Oral administration of pomegranate juice enhances antioxidant defense and reduces tyrosinase activity in mouse skin

Abstract

Pomegranate juice, which is rich in polyphenols and ellagitannins, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The potential skin-protective effects of these polyphenols have garnered increasing attention in dermatological research. Therefore, we investigated the effects of its oral intake on skin health in mice. Mice were orally administered pomegranate juice for 14 d, and skin biochemical parameters were subsequently analyzed. Pomegranate juice intake significantly reduced skin tyrosinase activity and pro-inflammatory cytokine levels. In addition, the activities of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase and glutathione peroxidase, significantly increased in the skin. Total phenolic content in the skin was significantly elevated. Targeted mass spectrometric analysis revealed significant increases in ellagic acid and gallic acid in the skin. Overall, these findings suggest that oral pomegranate juice intake supports the maintenance of skin homeostasis by modulating melanogenic, inflammatory, and oxidative pathways. This study could facilitate the use of pomegranate-derived compounds in functional foods aimed at promoting skin health.