Pterostilbene Cream: A Promising Natural Breakthrough in Skin Science
Scientists have been searching for natural compounds that match retinoid effectiveness in skin rejuvenation. The 2025 clinical study published in the Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology shows that pterostilbene cream, with its resveratrol connection, could become the long-sought solution.
The 0.1% pterostilbene cream treatment over 28 days led to significant improvements in skin firmness and elasticity, wrinkle depth, and pore size, surpassing the control cream in all measured areas.
What Is Pterostilbene?
The natural antioxidant pterostilbene (pronounced tero-STILL-been) is found mainly in blueberries and Pterocarpus marsupium (Indian kino tree). The compound shares a similar structure to resveratrol but demonstrates better skin penetration and resistance to oxidation.
Research on pterostilbene in cell and animal studies demonstrates its ability to reduce inflammation and protect collagen, while also showing antioxidant properties, making it suitable for topical anti-aging applications.
Study Overview: 28 Days, Double-Blind, Split-Face Design
The researchers in Guangzhou, China, conducted a double-blind split-face trial with 31 participants to evaluate the practical effects of pterostilbene. The researchers applied a 0.1% pterostilbene emulsion to one facial side of each participant while using a control cream on their opposing facial side.
The researchers employed sophisticated imaging technology together with participant feedback to measure multiple skin parameters.
The study evaluated three main skin parameters through participant assessments and advanced imaging techniques.
- Increased skin firmness and elasticity
- Thicker epidermis and enhanced collagen fibers
- Visible wrinkle reduction (forehead, undereye, crow’s feet)
- Smaller pores and smoother skin texture
All participants reported greater satisfaction with the pterostilbene cream, confirming that the visible results matched the instrument-measured improvements.
“The pterostilbene emulsion remarkably improved skin elasticity, firmness, and reduced wrinkles… It also increased the thickness of the epidermis and minimized pores,”
Zhiyuan Chen, co-author and founder of Guangzhou Luanying Cosmetics Co., Ltd.
Why Pterostilbene Cream Could Transform the Future of Anti-Aging Care
Human trials have shown that most natural antioxidants fail to produce any measurable anti-aging benefits. The study represents a breakthrough because it demonstrates that botanical compounds, including pterostilbene, can produce pharmaceutical-grade results that unite natural and pharmaceutical skincare approaches.
The study’s corresponding author, Dr. Xueping Chen, stated that the research demonstrates pterostilbene’s strong anti-aging properties, making it suitable for cosmetic formulations. The research enables developers to create new skincare products that deliver effective results while being gentle on the skin.
Explore More Science-Backed Skincare
If you’re interested in how other evidence-based ingredients support youthful, resilient skin, you’ll love our deep dive on Science-Backed Skincare Ingredients That Actually Work. It features dermatologist-approved compounds such as retinol, niacinamide, peptides, and antioxidants that complement pterostilbene’s collagen-boosting effects.
Whats Next
The researchers propose an extended study to validate enduring benefits and examine how pterostilbene interacts with other actives such as niacinamide, peptides, and retinoids.
Additional studies confirming these results will establish pterostilbene as a proven anti-aging compound, potentially replacing retinol as a gentle alternative for people seeking effective results.
Further Reading
Cen, Z., Chen, Z., Wang, D., Zuo, Y., Chen, J., & Chen, X. (2025). Anti-aging efficacy of a 0.1% pterostilbene skincare emulsion: A 28-day clinical trial. Journal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology, 2(2), 100083. DOI:10.1016/j.jdsct.2025.100083
