Search Results (757)

Avocado (Persea americana), originally from Mesoamerica, has emerged as a focus of intense scientific and industrial interest due to its unique combination of nutritional richness, bioactive potential, and technological versatility. Its pulp, widely consumed across the globe, is notably abundant in monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, which can comprise over two-thirds of its lipid content. In addition, it provides significant levels of dietary fiber, fat-soluble vitamins such as A, D, E and K, carotenoids, tocopherols, and phytosterols like β-sitosterol. These constituents are consistently associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, glycemic regulatory, and cardioprotective effects, supported by a growing body of experimental and clinical evidence. This review offers a comprehensive and critical synthesis of the chemical composition and functional properties of avocado, with particular emphasis on its lipid profile, phenolic compounds, and phytosterols. It also explores recent advances in environmentally sustainable extraction techniques, including ultrasound-assisted and microwave-assisted processes, as well as the application of natural deep eutectic solvents. These technologies have demonstrated improved efficiency in recovering bioactives while aligning with the principles of green chemistry. The use of avocado-derived ingredients in nanostructured delivery systems and their incorporation into functional foods, cosmetics, and health-promoting formulations is discussed in detail. Additionally, the potential of native cultivars and the application of precision nutrition strategies are identified as promising avenues for future innovation. Taken together, the findings underscore the avocado’s relevance as a high-value matrix for sustainable development. Future research should focus on optimizing extraction protocols, clarifying pharmacokinetic behavior, and ensuring long-term safety in diverse applications. Full article

A number of marine resources have been exploited for a long time. Examples include Fucus and Laminaria, from which gelling agents are extracted. Only a few hundred thousand marine species are currently known, representing a tiny fraction of the estimated total of between 700,000 and one million species. This opens up numerous possibilities for innovation in the cosmetics industry. In this study, we present various species that are currently under-exploited, but which could have applications in hydration and photoprotection, for example. Algae and microalgae are worthy of interest because they can be used for hydration and anti-ageing purposes. Collagen can be extracted from animal sources and used as a substitute for collagen of bovine origin. From a marketing perspective, it is possible to market it as ‘marine collagen’. However, it is imperative to emphasize the significance of ensuring the sustainability of the resource. In accordance with this imperative, algae that are capable of being cultivated are distinguished by their enhanced qualities. Full article

Probiotic supplementation in domestic cats has emerged as a promising non-pharmaceutical strategy to enhance gut health, immune function, and overall well-being. This review critically examines the current literature on probiotic use in feline health, highlighting evidence from studies involving both healthy and diseased cats. Probiotic strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Saccharomyces have demonstrated beneficial effects, including the modulation of the gut microbiota, a reduction in inflammation, and an improvement in gastrointestinal symptoms. Mechanistically, probiotics exert effects through microbial competition, the enhancement of epithelial barrier function, and immune modulation via cytokine and antimicrobial peptide regulation. Despite promising outcomes, limitations such as short study durations, small sample sizes, and narrow breed diversity constrain generalizability. Future research should prioritize long-term, multi-omics-integrated studies to elucidate mechanisms and optimize clinical application. Overall, probiotics offer a safe, functional dietary tool for improving feline health and may complement conventional veterinary care. Full article

In recent decades, there has been a marked surge in the development of marine-by-product-derived ingredients for cosmetic applications, driven by the increasing demand for natural, sustainable, and high-performance formulations. Marine animal by-products, particularly those from fish, crustaceans, and mollusks, represent an abundant yet underutilized source of bioactive compounds with notable potential in cosmeceutical innovation. Generated as waste from the fishery and seafood-processing industries, these materials are rich in valuable bioactives, such as chitosan, collagen, peptides, amino acids, fatty acids, polar lipids, lipid-soluble vitamins, carotenoids, pigments, phenolics, and mineral-based substrates like hydroxyapatite. Marine by-product bioactives can be isolated via several extraction methods, and most importantly, green ones. These compounds exhibit a broad spectrum of skin-health-promoting effects, including antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, anti-wrinkle, anti-hyperpigmentation, and wound-healing properties. Moreover, applications extend beyond skincare to include hair, nail, and oral care. The present review provides a comprehensive analysis of bioactives obtained from marine mollusks, crustaceans, and fish by-products, emphasizing modern extraction technologies with a focus on green and sustainable approaches. It further explores their mechanisms of action and documented efficacy in cosmetic formulations. Finally, the review outlines current limitations and offers future perspectives for the industrial valorization of marine by-products in functional and environmentally-conscious cosmetic development. Full article

