Dermatoprotective Potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa L.: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidence

Inflammatory and degenerative skin disorders are associated with persistent inflammation, oxidative stress, tissue dysfunction, and impaired wound healing. This systematic review synthesized preclinical evidence on the biological effects and molecular mechanisms of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. in inflammatory and degenerative skin disorders and was prospectively registered in PROSPERO (CRD420251013303). Eligible studies were original, peer-reviewed in vitro or in vivo investigations evaluating H. sabdariffa L. extracts, formulations, or isolated bioactive compounds and relevant dermatological outcomes; non-original publications, human studies, other Hibiscus species, and studies without appropriate controls were excluded. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase were searched on 24 March 2025. Study selection, data extraction, and risk-of-bias assessment were performed independently by two reviewers, with methodological quality assessed using the SYRCLE Risk of Bias tool supplemented with criteria relevant to preclinical phytopharmacological research. Sixteen studies were included: nine in vitro, six in vivo, and one combined study. Because of substantial heterogeneity, results were synthesized narratively using mechanistic mapping and comparative assessment rather than meta-analysis. Anti-inflammatory effects were reported in 13 studies (81.3%), antioxidant effects in 12 (75.0%), and wound-healing/tissue-regenerative effects in 9 (56.3%); anti-fibrotic/photoaging effects occurred in 7 (43.8%), and anti-melanogenic activity in 4 (25.0%). Heterogeneity and methodological limitations restrict direct comparison and condition-specific conclusions. These findings indicate dermatoprotective potential, but standardized preclinical and clinical studies are warranted. Funding was provided by the Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de Minas Gerais (FAPEMIG), the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES), and the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq).