Cosmetic Formulations Research Articles

Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Serum

In daily life, there is a rising demand for cosmetics and are used by a large number of individuals annually. Humanity employs a variety of goods to accentuate elegance and attractiveness in order to appear youthful and endearing. Therefore, cosmetics are essential to human survival. Because of the perception that herbal cosmetics are safer and have fewer adverse effects, they are utilized extensively these days. One of the main bodily components that serve as a protective appendage is hair. The spreadability test and stability test results were all assessed. It was the development of a daily-use herbal hair serum is the main objective of this study. To achieve this, a range of herbs will be employed, and the ideal formulation will be determined by evaluating the cosmetic serum’s qualities. Three different cosmetic serum formulations (H1, H2, and H3) with different excipient concentrations have been developed. Physical properties, pH, homogeneity test, and viscosity ensured that every parameter fulfilled the norms and was in good condition. Herbal compositions have been shown to be useful in improving hair consistency.

Evaluation of the Safety of Cosmetic Ingredients and Their Skin Compatibility through In Silico and In Vivo Assessments of a Newly Developed Eye Serum.

The term "risk assessment" is often substituted with "safety assessment", to demonstrate the safe properties of cosmetic ingredients and formulations. With respect to the actual legislative framework, the proper use of in silico evaluation could offer a representative non-animal substitute for the toxicity evaluation of cosmetic ingredients. The in silico assessment needs to be integrated with other lines of proof (in vitro and/or in vivo data) in the form of a complex methodology in order to demonstrate the safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients/products. The present study aimed to develop and characterize a new cosmetic formulation, designed for the skin care of the periorbital area. Quality control comprising stability, physicochemical, and microbiological evaluation was performed. Another objective of this study was to present a screening model for the safety evaluation of the cosmetic formulation by identifying individual ingredients, and to confirm the skin compatibility based on in vivo evaluation. The results demonstrated the in silico and in vivo safety profile of the cosmetic ingredients used in the present formulation. In silico evaluation, using a novel, specific software applicable for the risk evaluation of ingredients and formulations, showed that the incorporated ingredients were non-mutagenic and non-sensitizing, and considering the margin of safety (MoS), the cosmetic raw materials could be considered safe. Skin compatibility was confirmed by the patch test performed under dermatological control, evidencing the "non-irritating" potential of the developed cosmetic formulation.

Reflectance spectroscopy: a non-invasive strategy to explore skin reactions to topical products.

Reflectance spectroscopy has emerged as a powerful analytical technique in the field of dermatology, offering a non-invasive strategy to assess several cutaneous properties and skin response to topical products. By analyzing reflected light across different wavelengths, reflectance spectroscopy allows the quantification of cutaneous parameters, such as erythema index and melanin content. Moreover, this analytical technique enables the monitoring of any changes in skin physiology facilitating the assessment of long-term effects of topical products as well as predicting cutaneous diseases. This review provides an overview of the application of reflectance spectroscopy in investigating skin properties and reaction to topical applied products, including both pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations, thereby aiding in the development of personalized solutions tailored to individual needs.

Thermophilic Composting as a Means to Evaluate the Biodegradability of Polymers Used in Cosmetic Formulations

In the last decade, a growing demand for sustainable cosmetic ingredients has yielded numerous biodegradation protocols. While OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) aquatic assays are suitable for water-borne chemicals, it is crucial for the personal care industry to consider the persistence of plastics in soil, compost, and municipal sludge. Adopting this cradle-to-grave holistic approach would strengthen product appeal while increasing the accuracy and ethical integrity of green product labeling. The aim of our study was to employ quantitative CO2 detection and thermophilic composting protocols specified in ASTM D5338, along with pass level criteria outlined in ASTM D6400, to assess the mineralization of plastics commonly formulated into personal care products. Our results indicate that many cellulose ethers, cationic guars, starches, proteins, and labile polyesters demonstrate satisfactory disintegration, biodegradation, and seed germination rates to secure an ASTM D6400 compostability claim. By contrast, macromolecules designed with carbon–carbon backbones resisted acceptable mineralization in composting experiments, advocating that unadulterated municipal compost lacks the microbial diversity to enzymatically digest many synthetically derived resins. Additionally, polymers that demonstrated acceptable biodegradability in internal and published OECD aquatic studies, including chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol, exhibited limited respiration in local municipal compost; hence, untested correlations between aquatic, soil, and compost testing outcomes should never be assumed.

