Abstract
Macroalgae are widespread on the coasts of all the globe and lead to a negative ecological impact, requiring expensive remediations. Therefore, the valorization of invasive seaweed as a renewable source of bioactive products could represent a valid solution. In this context, three algal biomasses, belonging to brown, green, and red families (Sargassum muticum, Ulva lactuca, Solieria filiformis), collected in the venetian Laguna, were investigated as a source of active compounds for the formulation of cosmeceutics. Microwave (MW) and ultrasound (US) were applied to enhance the algae extraction by means of a hydroalcoholic solution. According to total phenolic content (TPC) evaluation, MW demonstrated the best performing outcomes, resulting in 19.77, 22.02, and 16.94 mgGAE/gExtr (30 min at 90 °C) for brown, green, and red algae, respectively. Antioxidant activity was tested as well, showing comparable trends (49.19, 26.24, and 3.02 mmolTrolox eq./gExtr for brown, green, and red algae, respectively). Due to natural algae predisposition to absorb contaminants, the metal content analysis helped to screen the applicability of these extracts, identifying Ulva lactuca as the most suitable source of antioxidants for cosmetic formulations. This MW extract was then adopted to formulate two different preparations, namely a gel and an emulsion. Thermal and mechanical tests confirmed the stability of each formulation, together with neutral organoleptic characteristics. Finally, the actives release was investigated by means of a tape stripping essay, showing an efficient controlled release for gel formulation, even after 7 h of test. The produced cosmeceutics merged non-conventional extraction technologies with formulation expertise, offering a valuable alternative to solve the macroalgae disposal issue.
Highlights
Macroalgae are widely distributed on the coasts of all the continents and have negative ecological and economic impacts in the aquaculture and tourism industries, requiring their removal by governmental agencies
More efficient and environmentally friendly techniques have been pursued in recent years, such as, for example, Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) and Ultrasound-Assisted
Sustainable ultrasound- and microwave-assisted processes were designed in order to maximize the yields in polyphenols, which were used as antioxidant natural ingredients in dermo-cosmetic, anti-age formulations
Summary
Macroalgae are widely distributed on the coasts of all the continents and have negative ecological and economic impacts in the aquaculture and tourism industries, requiring their removal by governmental agencies. Long extraction times are required to achieve good yields, with the consequent possible degradation and the loss of bioactive compounds These processes are usually high-energy demanding and costly for industrial applications, and involve the use of large volumes of toxic organic solvents. Owing to these limitations, more efficient and environmentally friendly techniques have been pursued in recent years, such as, for example, Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE) and Ultrasound-Assisted. The use of non-conventional extraction methods is not unknown in the context of algae valorization, the further direct application of the extracts obtained in a skin anti-age stable formulation is still underexplored In this context, the shortening of the supply chain by using local raw materials is a key factor. Sustainable ultrasound- and microwave-assisted processes were designed in order to maximize the yields in polyphenols, which were used as antioxidant natural ingredients in dermo-cosmetic, anti-age formulations
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
