Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Oxidative stress (OxS) is a key pathological mechanism in many dermatologicand systemic disorders. As the largest and most exposed organ, the skinmirrors systemic redox imbalance and early signs of mitochondrial dysfunction,chronic inflammation, and immune dysregulation. This review examinesthe interplay between oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and impairedautophagy, highlighting their reflection in skin diseases and systemiccomorbidities. Conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, vitiligo, andchronic urticaria share oxidative and mitochondrial alterations that contributeto inflammation, premature aging, and cardiovascular or neurodegenerativerisk. In atopic dermatitis, mitochondrial hyperactivity and defective autophagyconnect barrier dysfunction with systemic vascular disease. The skin thusserves as a sentinel organ for redox imbalance. Evidence suggests that single,high-dose antioxidants may be ineffective or even pro-oxidant, while multi-antioxidant approaches—including vitamin D, folate, polyphenols, selenium,zinc, and magnesium—support mitochondrial resilience and immunebalance. Recognizing cutaneous oxidative stress as both a biomarker and driverof systemic disease underscores the value of integrative antioxidant strategiesfor preventing and managing dermatologic and age-related disorders.
Language: English
Subfield: Biochemistry
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7220005135
