Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for Cosmetics Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser

Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025

Print Special Issue Flyer
Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue
Published Papers

A special issue of Cosmetics (ISSN 2079-9284).

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 9936

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Enzo Berardesca

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
Interests: dermatology; skin care; contact dermatitis; cosmetic efficacy; cosmetic formulation; barrier function; skin irritation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

As Editor-in-Chief of Cosmetics, I am pleased to announce this 2025 Special Issue. As in previous years, this Special Issue will be a collection of high-quality papers from Editorial Board members, Guest Editors, and leading researchers invited by the Editorial Office and the Editor-in-Chief. Science in the field of cosmetics is rapidly expanding, and many areas are of great interest for us. One of the most thrilling developments in recent years is the rise in personalized skincare solutions. Leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and genomic research, scientists are crafting bespoke skincare regimens tailored to individual genetic profiles.

Sustainability continues to be a paramount focus, with researchers unveiling novel methods to minimize environmental impact. Biodegradable packaging, eco-friendly ingredients, and innovative recycling techniques are at the forefront of this movement, setting new standards for responsible beauty practices.

Moreover, the exploration of novel ingredients continues to captivate researchers and consumers alike. From marine biotechnology harnessing the power of algae to harnessing the regenerative properties of plant stem cells, these innovations offer new avenues for skincare and cosmetic formulations that are both effective and ethically sourced. The intersection between technology and beauty is another fascinating realm. The year 2025 heralds a new chapter in the cosmetics industry, defined by personalized solutions, sustainable practices, technological integration, and groundbreaking ingredients, and we hope many of you will embrace this project and contribute your outstanding papers to this Special Issue.

Prof. Dr. Enzo Berardesca
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Cosmetics is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 1800 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

materials and ingredient research related to cosmetics
therapeutic options for skin, hair and body care
product formulations and ingredients
cosmetic olfactory research developments
technologies in cosmetic product development
testing of skin and hair products
toxicological studies of cosmetic products
in vivo and in vitro testing of cosmetic products
pure and applied research involved in skin, hair and body cosmetics
analytical chemistry of essential components involved in cosmetic product formulations
biomedicine research on biologically active components
regulatory and ethical issues in cosmetic research
dermatology, microbiology, anatomy, physiology, immunology and biochemistry of the skin
facial rejuvenation, laser therapy
cosmetic surgery and related medicine techniques

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (11 papers)

Download All Papers

Order results

Result details

Show export options Show export options

Select all

Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

14 pages, 657 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Microemulsions Loaded with Plinia cauliflora Extract and Fractions for Topical Application Against Cutaneous Mycosis

by Rodrigo Sorrechia, Camila Cristina Baccetti Medeiros, João Vitor Carvalho Constantini, Rafaela Regina Fantatto, Bárbara Regina Kapp, Nathália Ferreira Fregonezi, Ana Melero, Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida, Marlus Chorilli and Rosemeire Cristina Linhari Rodrigues Pietro

Cosmetics 2025, 12(3), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12030103 - 15 May 2025

Viewed by 137

Abstract

Fungal infections, including skin ones, due to resistant strains combined with the gap in discovering new antifungal compounds have presented great medical importance; thus, we evaluated the antifungal properties of Plinia cauliflora, a Brazilian plant known as jabuticabeira, as its fruits have been used in traditional medicine, which has been scientifically proved. The differential in this study was the use of leaves to obtain the ethanolic extract and its fractions and with incorporation in microemulsions that can increase the activity, promoting greater availability of active components in therapeutic targets. Candida glabrata has been very prominent in nosocomial infections and our results were very promising, showing a minimum inhibitory concentration of 4.88 μg/mL for the extract and about a 4-fold decrease with its microemulsion reaching 1.22 μg/mL; for the dermatophytic fungus Trichophyton rubrum, this decreased 2-fold, from 156.25 μg/mL to 78.12 μg/mL. The antioxidant activity was also studied, showing the best results for the extract at 25.6 μg/mL and lastly, the samples were not toxic when the Galleria mellonella model was used. Thus, the results demonstrate the activity of the extract, and that the incorporation was able to increase the antifungal activity in a safe, non-toxic manner, making it possible to provide a therapeutic option for these fluconazole-resistant microorganisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 6860 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cosmetic Potential of Haberlea rhodopensis Extracts and Extracellular Vesicles in Human Fibroblast Cells

