Cosmetic Formulation Based on an Açai Extract

Roberta Censi,Maria Sabbieti,Dolores Vargas Peregrina,Giovanna Lacava,Piera Di Martino,Giulio Lupidi,Dimitrios Agas

doi:10.3390/cosmetics5030048

Abstract

(1) Background: Açai berry extract is known for its high content in polyphenols and thus is a promising ingredient for cosmetic antiaging formulations; (2) Methods: In this study, the açai extract was firstly evaluated for its total phenol content (Folin Ciocalteau essay) and antioxidant activity (radical scavenging activity—DPPH; radical cation scavenging capacity—ABTS; ferric reducing antioxidant capacity—FRAP). Next, the açai extract was included in an O/W formulation and again was evaluated for its polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity. The formulation was tested for general characteristics, physicochemical properties and microbial stability. The proliferative effect on human immortalized fibroblasts was evaluated by the MTT essay, while TAC assay served to confirm that fibroblasts are protected from UV irradiation. The irritant potential was verified on 20 volunteers. The study concluded with the assessment of the sensorial characteristics of the cosmetic formulation; (3) Results: The pure açai extract exhibited high polyphenol content and antioxidant activity, and these characteristics were preserved in the O/W formulation as well. The O/W cosmetic formulation proved to be stable under accelerated and normal conditions, and the preservatives were successful in challenging the resistance against microbial contamination. The mean irritant potential was zero in all volunteers, and the cosmetic formulation showed a good sensorial profile; (4) Conclusions: Açai extract is an interesting ingredient for cosmetic antiaging formulations.

Highlights

The açai berry is the fruit of a palm tree (Euterpe oleracea) from the Amazon forest in Brazil
Considerable interest has focused on the açai's high antioxidant capacity, which has attributed to its polyphenolic compounds [2,3], over 90% of which are anthocyanins [4]
Taking into account the antioxidant and photoprotective properties of açai fruit, the objective of this study was the formulation of an O/W emulsion with UV protective and antiaging properties

Summary

Introduction

The açai berry is the fruit of a palm tree (Euterpe oleracea) from the Amazon forest in Brazil. It is largely consumed in Brazil as food, but because of its properties, interest in it has expanded worldwide [1]. Considerable interest has focused on the açai's high antioxidant capacity, which has attributed to its polyphenolic compounds [2,3], over 90% of which are anthocyanins [4]. Taking into account the antioxidant and photoprotective properties of açai fruit, the objective of this study was the formulation of an O/W emulsion with UV protective and antiaging properties. The objective was to formulate an emulsion containing an açai berry extract with good sensorial characteristics and appropriate properties for cosmetic use. The emulsion was evaluated for its physicochemical and microbial stability, antioxidant properties, and sensorial characteristics

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusion