Search Results (805)

This study developed a biodegradable dissolvable face mask incorporating liposomal kojic acid (KA) and licochalcone A from licorice extract (LE) to enhance skin delivery and performance. Liposomes were prepared by thin-film hydration method. The film matrix, composed of PVA/PVP/PEG400/HA, was optimized using factorial design to achieve suitable mechanical strength and rapid dissolution. The optimized mask, containing liposomal KA (1% w/v) and licochalcone A (0.025% w/v), was evaluated for antioxidant activity, ex vivo skin deposition, and short-term efficacy (Approval from the Institutional Review Board of Silpakorn University, Thailand; Ethics Approval No. REC 67.1001-146-7726/COA 68.0320-013 Date of registration: 20 March 2025). The optimized liposomes exhibited a mean particle size of 66–72 nm, entrapment efficiency above 65%, and a zeta potential of −12.5 mV (licochalcone A) and −1.67 mV (KA). Liposomal licochalcone A and KA showed potent antioxidant activity compared to their native forms. The optimized film dissolved within approximately 15 min on moist skin and showed favorable handling properties. Ex vivo studies revealed significantly higher skin deposition of both KA and licochalcone A from the liposomal mask compared with free and liposomal dispersions (p < 0.05). In a 7-day clinical evaluation, the mask significantly improved skin hydration and reduced melanin index (p < 0.05). No irritation or adverse reactions were observed, and user satisfaction was high. This liposomal dissolvable mask offered an effective, well-tolerated, and eco-friendly approach to enhancing skin brightness and hydration, supporting its potential as a sustainable cosmeceutical innovation. Full article

Pesticides have been widely applied in agricultural practices over the past decades to protect crops from pests and other harmful organisms. However, their extensive use results in the contamination of soil, water, and agricultural products, posing significant risks to human and environmental health. Exposure to pesticides can lead to skin irritation, respiratory disorders, and various chronic health problems. Moreover, pesticides frequently enter surface water bodies such as rivers and lakes through agricultural runoff and leaching processes. Therefore, developing effective analytical methods for the rapid and sensitive detection of pesticides in food and water is of great importance. Electrochemical sensing techniques have shown remarkable progress in pesticide analysis due to their high sensitivity, simplicity, and potential for on-site monitoring. Two-dimensional (2D) carbon nanomaterials have emerged as efficient electrocatalysts for the precise and selective detection of pesticides, owing to their large surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and unique structural features. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in the electrochemical detection of pesticides using 2D carbon-based materials. Comprehensive information on electrode fabrication, sensing mechanisms, analytical performance—including sensing range and limit of detection—and the versatility of 2D carbon composites for pesticide detection is provided. Challenges and future perspectives in developing highly sensitive and selective electrochemical sensing platforms are also discussed, highlighting their potential for simultaneous pesticide monitoring in food and environmental samples. Carbon-based electrochemical sensors have been the subject of many investigations, but their practical application in actual environmental and food samples is still restricted because of matrix effects, operational instability, and repeatability issues. In order to close the gap between laboratory research and real-world applications, this review critically examines sensor performance in real-sample conditions and offers innovative approaches for in situ pesticide monitoring. Full article

Puerarin is a naturally occurring isoflavone with reported anticancer activity, yet its topical translation is constrained by limited stability and suboptimal dermal delivery. A Puerarin-loaded proniosomal gel was developed as a potential dermal delivery platform, and we performed an initial assessment of its antimelanoma activity and safety. The gel was produced by coacervation–phase separation using Span 60, Tween 80, phosphatidylcholine, and cholesterol. Physicochemical characterization included pH, entrapment efficiency, rheology, FTIR, DSC, and vesicle properties (DLS, PDI, ζ-potential). In silico geometry optimization and docking were carried out for melanoma-associated targets (MITF and DNMT3B). Biological effects were investigated in vitro on A375 melanoma cells using MTT, morphological analysis, and nuclear/mitochondrial staining, while irritation potential was evaluated in ovo by HET-CAM. The optimized formulation exhibited a skin-compatible pH and an entrapment efficiency of 62 ± 0.26%. DLS indicated a multimodal population, with a major number-weighted vesicle population in the 100–200 nm range, and a ζ-potential of −34.9 ± 0.14 mV. FTIR and DSC supported component incorporation without evidence of chemical incompatibility. The gel showed non-Newtonian, pseudoplastic, thixotropic flow, which is advantageous for topical use. Docking predicted meaningful affinities of Puerarin toward MITF and DNMT3B. The formulation reduced A375 viability in a dose-dependent manner (to 44.66% at 200 µg/mL) and, at higher concentrations, produced nuclear condensation and disruption of the mitochondrial network. HET-CAM classified the gel as non-irritant. The Puerarin-loaded proniosomal gel represents a promising topical platform with preliminary in vitro antimelanoma cytotoxic potential, warranting additional studies to validate skin delivery, efficacy, and safety. Full article