by Milena Georgieva, Bela Vasileva, Penyo Ivanov, Kamelia Hristova-Panusheva, Tsvetelina Paunova-Krasteva, Ivan Lesov, Zlatina Gospodinova, Natalia Krasteva, George Miloshev and Vasil Georgiev

Cosmetics 2025, 12(3), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12030090 - 1 May 2025

Viewed by 1084

Abstract

Skin ageing is a complex biological process influenced by cellular senescence, oxidative stress, and extracellular matrix degradation. Emerging evidence suggests that plant-derived bioactive compounds and extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a crucial role in modulating cellular homeostasis, promoting tissue regeneration, and counteracting age-related morphological and functional changes. This study investigates the impact of Haberlea rhodopensis in vitro culture extracts, native and enriched with EVs, on key cellular processes, including morphology, mitochondrial dynamics, lysosomal activity, gene expression, and genotoxicity in human dermal fibroblasts. The extracellular vesicles were identified in terms of shape, size, and morphology using dynamic light scattering, negative staining and observation under a transmission electron microscope. A comprehensive in vitro analysis was conducted utilizing light microscopy to assess cellular morphology and lysosomal mass, fluorescence microscopy for actin cytoskeletal organization, mitochondrial integrity, and nuclear morphology, and gene expression profiling for markers associated with collagen synthesis (COL1A1, COL3A1), senescence (CDKN1A), and oxidative stress response (NFE2L2). Additionally, cell cycle progression was evaluated, and genotoxicity was assessed using the neutral comet assay. Haberlea rhodopensis in vitro culture extracts and EVs were found to preserve fibroblast morphology, enhance mitochondrial mass, and upregulate collagen-related gene expression. These effects were concentration-dependent. The extracts exhibited biocompatibility with minimal genotoxic effects, indicating their potential as safe bioactive agents for skin rejuvenation. The findings suggest that Haberlea rhodopensis in vitro culture extracts and their enrichment with extracellular vesicles hold promise for cosmetic and dermatological applications, particularly in enhancing collagen production, preserving cellular integrity, and mitigating age-related alterations in skin fibroblasts. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and optimize formulation strategies for clinical translation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2020 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Biological Properties of Rosa rubiginosa L. Leaf Extract as a Bio-Functional Ingredient Based on 2D Cell-Based Models and In Vitro Assessments

by Sophia Letsiou, Aliki Tsakni, Dionysis Antonopoulos, Alexandros Tsoupras and Dimitra Houhoula

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020062 - 31 Mar 2025

Viewed by 478

Abstract

Natural ingredients have long been utilized to enhance human health. While Rosa rubiginosa L. has been relatively understudied, it is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study explores its diverse bioactivity on human primary keratinocytes and fibroblasts, highlighting its potential as a bio-functional agent in cosmeceuticals or nutraceuticals. The Rosa rubiginosa L. leaf extract demonstrated strong scavenging activity and high phenolic content protection while also preventing DNA breakage. At the molecular level, ATP determination revealed that the Rosa rubiginosa L. leaf confers cell viability even under oxidative stress. Gene expression analysis uncovered its protective effects on human primary keratinocytes and fibroblasts due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory response under oxidative stress induced by UVA irradiation. These findings suggest that Rosa rubiginosa L. leaf extract provides significant in vitro biological properties in cell-based models, offering new insights into its potential benefits and underscoring its bio-functional role. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1818 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Skin Cell Phototoxicity and Photoprotection Study of Agro-Derived Lignin and Nanocellulose

by Juliana Varella Cruz, Adriana Solange Maddaleno, Julia Salles Gava, Washington Luiz Esteves Magalhães, Danielle Palma de Oliveira, Daniela Morais Leme, Montserrat Mitjans and Maria Pilar Vinardell

