skin healing properties of C. edulis aqueous leaf extract in the enzymatic assays and in the cell cultures.

With the aid of light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, the micro-morphological assessment of leaves was performed. The phytochemical features and antioxidant effect of C. edulis aqueous leaf extract were determined by RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS (reversed-phase liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detection and electrospray ion trap mass spectrometry) and the in vitro cell-free assays. With the aid of keratinocytes, fibroblasts, hyaluronidase, elastase, and collagenase, an evaluation of biological activities was done.

C. edulis aqueous leaf extract illustrated flavonoids ([545.9 ± 26.0] g rutin equivalents/kg dry extract), high carbohydrates (28.59% ± 0.68%), and total phenols ([101.9 ± 6.0] g gallic acid equivalents/kg dry extract). As per RP-LC-DAD-ESI-MS, hydroxycinnamic acids (51.96%), followed by tannins (14.82%) and flavonols (11.32%) were predominantly present.

The extract was not cytotoxic. Moreover, it exhibited a dose-dependent and strong antioxidant effect.  The extract was found to suppress hyaluronidase (100% at 1000 µg/mL) and collagenase (> 90% at 500 µg/mL). In the cell culture experiments, C. edulis aqueous leaf extract raised wound closure and production of collagen, which was consistent with its elevated polyphenol content.

C. edulis has significant antioxidant properties that make it suitable to be used in the preparation of topical formulations with antiaging and cicatrizing properties. Its use for skincare purposes can be an eco-friendly solution to minimize its invasiveness in the environment.