Encapsulation of organic ultraviolet photoprotective actives into poly(methyl methacrylate) nanoparticles for sunscreen formulations

AbstractSkin cancer is the most common of all cancers worldwide. This way, it is mandatory to adopt an adequate sun protection routine, including sunscreen lotions. However, despite the proven effectiveness of numerous chemical filters, many of them are also known for their allergenic and carcinogenic potential effects, which can be mitigated by exploring some encapsulation routes. Thus, the present work evaluates the influence of seven distinct ultraviolet (UV) organic filters on the final particle size and molecular weight distributions of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) beads. Moreover, the sun protection factors (SPF) of the loaded nanoparticles are also evaluated when used for preparation of sunscreen formulations. The UV filters did not affect the course of MMA miniemulsion polymerizations significantly, enabling the synthesis of loaded nanoparticles. Nevertheless, adding the filters shifted the particle size distributions toward larger diameters, which are appropriate for cosmetic formulations. Based on the SPF analyses, it was also possible to observe a 12‐fold increase in the SPF values of the prepared formulations and an increase in the critical wavelength. Therefore, the in situ incorporation of distinct UV filters during miniemulsion MMA polymerizations constitutes a robust and versatile technology to produce PMMA nanoparticles loaded with UV filters for preparation of sunscreen formulations.

From black liquor to tinted sunscreens: Washing out Kraft lignin unpleasant odor and improving its properties by lignin nanoparticle preparation

Kraft lignin is a major byproduct of pulp and paper processing, presenting outstanding properties, including antioxidant action and UV and visible light absorption. Despite being a promising low-cost and renewable ingredient for dermo-cosmetic formulations, lignin use is restricted primarily because of its unpleasant odor and poor dispersibility in water. This study presents an integrated and environmentally friendly method to eliminate lignin odor, followed by improving its dispersibility in water through lignin nanoparticle (LNP) production, and, finally, evaluating their application in cosmetic formulations to act as antioxidant and UV-blocker. Starting with black liquor, Kraft lignin was precipitated and washed with water at 70°C, effectively removing lignin odor by a straightforward method, reducing its sulfur content from 5.6 to 2.9 wt%, and the ashes to negligible values without compromising the lignin structure. LNPs were successfully produced by the self-assembly method, yielding spherical and colloidally stable particles (zeta potential ca. −30 mV) with diameters ranging between 25 and 200 nm, outperforming particles prepared by sonication and bulk lignin itself. LNPs prepared by self-assembly method showed exceptional antioxidant activity, eliminating up to 79.2 % of DPPH• radicals (52 % more than bulk lignin) and showing in vitro SPF of ca. 15 with only 0.5 wt% of particle concentration, in addition to the improved dispersibility in cosmetic formulation.

Lipase-mediated alcoholysis for in situ production of ester bioaromas in licuri oil for cosmetic applications

Bioaromas can be produced by lipases either through their hydrolytic or (trans)esterifying activities. Therefore, this work reports the development of a lipase-catalyzed biotransformed licuri oil, forming volatile ethyl esters with odor notes resembling tropical fruits. Ethyl octanoate formation was promoted when 7.0 % (m/v) Lipozyme 435® was used to convert a grain alcohol:licuri oil mixture (51:49, v/v) at 58ºC and 70 rpm for 6 hours. The biotransformed oil has shown antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus hominis, S. epidermidis, and Corynebacterium xerosis, bacteria associated with bad skin odor. Finally, this biotransformed oil was used without further treatments (e.g., recovery or purification procedures) to prepare two cosmetic formulations (in a dosage of 1.5 %), aiming for both fragrant and deodorant activity.

Evaluation of eye irritation potential of experimental cosmetic formulations containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid and ethanol using the Bovine Corneal Opacity and Permeability Assay

Objective Prototype cosmetic formulations containing short-chain acids and alcohols intended to be applied in the proximity of the eyes are sometimes evaluated for ocular irritation potential using the validated Bovine Corneal Opacity and Permeability Assay (OECD TG 437). We evaluated the eye irritation potential of nine experimental cosmetic formulations designed and prepared by Avon Global Reserach and Development to differ only in the concentrations of Ethanol, Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid. Methods We analysed the data generated using the BCOP assay. The opacity and permeability values obtained following the exposure of bovine corneas to experimental cosmetic formulations were combined into a single In Vitro Irritancy Score used to rank eye irritation potential. Histopathological examination of treated corneas was used to provide additional information about the depth and degree of the injury and to support the prediction of eye irritation potential of each experimental cosmetic formulation. Results The In Vitro Irritancy Scores and histopathological analysis showed that experimental formulations containing only Ethanol, Glycolic Acid, or Salicylic Acid alone had, at most, a mild ocular irritation potential. The experimental formulations containing both Ethanol and Glycolic Acid had a mild ocular irritation potential, while the experimental formulations containing both Ethanol and Salicylic Acid had a moderate ocular irritation potential. Severe ocular irritation potential was induced by an experimental formulation containing a combination of Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid and it was further accentuated by the addition of Ethanol to the formulation. Our data indicate a possible synergistic effect on eye irritation potential of Ethanol, Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid in at least some experimental cosmetic formulations. Further, our results provide insight on an apparent concentration-dependent ocular irritation potential effect of combinations of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Ethanol in at least one experimental cosmetic formulation. Conclusions The results presented herein emphasise the need to consider in vitro testing of prototype cosmetic formulations containing combinations of Ethanol, Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid rather than relying on any predicted additive effect on ocular irritation based solely on previously generated results of similar formulations containing Ethanol, Glycolic Acid or Salicylic Acid alone. Further work is required to understand the significance of these observations and to elucidate the mechanisms responsible for the apparent synergistic effects of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Ethanol and eye irritation potential suggested by our results.

Discovery of (E)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(5-hydroxypentyl)acrylamide among N-substituted cinnamamide derivatives as a novel cosmetic ingredient for hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation disorders may result from inappropriate melanin deposition and/or excessive melanin synthesis. They are classified mainly as aesthetic problems, but they can significantly affect human health by decreasing self-esteem. There are available only limited treatment options for hyperpigmentation disorder, among others, cosmetic products applied topically. Depigmenting ingredients were found to be ineffective and characterized by various side effects. As a result, many efforts are made to discover novel, potent, and safe melanogenesis inhibitors for possible use in topical cosmetic depigmenting formulations. Cinnamic acid derivatives constitute a widely tested group for that purpose. This article reports research in the group of N-alkyl cinnamamide derivatives (un)substituted in phenyl ring. Among tested series, (E)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(5-hydroxypentyl)acrylamide (compound 21) showed the most promising inhibitory properties in mushroom tyrosinase assay (IC50 = 36.98 ± 1.07 µM for monophenolase activity, IC50 = 146.71 ± 16.82 µM for diphenolase activity) and melanin production inhibition in B16F10 mouse melanoma cell line at concentration 6.25 µM resulting probably from decreasing of Tyr, Mitf, Tyrp-1, and Tyrp-2 genes expression. This compound also showed melanin production inhibitory properties in pigmented reconstructed human epidermis when used in 1 % and 2 % solutions in 50 % PEG400. In vitro evaluation of its safety profile showed no cytotoxicity to human keratinocytes HaCaT, human skin fibroblasts BJ, and human primary epidermal melanocytes HEMa, no mutagenicity in the Ames test, no genotoxicity in micronucleus test, no phototoxicity, as well as no skin irritation potential tested in PEG400 solution. This compound was also shown to penetrate across the epidermis to reach the possible site of action. The performed research led to classify (E)-3-(4-chlorophenyl)-N-(5-hydroxypentyl)acrylamide as a novel potential depigmenting cosmetic ingredient.