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020061 - 28 Mar 2025

Viewed by 417

Abstract

Lignin, a significant industrial byproduct from paper manufacturing processes, exhibits ultraviolet (UV) radiation absorption properties. Cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) demonstrate universal ligand characteristics and represent an innovative approach for converting industrial waste into value-added products. Given their potential applications in cosmetic formulations, their efficacy and safety parameters, such as their photoprotection mechanisms and phototoxicity, need to be investigated. Therefore, two kraft lignin fractions, LE and R1, along with a kraft-bleached pulp CNF, were evaluated for their phototoxicity and photoprotection mechanisms, both using the HaCaT cell line (immortalized human keratinocytes) as the in vitro model. Phototoxicity assessment involved exposing cells to UVA radiation (4 J/cm²), with the subsequent comparison of cell viability between irradiated and non-irradiated samples. ROS quantification was performed using a 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCF-DA) probe, with fluorescence intensity measurements, and was then used to evaluate the photoprotection effect. The results demonstrated that both LE and R1 exhibited concentration-dependent increases in phototoxicity, whereas CNF showed no phototoxic effects under the conditions tested. For photoprotection, LE, R1, and CNF reduced UV-induced ROS production, a result which could be associated with antioxidant properties in the case of the lignin fractions. These findings suggest that both lignin fractions and CNF hold promise for use in renewable and sustainable cosmetic formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 3383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Clinical Efficacy of Adiponectin-Stimulating Peptide on UV-Induced Skin Damage

by Yongwoo Kim, Seokjeong Yoon, Sungwoo Kim, Yeonjae Kim, Sekyoo Jeong and Hyun-jung Kim

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020054 - 18 Mar 2025

Viewed by 534

Abstract

Several studies have suggested that adiponectin is an anti-aging molecule based on its potential involvement of adipose tissue in skin aging. In this study, we investigated the anti-photoaging efficacy of an adiponectin expression-stimulating peptide derivative, pentasodium tetracarboxymethyl hexanoyl dipeptide-12 (PTHD-12), in in vitro and ex vivo human skin explant models. A double-blind, randomized, comparator placebo-controlled study was performed to confirm clinical efficacy. After irradiation with 50 mJ/cm² of UVB, a UV-induced decrease in adiponectin expression and an increase in inflammatory cytokines in cultured human dermal fibroblasts were prevented by the PTHD-12 treatment test peptide. Mitigation of cellular senescence and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) expressions induced by UVB (50 mJ/cm²) exposure were also mitigated by the post-treatment of PTHD-12, which was also observed in an ex vivo human skin explant model. The restoration of filaggrin, loricrin, and claudin-1 protein expression in a cultured human skin explant was observed. A clinical study further confirmed that the restoration of UVB-induced skin damage, represented by increased skin redness and trans-epidermal water loss, was accelerated by the use of test peptide PTHD-12-containing products. These results suggest that targeting adiponectin may be a plausible strategy for the development of anti-aging ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 4614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Production and Characterization of Semi-Solid Formulations for the Delivery of the Cosmetic Peptide Palmitoyl-GHK

by Valentyn Dzyhovskyi, Federico Santamaria, Erika Marzola, Leda Montesi, Irene Donelli, Stefano Manfredini, Remo Guerrini and Elisabetta Esposito