Background: Blackberry seed oil (BSO), obtained from Rubus spp. Xavante cultivar via supercritical CO₂ extraction, contains bioactive lipids and antioxidants, but its cosmetic application is limited by poor solubility and stability. Nanoencapsulation with poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) can overcome these limitations. Methods: BSO was characterized by Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and incorporated into PCL nanocapsules (NCBSO) using the preformed polymer deposition method. Physicochemical properties, stability (at 4 °C, room temperature, and 37 °C for 90 days), cytotoxicity, and collagen production were assessed in human fibroblasts. Additionally, a predictive in silico analysis using PASS Online, Molinspiration, and SEA platforms was performed to identify the bioactivities of major BSO compounds related to collagen synthesis, antioxidant potential, and anti-aging effects. Results: NCBSO showed a nanometric size of ~267 nm, low polydispersity (PDI < 0.2), negative zeta potential (−28 mV), and spherical morphology confirmed by FE-SEM. The dispersion remained stable across all tested temperatures, preserving pH and colloidal properties. In particular, BSO and NCBSO at 100 µg.mL⁻¹ significantly enhanced in vitro collagen production by 170% and 200%, respectively, compared to untreated cells (p < 0.01). Superior bioactivity was observed for NCBSO. The in silico results support the role of key compounds in promoting collagen biosynthesis and protecting skin structure. No cytotoxic effects were achieved. Conclusions: The nanoencapsulation of BSO into PCL nanocapsules ensured formulation stability and potentiated collagen production. These findings support the potential of NCBSO as a promising candidate for future development as a collagen-boosting cosmeceutical. Full article

Objectives: Sialic acid (SA), a naturally occurring compound abundantly found in birds’ nests, holds immense promise for skincare applications owing to its remarkable biological properties. However, its low bioavailability, poor stability, and limited skin permeability have constrained its widespread application. Methods: To overcome these challenges, SA was encapsulated within nanoliposomes (NLPs) by the high-pressure homogenization technique to develop an advanced and efficient transdermal drug delivery system. The skincare capabilities of this novel system were comprehensively evaluated across multiple experimental platforms, including in vitro cell assays, 3D skin models, in vivo zebrafish studies, and clinical human trials. Results: The SA-loaded NLPs (SA-NLPs) substantially improved the transdermal penetration and retention of SA, facilitating enhanced cellular uptake and cell proliferation. Compared to free SA, SA-NLPs demonstrated a 246.98% increase in skin retention and 1.8-fold greater cellular uptake in HDF cells. Moreover, SA-NLPs protected cells from oxidative stress-induced damage, stimulated collagen synthesis, and effectively suppressed the secretion of matrix metalloproteinases, tyrosinase activity, and melanin production. Additionally, zebrafish-based assays provided in vivo evidence of the skincare efficacy of SA-NLPs. Notably, clinical evaluations demonstrated that a 56-day application of the SA-NLPs-containing cream resulted in a 4.20% increase in L*, 7.87% decrease in b*, 8.45% decrease in TEWL, and 4.01% reduction in wrinkle length, indicating its superior brightening, barrier-repair, and anti-aging effects. Conclusions: This multi-level, systematic investigation strongly suggests that SA-NLPs represent a highly promising transdermal delivery strategy, capable of significantly enhancing the anti-aging, barrier-repair, and skin-brightening properties of SA, thus opening new avenues for its application in the fields of dermatology and cosmeceuticals. Full article

The agro-industrial sector produces large amounts of by-products that have a high environmental impact, so it has become essential to recover food waste at all levels. This is because it often contains bioactive molecules that can be a valuable source of new products such as animal feed, biopolymers, or products for human use, (e.g., cosmetics and nutraceuticals) due to its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Advanced analytical methodologies such as liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) are crucial for the characterisation of bioactive chemicals in these waste materials. LC-MS enables both targeted and untargeted metabolomic approaches, facilitating the identification and quantification of a wide range of secondary metabolites, including polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. The choice of extraction methodology is essential for the precise identification and quantification of these metabolites. This study provides an overview of LC-MS as an effective tool for analysing complex extracts derived from plant waste, discussing both methodological aspects and typical bioactive metabolites identified, and offering examples of their potential applications in cosmeceutics. Full article