Ocular effects of eye cosmetic formulations

Objective To study the ocular effects seen among eye cosmetic wearers in the Indian Population. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted on female participants who had fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A detailed history was obtained and thorough ophthalmic evaluation was done. Mann Whitney U test was used. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS. p < .05 was taken as the level of statistical significance. Results Among a total of 225 participants in our study, the mean age was 24.23 ± 1.8, which comprised of young student females. Majority of the females used one eye cosmetic with Kajal (n = 156) being the most predominant. Most frequently encountered symptom upon using eye cosmetics was watering from eyes and ocular pain was the least encountered symptom. Anterior segment examination showed- allergic conjunctivitis and meibomian gland dysfunction being the most and least predominant, respectively. Our study highlights that Kajal predisposes the eyes to significant ocular morbidity with p = .039 for dry eye disease, p = .041 for allergic conjunctivitis, p = .036 for conjunctival pigmentation. Prolonged use of such formulations for more than 4 times a week (p = .046) or even daily (p = .031) for a duration of either 1–5 years (p = .033) or greater than 5 years (p = .027) was found to be statistically significant in causing ocular signs. Non removal of eye cosmetics at the end of the day was significant in causing allergic conjunctivitis (p = .035) and conjunctival pigmentation (p = .021). Plain tap water has been found to be the least effective technique in the removal of such ocular cosmetics with a statistical significance of p = .031 in causing ocular signs. Conclusions Eye cosmetics are a significant contributor to the development of ocular surface diseases. Removal of products along with decreased usage seems to be a significant contributor in dampening unwanted adverse effects.

Polyphenol-Rich Extracts from Agroindustrial Waste and Byproducts: Results and Perspectives According to the Green Chemistry and Circular Economy.

Polyphenols are natural secondary metabolites found in plants endowed with multiple biological activities (antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective, and anticancer). In view of these properties, they find many applications and are used as active ingredients in nutraceutical, food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. In accordance with green chemistry and circular economy strategies, they can also be recovered from agroindustrial waste and reused in various sectors, promoting sustainable processes. This review described structural characteristics, methods for extraction, biological properties, and applications of polyphenolic extracts obtained from two selected plant materials of the Mediterranean area as olive (Olea europaea L.) and pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) based on recent literature, highlighting future research perspectives.

Skin anti-aging potential of Launaea procumbens extract: Antioxidant and enzyme inhibition activities supported by ADMET and molecular docking studies

Aging is a natural process that occurs in all living organisms. Particularly, the skin embodies aging since it serves as a barrier between the body and its surroundings. Previously, we reported the wound healing effect of Launaea procumbens and identified compounds therein. The study aims to explore the skin anti-aging properties of the plant extract. To that effect, the antioxidant potential of L. procumbens methanolic extract (LPM) was assessed using two complementary DPPH and FRAP assays. The enzyme inhibitory effect of the extract on collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase, and tyrosinase was evaluated to assess the direct skin anti-aging effects. Similarly, the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated to explore the indirect anti-aging effects via the assessment of extract inhibitory effects on cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX). In addition, ADMET and molecular docking studies were performed to explore the interaction mechanisms of identified compounds in LPM with target enzymes. LPM demonstrated significant antioxidant activity in DPPH (IC50 = 29.08 µg/mL) and FRAP (1214.67 µM FeSO4/g extract) assays. Plant extract showed significant inhibition of collagenase, elastase, hyaluronidase, and tyrosinase (IC50 = 52.68, 43.76, 31.031, and 37.13 µg/mL, respectively). The extract demonstrated significant COX-2 and 5-LOX inhibition capacity with IC50 values of 8.635 and 10.851 µg/mL, respectively. The molecular docking study revealed the high potential of the identified compounds to bind to the active sites of enzymes crucially involved in the skin aging process. ADMET analysis of the compounds revealed their good absorption, distribution, and metabolism profiles, and they were found to be safe as well. Study findings suggest L. procumbens as a promising source for the development of natural skin anti-aging and antioxidant compounds. This, in turn, may facilitate its incorporation into cosmetic formulations after further investigation.