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020050 - 13 Mar 2025

Viewed by 831

Abstract

In this study, vesicular lipid systems and semi-solid formulations for the skin application of Palmitoyl-GHK were formulated and characterized. Palmitoyl-GHK is a cosmetic peptide with anti-aging action, capable of treating the signs of skin aging by mainly stimulating collagen synthesis in the dermis. The so-called “ethosomes” were evaluated as nanovesicular systems constituted of phosphatidylcholine, organized in vesicles, ethanol, and water. In addition, semi-solid systems were produced and characterized, namely an organogel based on phosphatidylcholine, isopropyl palmitate, and water, a gel based on Poloxamer 407, and the poloxamer organogel, created by combining organogel and Poloxamer gel. To make the ethosomal dispersions suitable for skin application, xanthan gum was added as a gelling agent. Studies were therefore carried out on semi-solid formulations to determine (i) the spreadability, a key factor that influences various aspects of a topical/transdermal formulation, (ii) the occlusive factor, important to guarantee good effectiveness of a dermocosmetic product, and finally, (iii) the hydrating power, to study the effect of a formulation applied to the skin. A formulation study enabled the selection of the most suitable formulations for the incorporation of the active ingredient of interest. Palmitoyl-GHK was found to be soluble both in ethosomes and in the poloxamer organogel. In vitro studies were therefore conducted to evaluate the release kinetics of Palmitoyl-GHK from the formulations, via Franz cells. The qualitative–quantitative analysis, through analytical HPLC, highlighted that the active ingredient is released more slowly from semi-solid formulations compared to vesicular systems; in particular, the presence of poloxamer allows a controlled release of the peptide. Further studies will be necessary to verify the anti-aging efficacy of formulations containing the peptide. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

17 pages, 507 KiB

Open AccessReview

Optimizing Skin Quality via AI-Enhanced Physical Activity

by Niki Tertipi, Eleni Sfyri, Vasiliki Sofia Grech, Vasiliki Kefala and Efstathios Rallis

Cosmetics 2025, 12(3), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12030104 - 20 May 2025

Abstract

Genetic predisposition, environmental factors, lifestyle choices, and physical activity influence skin quality. Regular exercise has well-documented benefits for skin physiology, including enhanced microcirculation, improved collagen synthesis, oxidative stress reduction, and modulation of inflammatory pathways. However, individual responses to physical activity vary significantly, depending on skin type, age, fitness level, and environmental exposures. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) offer new opportunities for tailoring exercise programs to meet individual skin health needs. Wearable sensors and smart fitness devices provide real-time data on physiological responses (e.g., heart rate, sweat rate, and oxidative stress) and environmental parameters (e.g., UV exposure and pollution levels). AI algorithms process this data to create dynamic, adaptive exercise routines designed to maximize skin benefits while minimizing potential harm (e.g., exercise-induced oxidative stress in sensitive skin types). This review synthesizes the current evidence on the skin benefits of exercise while exploring the emerging role of AI-driven personalized physical activity as a novel tool in cosmetic dermatology. Integrating AI into fitness planning, personalized, non-invasive skincare strategies may complement traditional topical and procedural approaches, representing a step forward in precision dermatology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 774 KiB

Open AccessReview

New Perspectives on Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide as Inorganic UV Filters: Advances, Safety, Challenges, and Environmental Considerations

by Stephany Mayumi Araki and André Rolim Baby

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020077 - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 1632

Abstract

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a primary risk factor for various skin disorders, including erythema, sunburn, and skin cancer. Sunscreens containing UV filters, categorized as organic or inorganic, are widely utilized to mitigate these effects. Among inorganic UV filters, titanium dioxide (TiO₂) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are prominently used due to their favorable safety and achievable broad-spectrum protection profiles. This review focuses on the properties, safety, and efficacy of TiO₂ and ZnO in sunscreens, emphasizing their mechanisms of action, photostability, and impacts on human health and the environment. Key factors influencing their performance include particle size, surface coatings, and formulation pH. Despite recognized advantages, concerns about toxicity—particularly related to nanoparticle penetration and reactive oxygen species generation—highlight the need for robust safety assessments. Additionally, the environmental impacts of inorganic UV filters, including bioaccumulation and effects on aquatic ecosystems, warrant consideration. Advances in nanoparticle synthesis, bioactive compound integration, and environmentally friendly formulations offer pathways to enhance sunscreen efficacy and safety, providing opportunities for innovation in photoprotection. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1265 KiB

