In an 84-day study of 20 people, amla branch extract at 0.1% concentration improved skin elasticity, hydration, and wrinkle appearance while also lightening skin tone. The extract works by fighting free radicals, blocking the enzyme that triggers melanin production, and protecting collagen-breaking enzymes in skin.

Researchers tested amla branch extract in lab conditions first to measure antioxidant and pigment-blocking activity, then made it into a gel and tested it on real skin for safety. A small group of 20 volunteers used the gel or placebo daily for 12 weeks while their skin was measured with clinical devices.

Funding not disclosed in abstract