From Extraction to Stabilization: Employing a 22 Experimental Design in Developing Nutraceutical-Grade Bixin from Bixa orellana L.

Bixin is the main carotenoid found in the outer portion of the seeds of Bixa orellana L., commercially known as annatto. This compound is industrially employed in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food formulations as a natural dye to replace chemical additives. This study aimed to extract bixin from annatto seeds and obtain encapsulated bixin in a powder form, using freeze-drying encapsulation and maltodextrin as encapsulating agent. Bixin was extracted from annatto seeds employing successive washing with organic solvents, specifically hexane and methanol (1:1 v/v), followed by ethyl acetate and dichloromethane for subsequent washes, to effectively remove impurities and enhance bixin purity, and subsequent purification by crystallization, reaching 1.5 ± 0.2% yield (or approximately 15 mg of bixin per gram of seeds). Bixin was analyzed spectrophotometrically in different organic solvents (ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, dimethylsulfoxide, chloroform, hexane), and the solvents chosen were chloroform (used to solubilize bixin during microencapsulation) and hexane (used for spectrophotometric determination of bixin). Bixin was encapsulated according to a 22 experimental design to investigate the influence of the concentration of maltodextrin (20 to 40%) and bixin-to-matrix ratio (1:20 to 1:40) on the encapsulation efficiency (EE%) and solubility of the encapsulated powder. Higher encapsulation efficiency was obtained at a maltodextrin concentration of 40% w/v and a bixin/maltodextrin ratio of 1:20, while higher solubility was observed at a maltodextrin concentration of 20% w/v for the same bixin/maltodextrin ratio. The encapsulation of this carotenoid by means of freeze-drying is thus recognized as an innovative and promising approach to improve its stability for further processing in pharmaceutical and food applications.

Improvement in Facial Wrinkles Using Materials Enhancing PPARGC1B Expression Related to Mitochondrial Function.

Skin aging is an unavoidable natural phenomenon caused by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. In modern society, the pursuit of a wrinkle-free and aesthetically appealing face has gained considerable prominence. Numerous studies have aimed at mitigating the appearance of facial wrinkles. Antiaging research focused on regulating the function of mitochondria, the main reactive oxygen species-generating organelles, has been extensively conducted. In this study, we investigated the correlation between facial wrinkles and the expression of PPARGC1B, considering the association of this gene with mitochondrial function, to identify its potential as a target for exploring antiaging cosmetic materials. We elucidated the role of PPARGC1B in the skin and identified five bioactive materials that modulated its expression. The effectiveness of these materials was verified through in vitro experiments on human dermal fibroblasts. We prepared cosmetic formulations incorporating the five materials and confirmed their ability to enhance dermal collagen in three-dimensional skin models and reduce facial wrinkles under the eyes and nasolabial fold areas in human subjects. The study findings have significant implications for developing novel antiaging cosmetic formulations by reinforcing mitochondrial functions.

Evaluation of the Biological Activity of Manna Exudate, from Fraxinus ornus L., and Its Potential Use as Hydrogel Formulation in Dermatology and Cosmetology.

Manna, a well-known herbal drug has multiple traditional and pharmaceutical uses and the entire composition, sugar derivatives and polyphenols, gives rise to a very interesting bioactive complex with versatile therapeutic and benefic properties such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The aim of this research was to investigate a F. ornus manna extract loaded in a pectin hydrogel as a synergic vehicle to evaluate the potential use of the complex for cosmetic and dermatological applications. In particular, the study set out to disclose manna properties as a wound healing agent with antimicrobial and reparative activity on infected tissues. Moreover, considering the correlation between antioxidant activity and antiaging potential, the extract was investigated in regard to the anti-elastase activity and skin whitening potential. The total phenolic content of each extract was also determined and a safe profile by in vitro cytotoxicity studies was verified. The hydrogel complex, containing the manna extract and pectin as the gelling agent, exhibited suitable properties in terms of pH (from 5.50 to 6.80), rheological behavior and ability of preserving the antioxidant activity of the manna exudate (around 10%). All the peculiarities that make the pectin hydrogels ideal systems for skin disease, as wound dressings and for antiaging cosmetic formulations.