Open AccessReview

On the Key Role of Polymeric Rheology Modifiers in Emulsion-Based Cosmetics

by Matteo Franceschini, Fabio Pizzetti and Filippo Rossi

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020076 - 11 Apr 2025

Viewed by 2071

Abstract

Emulsions play a crucial part in the whole beauty and care market, especially in skin and hair care domains where, due to their extraordinary versatility, they represent most of the finite products. Being thermodynamically unstable, one key aspect of their formulation is the use of stabilizers that ensure a long lifetime under different conditions. In this framework a key role is related to rheology modifiers, which include all those raw ingredients added to achieve, among others, desirable inflow characteristics that would not be possible to gain in their absence. In this review, strong attention was dedicated to different polymers and formulation strategies to understand the key role of these ingredients, widely used in emulsion-based cosmetics formulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 1232 KiB

Open AccessReview

Physicochemical Properties and Composition of Peristomal Skin Care Products: A Narrative Review

by Agnieszka Kulawik-Pióro, Małgorzata Miastkowska, Katarzyna Bialik-Wąs, Piotr Zelga and Anna Piotrowska

Cosmetics 2025, 12(2), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12020074 - 9 Apr 2025

Viewed by 655

Abstract

People who have gone through stoma surgery face different problems and difficulties every day, although most of these issues improve significantly with time. The quality of life of ostomy patients has been proven to be strictly related to self-care ability. So, it is essential for patients to properly maintain the ostomy site, including proper daily self-care and regeneration of the skin around the stoma, to avoid stoma-related complications. This review was undertaken using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis) guidelines. The main aim of the literature review was to analyse and present the characteristics of medical products used in ostomy care currently existing on the market. The intervention and management of stoma problems with appliances and accessories are also summarised. This literature review is limited to a critical analysis of the scientific and professional literature and informational materials developed by manufacturers of stoma accessories. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

17 pages, 2020 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Berry Fruit Extracts as Topical Cosmeceuticals for Skin Health Applications: A Systematic Review

by Filipe Silveira Azevedo, Allan Rodrigues Pires, Mary Ann Lila, Giuseppe Valacchi, Roberta Targino Hoskin, Mariaurea Matias Sarandy, Rômulo Dias Novaes and Reggiani Vilela Goncalves

Cosmetics 2025, 12(3), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12030087 - 23 Apr 2025

Viewed by 645

Abstract

Berries are a popular source of natural bioactive compounds with distinctive aspects and sensory attributes. In this review, the term “berry” refers to generally round, small, colorful, and juicy fruits with English common names ending in “berry”. They have high phenolic content, which has been linked to their health-relevant properties. To gather information on the potential of berries for treating skin inflammatory diseases, this systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines (PROSPERO registration number CRD 42024549567), based on studies from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. It focused on preclinical murine model studies, with bias and methodological quality assessed using SYRCLE’s RoB tool. Studies showed evidence that berries have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties due to compounds like anthocyanins, cyanidins, polyphenols, and catechins. Berry exposure reduced oxidative stress markers, such as malondialdehyde, carbonylated proteins, nitric oxide, 8-OHdG, and pyrimidine dimers. This stress reduction was associated with NF-κB and COX-2 pathway downregulation, lower IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, and MAPK, and increased IL-10. Morphological outcomes included increased collagen, elastin, glycosaminoglycans, and proteoglycans and reduced metalloproteinases. Bias analysis revealed a low risk, suggesting reliable studies. Berry treatments improved wound healing and extracellular matrix (ECM) production, supporting their potential in pharmaceutical topical formulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)

► Show Figures

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (11 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI