The invention relates to substances which are capable of protecting FGF-2, to a composition for preventing or controlling degradation of FGF-2, and a method of protecting FGF-2 in the skin from degradation.In particular, the invention relates to an extract of Hibiscus Abelmoschus or ambrette, a rebokza extract, a gougizi berry extract, a banha extract, a lessonia extract, a mustard flour extract, a wooyin extract, a barley extract, and/or a sesame extract, in amounts effective to protect FGF-2 from its degradation.Further, the present invention allows the extracellular matrix to be restructured, particularly at the dermis, which is useful, for example, for controlling aging.