Surfactants are commonly employed in cleaning, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical formulations due to their ability to lower surface tension and facilitate the formation of emulsions, foams, and dispersions. Recent research highlights the advantages of synergistic interactions between anionic and nonionic surfactants to improve overall performance. In this study, the physicochemical properties and performance of binary mixtures of the anionic surfactant sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and the amphoteric surfactant lauryl dimethyl amine oxide (LDAO) at varying ratios (100% SLS, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30, 60:40, and 50:50) were investigated. Key parameters analysed included critical micelle concentration (CMC), surface tension (γ), foam volume, and potential irritability, assessed via the Zein test. The results revealed a clear synergistic effect between SLS and LDAO: all mixtures showed reduced CMC and minimum surface tension compared to the individual surfactants, while exhibiting enhanced foam volume and stability. Regarding irritability, increasing LDAO content consistently led to decreased protein denaturation, indicating lower irritancy levels. Furthermore, the results obtained in the Zein test confirmed that mixtures induced less protein denaturation than the sum of their individual surfactant components, with formulations ranging from moderately to non-irritating. The results obtained indicate that the more stable mixed micelle systems (SLS + LDAO) might improve the performance of cleaning formulations (γ, CMC, foam) while reducing the irritability. Full article

Integrating antibacterial fabrics into wearable technology represents a transformative advancement in healthcare, fashion, and personal hygiene. Antibacterial fabrics, designed to inhibit microbial growth, are gaining prominence due to their potential to reduce infections, enhance durability, and maintain cleanliness in wearable devices. These fabrics offer effective antimicrobial properties while retaining comfort and functionality by incorporating nanotechnology and advanced materials, such as silver nanoparticles, zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, and graphene. The production techniques for antibacterial textiles range from chemical and physical surface modifications to biological treatments, each tailored to achieve long-lasting antibacterial performance while preserving fabric comfort and breathability. Advanced methods such as nanoparticle embedding, sol–gel coating, electrospinning, and green synthesis approaches have shown significant promise in enhancing antibacterial efficacy and material compatibility. Wearable technology, including fitness trackers, smart clothing, and medical monitoring devices, relies on prolonged skin contact, making the prevention of bacterial colonization essential for user safety and product longevity. Antibacterial fabrics address these concerns by reducing odor, preventing skin irritation, and minimizing the risk of infection, especially in medical applications such as wound dressings and patient monitoring systems. Despite their potential, integrating antibacterial fabrics into wearable technology presents several challenges. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the key antibacterial agents, the production strategies used to fabricate antibacterial textiles, and their emerging applications in wearable technologies. It also highlights the need for interdisciplinary research to overcome current limitations and promote the development of sustainable, safe, and functional antibacterial fabrics for next-generation wearable. Full article

Plant-derived exosome-like extracellular vesicles (PELVs) have recently emerged as novel bioactive materials. Although members of the Orchidaceae family have been reported to possess various biological activities and are widely used as cosmetic ingredients, no studies to date have investigated exosome-like extracellular vesicles derived from Phalaenopsis species. In the present study, we report for the first time a novel exosome-like extracellular vesicles preparation isolated from Phalaenopsis aphrodite (called Exorigin^® OR) and characterize its physical and biological properties. The purified vesicles exhibited a spherical shape surrounded by a bilayered membrane with an average particle size of approximately 98 nm and expressed a CD9 marker. Fluorescent labeling with BODIPY TR indicated that Exorigin^® OR can be internalized by cells. In in vitro assays, Exorigin^® OR alleviated hydrogen peroxide-induced damage in keratinocytes and inhibited melanin production in melanocytes, possibly associated with the downregulation of Tyrp1 expression as shown by qPCR analysis. Moreover, reconstructed human epidermis and cornea-like epithelium models demonstrated that Exorigin^® OR is non-irritant. Collectively, these findings suggest that Exorigin^® OR represent a promising and safe bioactive ingredient for promoting skin health in cosmeceutical applications. Full article