Unveiling the Potential of Ultrasonic-Assisted Ethanol Extract from Sargassum horneri in Inhibiting Tyrosinase Activity and Melanin Production in B16F10 Murine Melanocytes.

Melanogenesis, regulated by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors, occurs in melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis. Dysregulation of this process can lead to various skin disorders, such as hyperpigmentation and hypopigmentation. Therefore, the present study investigated the effect of ultrasonic-assisted ethanol extract (SHUE) from Sargassum horneri (S. horneri), brown seaweed against melanogenesis in α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH)-stimulated B16F10 murine melanocytes. Firstly, yield and proximate compositional analysis of the samples were conducted. The effect of SHUE on cell viability has been evaluated by using 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. After that, the melanin content and cellular tyrosinase activity in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 murine melanocytes were examined. Western blot analysis was carried out to investigate the protein expression levels of microphthalmia-associated transcription factor (MITF), tyrosinase, tyrosinase-related protein-1 (TRP1), and tyrosinase-related protein-2 (TRP2). In addition, the effect of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) on the melanogenesis process was assessed via Western blotting. As per the analysis, SHUE contained the highest average yield on a dry basis at 28.70 ± 3.21%. The findings showed that SHUE reduced the melanin content and cellular tyrosinase activity in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 murine melanocytes. Additionally, the expression levels of MITF, TRP1, and TRP2 protein were significantly downregulated by SHUE treatment in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 murine melanocytes. Moreover, SHUE upregulated the phosphorylation of ERK and AKT in α-MSH-stimulated B16F10 murine melanocytes. In addition, experiments conducted using the ERK inhibitor (PD98059) revealed that the activity of SHUE depends on the ERK signaling cascade. These results suggest that SHUE has an anti-melanogenic effect and can be used as a material in the formulation of cosmetics related to whitening and lightening.

Deciphering the Effects of Different Types of Sunlight Radiation on Skin Function: A Review

Sunlight radiation is a fundamental component of our daily lives. Specifically, blue light as well as UV light appear to play a role in the development of oxidative stress, DNA damage, photoaging, and pigmentation through the chromophores in skin tissues. However, several skin problems like psoriasis, eczema, and atopic dermatitis can be avoided with short-duration exposures to low-energy blue light radiation or UV radiation. In addition, exploring the effects of blue light as well as UV radiation on skin is quite essential for the development of minimally invasive antiaging strategies and for the design of innovative cosmetic formulations in modern aesthetics and cosmetology. Thus, in this review, we present the advantages as well as the disadvantages of light radiation, with a special focus on blue light and UV radiation activity on the human skin. We also discuss the molecular action of blue light and UV radiation on human skin. Other types of light radiation are included to holistically approach the effect of light on human skin.

Composition of Amesiodendron chinense (Merr.) Hu Seed Oil and Assessment of Its Nrf2/ARE Induction Activity in AREc32 Cells

