Progress in Research on Photoaging and Barrier Function Damage

Abstract

Research on photoaging and barrier dysfunction holds significant implications for cutaneous health. Ultraviolet radiation stands as the principal pathogenic factor in photoaging, inducing oxidative stress, DNA damage, and extracellular matrix degradation. Environmental aggressors, inappropriate skincare practices, and underlying systemic pathologies compromise epidermal barrier integrity. Emerging evidence elucidates autophagy's regulatory role in photoaging pathogenesis. Current therapeutic innovations demonstrate promising potential, with novel modalities including nanotechnology-driven delivery systems, stem cell therapies, and exosome-based interventions showing efficacy in combating photoaging and barrier restoration. Conventional approaches such as retinoid derivatives, laser photothermolysis, and radiofrequency technologies remain clinically validated for photoaged skin rehabilitation. These multimodal strategies offer promising alternatives for clinical management. Future investigations should prioritize elucidating the complex interplay among multiple pathogenic determinants and their synergistic effects on cutaneous aging processes.