This study evaluated the skin sensitization of the antimicrobial peptide sublancin to support its safety assessment for topical application. Sensitization was assessed using the guinea pig maximization test (GPMT), in which animals received sublancin (2 mg/kg), vehicle (negative control), or 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (positive control) during induction and challenge phases. Skin reactions (erythema and edema) were recorded after challenge. Irritation was evaluated in rabbits following single and repeated applications of sublancin to intact and abraded skin, with observations made at multiple time points. In the GPMT, no erythema or edema was observed in the sublancin-treated group or negative control group at 24, 48, and 72 h post-challenge, corresponding to a sensitization rate of 0%. All animals in the positive control group exhibited moderate to severe erythema and edema (sensitization rate 100%). In both single- and repeated-dose rabbit irritation tests, sublancin induced no erythema or edema on intact or abraded skin at any observation point, resulting in a total irritation score of 0. Furthermore, no significant differences in the daily weight gain were observed between any experimental group and the negative group (p > 0.05). In conclusion, under the conditions of this study, sublancin showed no skin sensitization potential in guinea pigs and no irritant effects in rabbits, supporting its local tolerance for topical veterinary use. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable cosmetic products and the rapid expansion of the pet care market have driven the search for environmentally friendly, safe, and effective alternatives to conventional formulations. In this study, an ecofriendly solid shampoo for pets was developed using exclusively natural ingredients and a microbial biosurfactant produced by Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 as a surface-active component. The biosurfactant was combined with renewable anionic and nonionic surfactants, conditioning agents, natural oils and butters, and minimal water content to obtain a compact, solid formulation. The shampoo was produced through a controlled multi-phase process and subsequently characterized by physicochemical, microbiological, toxicological, and performance analyses. The formulation exhibited stable pH values suitable for pet skin, low moisture content, absence of free alkalinity, high solid content, and satisfactory foaming capacity. Cleaning efficiency tests demonstrated effective removal of artificial sebum from pet fur while preserving softness and shine. Microbiological assays confirmed the absence of bacterial and fungal contamination, and toxicological evaluations revealed no cytotoxicity and low eye irritation potential. In addition, the shampoo showed 100% biodegradability and maintained physicochemical and organoleptic stability over six months of storage. Overall, the results demonstrate that the developed solid shampoo represents an innovative, safe, and biodegradable alternative that reduces water consumption and plastic packaging, contributing to sustainable development in the pet cosmetics sector. Full article

Achieving optimal skin penetration with bioactive cosmetic ingredients, such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), presents ongoing challenges. This study introduces a novel elastosome-based EGF delivery system co-loading dexpanthenol, which achieves superior skin penetration and multifunctional cosmetic efficacy compared with a conventional liposome formulation. The EGF FLEXIR-SOME formulation was characterized to determine its physicochemical properties measured for comparison against a conventional liposome control. Efficacy and safety were confirmed through in vitro and in vivo evaluations, including clinical trials of the formulation and primary skin irritation tests. The formulated EGF FLEXIR-SOME particles exhibited an average diameter of 124.8 nm and a zeta potential of −57.53 mV, demonstrating enhanced stability and skin penetration relative to the control. The results of clinical trials confirmed significant efficacy in anti-aging, moisture, skin barrier improvement, and hyperpigmentation reduction. Additionally, primary skin irritation tests classified the product as a non-irritant. In conclusion, an elastosome-based EGF formulation significantly enhances skin penetration and bioavailability. The formulation effectively improves skin elasticity, hydration, and barrier function while simultaneously reducing visible signs of aging and pigmentation. This study successfully developed an innovative formulation utilizing elastosome technology, maximizing the transdermal efficiency and stability of EGF, thereby offering a novel strategy for functional cosmeceutical development. Full article

Heracleum sosnowskyi Manden., or H. sosnowskyi, of the Apiaceae was first cultivated in the USSR in 1947 as a potential fodder plant. Due to the development of cold-resistant cultivars and the characteristics of H. sosnowskyi, it quickly became feral. As a result, H. sosnowskyi began to spread as an aggressive invasive species in the 1970s and 1980s. By the 90s it had become an ecological disaster. As well as forming monocultures and displacing native species, H. sosnowskyi contains furanocoumarins, photosensitizing compounds that increase skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays and cause severe burns. In addition, furanocoumarins have cytotoxic, genotoxic, mutagenic and estrogenic effects. H. sosnowskyi also contains essential oils, which are particularly active during flowering and can irritate the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory tract, as well as cause allergic reactions in the form of bronchospasm in people with asthma and hypersensitivity. When released in high concentrations, these biologically active compounds have an allelopathic effect on native plant species, displacing them and reducing biodiversity. As H. sosnowskyi is not native; the biologically active compounds it secretes have a xenobiotic effect, causing serious damage to the ecosystems it occupies. However, in parallel with these negative properties, furanocoumarins have been found to be effective in the treatment of cancer and skin diseases. Furanocoumarins possess antimicrobial antioxidant osteo- and neuroprotective properties. Essential oils containing octyl acetate, carboxylic acid esters, and terpenes can be used in the pharmaceutical industry as antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agents. Additionally, essential oils can be used as biofumigants and natural herbicides. A comprehensive approach allows H. sosnowskyi to be viewed in two ways. On the one hand, it is an aggressive alien species that causes significant damage to ecosystems and poses a threat to human health. On the other hand, it is a potentially valuable natural resource whose biomass can be used within the principles of the circular economy. It is hoped that the use of H. sosnowskyi for economic interests can be a partial compensation for the problem of its aggressive invasion, which is of anthropogenic origin. Full article