Background/Objectives: Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation contributes significantly to skin aging and skin disorders by promoting oxidative stress, inflammation, and collagen degradation. Natural antioxidants such as theaflavins and thearubigins from Camellia sinensis L. (black tea) have shown photoprotective effects. This study aimed to optimize the extraction of theaflavins and thearubigins from black tea leaves and evaluate the efficacy of the extract against UVB-induced damage using a transfersome-based topical formulation. Methods: Extraction of theaflavins and thearubigins was optimized via response surface methodology (Box-Behnken Design), yielding an extract rich in active polyphenols. This extract was incorporated into transfersomes that were characterized for size, polydispersity, zeta potential, storage stability, and entrapment efficiency. Human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) were used to assess cytotoxicity, protection against UVB-induced viability loss, collagen degradation, and expression of inflammatory (IL6, COX2, iNOS) and matrix-degrading (MMP1) markers. Cellular uptake of the extract’s bioactive marker compounds was measured via LC-MS/MS. Results: The transfersomes (~60 nm) showed a good stability and a high entrapment efficiency (>85%). The transfersomes significantly protected NHDF cells from UVB-induced cytotoxicity, restored collagen production, and reduced gene expression of MMP1, IL6, COX2, and iNOS. Cellular uptake of key extract’s polyphenols was markedly enhanced by the nanoformulation compared to the free extract. Conclusions: Black tea extract transfersomes effectively prevented UVB-induced oxidative and inflammatory damage in skin fibroblasts. This delivery system enhanced bioavailability of the extract and cellular protection, supporting the use of the optimized extract in cosmeceutical formulations targeting photoaging and UV-induced skin disorders. Full article

The cigarette production from Nicotiana tabacum generates significant amounts of waste, with an estimated 68.31 million tons of pre- and post-harvest waste discarded annually. The pre-harvest waste includes the upper parts of the plant, inflorescences, and bracts, which are removed to help the growth of the lower leaves. This study explores the potential of apical leaves from Nicotiana tabacum var. Virginia, discarded during the budding stage (pre-harvest waste). The leaves were extracted using environmentally friendly solvents (green solvents), including distilled water (DW) and two natural deep eutectic solvents (NaDESs), one consisting of simple sugars, fructose, glucose, and sucrose (FGS) and the other consisting of choline chloride and urea (CU). The anti-inflammatory and anti-aging potential of these green extracts was assessed by the inhibition of key enzymes related to skin aging. The xanthine oxidase and lipoxygenase activities were mostly inhibited by CU extracts with IC₅₀ values of 63.50 and 8.0 μg GAE/mL, respectively. The FGS extract exhibited the greatest hyaluronidase inhibition (49.20%), followed by the CU extract (33.20%) and the DW extract (20.80%). Regarding elastase and collagenase inhibition, the CU extract exhibited the highest elastase inhibition, while all extracts inhibited collagenase activity, with values exceeding 65%. Each extract had a distinct chemical profile determined by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and spectrophotometric methods, with several shared compounds present in different proportions. CU extract is characterized by high concentrations of rutin, nicotiflorin, and azelaic acid, while FGS and DW extracts share major compounds such as quinic acid, fructosyl pyroglutamate, malic acid, and gluconic acid. Ames test and Caenorhabditis elegans assay demonstrated that at the concentrations at which the green tobacco extracts exhibit biological activities, they did not show toxicity. The results support the potential of N. tabacum extracts obtained with NaDESs as antiaging and suggest their promising applications in the cosmetic and cosmeceutical industries. Full article

Centella asiatica (C. asiatica) has attracted significant scientific interest due to its extensive medicinal properties and long-established use in traditional medicine. This review synthesizes recent advances in the technological exploitation of C. asiatica, covering the extraction of bioactive constituents to product development. Modern extraction techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) have substantially improved the yield, selectivity, and preservation of key phytochemicals, particularly triterpenoids, saponins, and flavonoids. These compounds are now routinely characterized using advanced analytical platforms, ensuring product quality, consistency, and standardization. Moreover, the use of innovative formulation technologies and advanced delivery systems has facilitated the development of C. asiatica-based products tailored for various therapeutic areas, including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmeceuticals targeting neuroprotection, wound healing, skin aging, and stress modulation. Alongside these developments, stringent quality control protocols, toxicological evaluations, and adherence to evolving regulatory standards enhance the safety and efficacy of C. asiatica-derived interventions. This review highlights the integration of traditional knowledge with modern science across the domains of extraction, analysis, formulation, and regulation. It serves as a comprehensive resource for researchers, formulators, and regulatory stakeholders aiming to develop high-quality, evidence-based C. asiatica products with improved bioavailability and therapeutic value. Full article

