Dermatological Application of <i>Pelargonium graveolens </i>Flower: A Novel Potential Source of Melanin Synthesis-Inhibiting Effects

The increasing prevalence of skin-aging and pigmentation disorders, along with inflammation-related pathologies, has driven the search for novel enzyme inhibitors with targeted action against key enzymes such as elastase, collagenase, and tyrosinase. In this context, extracts from Pelargonium graveolens (P. graveolens) flowers were subjected to in vitro and in silico assays to evaluate their inhibitory effects on theses enzymes, as well as the BSA protein denaturation. Additional assessments of emulsification and photoprotective properties were conducted. The hydroethanolic sonication extract demonstrated potent therapeutic potential, with low IC50 values for BSA denaturation (0.31 ± 0.26 mg/mL), tyrosinase (0.06 ± 0.04 mg/mL), elastase (1.29 ± 0.58 mg/mL), and collagenase (0.28 ± 0.14 mg/mL). All extracts effectively reduced surface and interfacial tension, highlighting their potential as natural co-emulsifier. HPLC-PDA-MS/MS analysis identified key bioactive compounds, including shikimic acid, gallic acid diglucoside, and salvianolic acid M. In fact, Binding site prediction revealed that shikimic acid and dihydroxybenzoic acid from P. graveolens extract are likely the key compounds responsible for the inhibitory effects on elastase, collagenase, and tyrosinase. Additionally, trigallic acid appears to play a major role in the inhibition of BSA denaturation. Stability tests of novel formulations-based 2% P. graveolens supporting their potential for commercial applications.