Aeromycoflora present in the library environment is known to play a significant role in triggering allergies and contributing to the deterioration of both cellulosic and non-cellulosic materials within the intramural setting of the Midnapore College Library. Fungal spores not only accelerate the aging and degradation of books but also pose considerable health risks to students, library visitors, and staff. In total, 480 fungal colonies belonging to 15 genera and 28 species were recorded using the culture plate exposure method. The predominant taxa included Aspergillus/Penicillium, Alternaria alternata, Alternaria solani, Cladosporium cladosporioides, Curvularia lunata, Penicillium oxalicum, Epicoccum sp., Fusarium solanii, Fusarium oxysporum, Periconia sp., Rhizopus sp., and other Penicillium species. Many of these fungi are well-documented allergens and have been reported to cause adverse health manifestations—such as respiratory discomfort and skin irritation—among students, teaching staff, and book handlers exposed to airborne mycobiota. The present study aimed to investigate the aeromycological diversity within the Midnapore College Library and to conduct immuno-clinical assessments to identify specific serum IgE using both in vivo and in vitro diagnostic techniques. Individuals frequently visiting the library reported symptoms including eye irritation, headaches, itchy skin, sore throat, and severe asthma. Spearman’s rank correlation analysis revealed a significant association between total and dominant spore concentrations and the health status of affected individuals. Clinico-immunological evaluations confirmed the allergenicity of Aspergillus fumigatus, with 39.5% of atopic individuals showing positive reactions in skin prick tests (SPT). Additionally, three novel sero-reactive proteins were identified, offering valuable insights for local clinicians in diagnosing and managing fungal-induced allergic conditions. Full article

Background: Effective prevention of jellyfish stings is crucial for human safety during marine activities. Traditional protective methods are often limited in terms of coverage area and duration of protection; Methods: This study designed and tested a novel jellyfish-repellent textile by coating waterproof polyester fabric with copper ion-loaded multicompartmental nanoparticles, which repel jellyfish by disrupting their cellular membranes and physiological functions. The nanoparticles were synthesized to enable spatial separation of components, enhance stability, and allow controlled copper ion release. They were applied to the fabric in one step via high-voltage electrostatic spray technology, followed by characterization using SEM and FT-IR. The copper sulfate release profile and nanoparticle adhesion were analyzed. Jellyfish-repellent efficacy was evaluated, along with biocompatibility tests including skin sensitization (Magnusson and Kligman method), skin irritation (Draize test), and cytotoxicity (MTT assay on L929 cells and human dermal fibroblasts). Results: SEM confirmed the formation of uniform multicompartmental nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 2.28 to 3.15 μm. FT-IR verified successful anchoring of Cu²⁺ ions to fabric fibers through coordination with hydroxyl groups. Drug release tests demonstrated water-triggered controlled release of copper ions lasting over 168 h, with nanoparticle retention rates exceeding 70% on all fabrics. The textile showed significant effectiveness in repelling jellyfish. Moreover, no apparent sensitization, irritation, or cytotoxicity was observed. Conclusions: A novel jellyfish-repellent textile was successfully developed using copper ion-loaded multicompartmental nanoparticles. This textile provides a promising solution for preventing jellyfish stings and contributes to the advancement of protective gear for marine activities. Full article