Article Composition of Amesiodendron chinense (Merr.) Hu Seed Oil and Assessment of Its Nrf2/ARE Induction Activity in AREc32 Cells Chuanchom Khuniad 1,2,*, Lutfun Nahar 3,*, Jason W. Birkett 4, Kenneth J. Ritchie 1 and Satyajit D. Sarker 1,* 1 Centre for Natural Products Discovery (CNPD), School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK 2 Department of Thai Traditional Medicine, Faculty of Health and Sports Science, Thaksin University, Phatthalung 93210, Thailand 3 Laboratory of Growth Regulators, Palacký University and Institute of Experimental Botany, The Czech Academy of Sciences, Šlechtitelů 27, 78371 Olomouc, Czech Republic 4 Forensic Science Research Group, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK * Correspondence: C.Khuniad@2020.ljmu.ac.uk (C.K.); nahar@ueb.cas.cz (L.N.) and S.Sarker@ljmu.ac.uk (S.D.S.) Received: 7 April 2024; Revised: 26 April 2024; Accepted: 6 May 2024; Published: 14 May 2024 Abstract: Background: Amesiodendron chinense (Merr.) Hu (family: Sapindaceae) is a Thai medicinal plant. The seed oil of this species has been used by folk healers and local people in southern Thailand for the treatment of wounds, skin disorders and common hair problems. This study aimed at the GC-MS-based determination of the chemical composition of the seed oil of this plant, and evaluation of its Nrf2/ARE induction activity in AREc32 cells (modified human breast cancer cell line MCF-7) using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] and luciferase reporter gene assays. Results: GC-MS analysis identified 9-(E)-octadecenoic acid (84.82%) as the main component of this seed oil. TLC-based qualitative DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay revealed the DPPH radical-scavenging activity of the seed oil and its chromatographic fractions. A low-level DPPH-scavenging activity was observed in the quantitative assay, but no IC50 value could be determined even with the highest tested concentration (10 mg/mL). Neither the oil nor its chromatographic fractions showed any significant Nrf2/ARE induction in AREc32 cells. The seed oil was noncytotoxic against the AREc32 cells. Conclusions: A. chinense seed oil and its fractions had a low level of free-radical scavenging property but no significant Nrf2/ARE induction activity in AREc32 cells. However, as the oil did not show any cytotoxicity at test concentrations in the MTT assay, this oil might potentially be safe to use in cosmetic formulations or as a vehicle for the dermal delivery of drug molecules.

Polyglutamate: Unleashing the Versatility of a Biopolymer for Cosmetic Industry Applications

Polyglutamic acid (PGA), a biopolymer comprising repeating units of glutamic acid, has garnered significant attention owing to its versatile applications. In recent years, microbial production processes have emerged as promising methods for the large-scale synthesis of PGA, offering advantages such as sustainability, efficiency, and tailored molecular properties. Beyond its industrial applications, PGA exhibits unique properties that render it an attractive candidate for use in the cosmetic industry. The biocompatibility, water solubility, and film-forming characteristics of PGA make it an ideal ingredient for cosmetic formulations. This article explores the extensive potential cosmetic applications of PGA, highlighting its multifaceted role in skincare, haircare, and various beauty products. From moisturizing formulations to depigmentating agents and sunscreen products, PGA offers a wide array of benefits. Its ability to deeply hydrate the skin and hair makes it an ideal ingredient for moisturizers, conditioners, and hydrating masks. Moreover, PGA’s depigmentating properties contribute to the reduction in hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone, enhancing the overall complexion. As the demand for sustainable and bio-derived cosmetic ingredients escalates, comprehending the microbial production and cosmetic benefits of PGA becomes crucial for driving innovation in the cosmetic sector.

Formulation and Evaluation of Multipurpose Herbal Cream

The remedies used to improve a person's look are called herbal cosmetics. The current study set out to create a herbal cream with antifungal, antibacterial, anti-acne properties, as well as moisturizing, nourishing, lightening, and treating a range of skin conditions. Various unrefined medications were consumed, including Curcuma longa (turmeric rhizomes), Nirgundi (Vitex negundo Linn), Azadirachta Indica (neem leaves). The cream is prepared by slab Technique. Final samples underwent accelerated stability testing in an environmental chamber with a temperature of 25 ± 100C and a humidity of 60 ± 10% RH. It was discovered that every product was stable, showing no evidence of phase separation or color change. Additionally, a patch test was performed for sensitivity testing, and there was no indication of any allergic reactions or skin irritation. This work primarily it focuses on evaluating the microbiological quality of prepared cosmetics. To everyone's amazement, both formulations passed the microbiological limit tests according to international standards. It has been established that the formulation of herbal cosmetics is safe for use and can be applied as a barrier to protect skin.