Olive oil and its derivatives, particularly polyphenol-rich extracts, are valued for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and regenerative properties. Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a byproduct of olive oil production, traditionally seen as an environmental pollutant, has emerged as a promising source of high-value dermatological ingredients. Key polyphenols such as hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and tyrosol exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and photoprotective effects. These compounds mitigate oxidative stress, prevent collagen degradation, modulate NF-κB and MAPK signaling, and promote cellular repair and regeneration. Skin health is increasingly recognized as crucial to overall well-being, driving interest in cosmeceuticals that combine cosmetic benefits with dermatological activity. This review examines the cosmeceutical and dermatological potential of OMWW, highlighting its incorporation into innovative topical formulations like oil-in-water nanoemulsions, liposomes, and microneedles that enhance skin penetration and bioavailability. Additionally, OMWW fractions have shown selective antiproliferative effects on melanoma cells, suggesting potential for skin cancer prevention. Valorization of OMWW through biorefinery processes aligns with circular-economy principles, converting agro-industrial waste into sustainable cosmeceutical ingredients. This approach not only meets consumer demand for natural, effective products, but also reduces the ecological footprint of olive oil production, offering a scalable, eco-friendly strategy for next-generation dermatological applications. Full article

Nanotechnology has revolutionized dermocosmetic innovation by improving the stability, bioavailability, and efficacy of active ingredients. In this study, we developed and optimized a novel xanthan gum-based hydrogel containing quercetin-loaded chitosan lactate nanoparticles for antioxidant and antimicrobial skincare applications. Chitosan was converted to its lactate form to enhance water solubility and enable nanoparticle formation at physiological pH via ionic gelation with citric acid. The formulation was optimized using Box–Behnken response surface methodology to achieve minimal particle size and maximal zeta potential. The final gel was structured with xanthan gum as the gelling polymer, into which the optimized nanoparticles were incorporated to create a stable and bioactive hydrogel system. Encapsulation efficiency was measured separately to assess the effectiveness of drug loading. The optimized nanoparticles exhibited a mean diameter of 422.02 nm, a zeta potential of +29.49 mV, and a high quercetin encapsulation efficiency (76.9%), corresponding to the proportion of quercetin retained in the nanoparticle matrix relative to the total amount initially used in the formulation. Antioxidant assays (TAC, DPPH, and reducing power) confirmed superior radical-scavenging activity of the nanoformulation compared to the base hydrogel. Antibacterial tests showed strong inhibition against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus, with MIC values comparable to streptomycin. Accelerated stability studies demonstrated excellent physicochemical and microbiological stability over 60 days. This natural, bioactive, and eco-friendly formulation represents a promising platform for next-generation cosmeceuticals targeting oxidative stress and skin-related pathogens. Full article

The optimization of bioactive compound mixtures is critical for enhancing pharmacological efficacy. This study investigates, for the first time, the combined effects of eugenol, camphor, and terpineol, focusing on their half-maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC₅₀) across multiple biological responses related to diabetes management. Using a mixture design approach, the objective was to determine the optimal formulation that maximizes bioactivity and validate the findings experimentally. A simplex-centroid design was applied to evaluate the combined effects of eugenol, camphor, and terpineol on AAI _IC50, AGI _IC50, LIP _IC50, and ALR _IC50 responses. The desirability function was used to determine the ideal composition. The optimized formulation was experimentally validated using in vitro assays, and IC50 values were measured for each response using standard protocols. Results: The optimal formulation identified was 44% eugenol, 0.19% camphor, and 37% terpineol, yielding IC₅₀ values of 10.38 µg/mL (AAI), 62.22 µg/mL (AGI), 3.42 µg/mL (LIP), and 49.58 µg/mL (ALR). The desirability score (0.99) confirmed the effectiveness of the optimized blend. Experimental validation of the optimal mixture resulted in IC₅₀ values of 11.02 µg/mL (AAI), 60.85 µg/mL (AGI), 3.75 µg/mL (LIP), and 50.12 µg/mL (ALR), showing less than 10% deviation from predicted values, indicating high model accuracy. This study confirms the combined potential of eugenol, camphor, and terpineol, with eugenol and terpineol significantly enhancing bioactivity. The validated formulation demonstrates potential for pharmaceutical and cosmeceutical applications. Future research should explore mechanistic interactions, bioavailability, and in vivo efficacy to support the development of optimized natural compound-based therapies. Full article

Mitragyna speciosa (kratom) is a traditional medicinal plant rich in bioactive alkaloids and phenolics, known for their antioxidant and anti-aging properties. This study aimed to develop nanoparticle-based topical gels from ethanolic extracts of four kratom varieties, including Kan Daeng (KD), Hang Kang (HK), Tai Bai-yao (KY), and Kan Keaw (KG). Kratom NPs were prepared using a solvent displacement method. The resulting nanoparticles (NPs) exhibited sizes of 201.9–256.2 nm, polydispersity indices (PDI) below 0.3, and a zeta potential between −22.6 and −29.6 mV. The phytochemical analysis revealed that KG and KY extracts contained the highest total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), which were mostly retained after NP formulation. The HPLC analysis confirmed HK as the richest source of mitragynine (9.97 ± 0.10% w/w), while NP formulations displayed slightly reduced levels. Antioxidant activities assessed by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays revealed enhanced radical scavenging in nanoparticle formulations, with IC₅₀ values ranging from 151.23 to 199.87 µg/mL (DPPH) and 207.37 to 272.83 µg/mL (ABTS). All formulations exhibited a significant inhibition of collagenase (80.56 ± 1.60 to 97.23 ± 0.29%), elastase (45.46 ± 6.53 to 52.19 ± 1.20%), and hyaluronidase (83.23 ± 2.34 to 91.67 ± 3.56%), with nanoparticle forms showing superior enzyme inhibition. Notably, nanoparticle formulations exhibited superior inhibitory effects compared to crude extracts. HaCaT cytotoxicity tests confirmed high biocompatibility (IC₅₀ > 700 µg/mL), especially for KD and KG NPs. The NP-loaded gels demonstrated acceptable physicochemical stability after heating/cooling cycle testing, with pH (7.27 to 7.88), viscosity (10.719 to 12.602 Pa·s), and favorable visual and textural properties. In summary, KG and KY cultivars emerged as the most promising cosmeceutical candidates due to their superior phytochemical content, antioxidant capacity, enzyme-inhibitory activities, and formulation performance. These findings support the potential use of KG NP and KY NP-loaded gels as multifunctional cosmeceutical agents for antioxidant protection, anti-aging, and skin rejuvenation. Full article

Satureja montana L. (winter savory, family Lamiaceae) is an aromatic herb that is widespread throughout the Mediterranean region. In a prior study, the optimization of the green hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD)-glycerol-assisted extraction procedure of S. montana was performed. As a result, four extracts abundant in total phenols (OPT-TP), total phenolic acids including rosmarinic acid (OPT-TPA-RA), total flavonoids (OPT-TF), and luteolin derivatives (OPT-LG) showing anti-elastase and anti-hyaluronidase properties, were prepared. Subsequently, we further explored the phytochemical, dermatological, and cosmeceutical potentials of these extracts, evaluating their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tyrosinase, and anti-ultraviolet (UV) absorption activities. Furthermore, the biocompatibility of the extracts and their wound-healing properties were assessed using HaCaT cells. The results indicate that the extracts exhibited excellent antioxidant and cosmeceutical activities, which surpassed the activities of the employed standards in several assays (DPPH antiradical activity, β-carotene-linoleic acid, anti-lipoxygenase, anti-heat-induced ovalbumin coagulation, and UV absorbance assays). Furthermore, the extracts preserved more than 80% of the HaCaT cell viability at concentrations up to 62.5 µL extract/mL and also enhanced wound healing in the in vitro scratch wound-healing model. For example, the application of OPT-TP and OPT-TF led to 48.6% ± 3.3% and 48.6% ± 5.4% wound closure, respectively, after 48 h, compared to 34.8% ± 2.3% in the control group. The extracts exhibited excellent bioactivities, making them promising candidates for the development of cosmeceutical products, while their high biocompatibility indicates that they are suitable for direct application in cosmetics without prior solvent removal. Full article