Children’s skin is highly sensitive and prone to irritation, allergies, and infections, requiring special consideration in textile selection. Although clothing serves as a protective barrier, it can also pose a risk when dyed with toxic chemical colourants. This study explores the potential of multifunctional natural dyes as safer alternatives for children’s clothing, particularly for those with dermatological conditions. Cotton knitted fabrics were dyed through exhaustion with extracts of madder root (Rubia tinctorum L.), pomegranate peel (Ppe, Punica granatum L.), oxidised logwood (Logox, Haematoxylum campechianum L.), and tannin from quebracho (Schinopsis lorentzii Griseb.), both individually and in various combinations with or without potassium aluminium sulphate dodecahydrate (alum). The combination of madder and Ppe demonstrated the most promising multifunctional performance, being classified as a weak disinfectant against S. aureus (3.7 log reduction) and showing the highest antioxidant activity (92.6 ± 2.56% 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical reduction), while maintaining excellent results after washing. Moreover, these natural formulations expanded the achievable colour palette from each dye while maintaining moderate wash fastness. The results highlight the relevance of these findings to textile and fashion designers, offering sustainable tools for creating health-conscious, visually appealing garments. This research reinforces the potential of natural dyes and biomordants in developing functional textiles that support children’s wellbeing and environmental responsibility. Full article

Background/Objectives: Baricitinib, a selective JAK1/JAK2 inhibitor, shows therapeutic potential in psoriasis; however, its oral use is associated with systemic adverse effects, encouraging the development of topical formulations. This study aimed at evaluating the influence of petrolatum type on the stability, biopharmaceutical performance, and therapeutic activity of lipid-based formulations containing Baricitinib. Methods: Formulations were prepared with Labrafac^® Lipophile WL 1349 (L) and either liquid (LLV) or solid (LSV) petrolatum at 30% and 60% w/w. Stability, rheology, spreadability, in vitro release, ex vivo permeation, and skin retention were evaluated, along with the safety and efficacy in HET-CAM and imiquimod-induced psoriasis murine models. Results: Only 30% petrolatum formulations remained stable for 60 days. LLV exhibited Newtonian flow, higher spreadability, sustained release (83.7% at 50 h), and superior skin retention (94 µg/g of skin/cm²), whereas LSV showed pseudoplastic behavior, lower spreadability, and reduced release (47.4% at 50 h). Both formulations were non-irritant and improved stratum corneum hydration while reducing transepidermal water loss. In vivo, both reduced erythema, epidermal thickening, edema, and histological alterations, confirming anti-inflammatory efficacy. Conclusions: These results demonstrate that the vehicle occlusivity decisively modulates baricitinib’s release and activity. LLV formulation favored drug retention and enhanced permeation at 24 h. Overall, excipient selection is important in designing safe and effective topical JAK inhibitor formulations. Full article

Background/Objectives: Microbial dysbiosis is implicated with a pathogenic role in both irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and several dermatological conditions. Yet, few studies have assessed a potential overlapping epidemiologic association. We aimed to assess the 1-year prevalence of common dermatologic conditions following an initial IBS diagnosis and to evaluate the reverse association using reciprocal analyses. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study using TriNetX. Patients aged 18–50 with no history of inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease, or infectious intestinal disease were matched 1:1 to healthy controls by demographics and comorbidities. The primary outcome was the prevalence of acne vulgaris, psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, rosacea, vitiligo, alopecia areata, and urticaria 1 year after IBS diagnosis, measured using Odds Ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals. To confirm bidirectionality, reciprocal analyses were performed. Results: Over a 1-year period, IBS patients were less likely to have acne vulgaris (OR: 0.78, CIs: 0.75–0.80) and vitiligo (OR: 0.78, CIs: 0.64–0.95) compared to those without. IBS patients were more likely to have psoriasis (OR: 1.14, CIs: 1.08–1.21), hidradenitis suppurativa (OR: 1.11, CIs: 1.03–1.20), rosacea (OR: 1.10, CIs: 1.03–1.18), and urticaria (OR: 1.27, CIs: 1.21–1.34) compared to healthy controls. No association was found for atopic dermatitis or alopecia areata. In the reciprocal analysis, alopecia areata patients (OR: 0.76, CIs: 0.64–0.90) had a lower prevalence of IBS compared to healthy controls. IBS was shown to occur more frequently in patients with psoriasis (OR: 1.15, CIs: 1.07–1.23), rosacea (OR: 1.23, CIs: 1.15–1.31), and urticaria (OR: 1.06, CIs: 1.01–1.12) compared to healthy controls. No association was seen in patients with acne, atopic dermatitis, hidradenitis suppurativa, and vitiligo. Conclusions: IBS shows a bilateral positive overlapping association with psoriasis, rosacea, and urticaria. Hidradenitis suppurativa showed a positive association only among IBS patients, with no reciprocal relationship. Moreover, our findings suggest that acne and vitiligo were inversely associated with IBS; however, this was not supported in our reciprocal analysis. Although no association was initially found between IBS and alopecia areata, the reciprocal analysis suggests a potential inverse association. No association was seen with atopic dermatitis bilaterally. Clinicians who treat these disorders should be aware of the potential bidirectional association. Full article