Development and efficacy evaluation of cosmetic formulations containing Pequi oil encapsulated in nanostructured systems

• Grant number: 21/11000-8
• Support type: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)
• Effective date (Start): August 01, 2022
• Effective date (End): February 28, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Pharmacy - Pharmaceutical Technology
• Principal researcher: Patrícia Maria Berardo Gonçalves Maia Campos
• Grantee: Letícia Kakuda
• Home Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (FCFRP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Ribeirão Preto , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Consumers' search for cosmetics based on natural raw materials has increased significantly in the recent years, also as public and private incentives aimed at prospecting ingredients and developing sustainable formulations. In this scenario, Brazilian biodiversity has an enormous potential for application in the development of innovative cosmetic products. The oil extracted from the species Caryocar brasiliense Cambess, native to the Brazilian Cerrado and popularly known as Pequi, is recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and maintenance of the skin's barrier function actions due to the rich composition of secondary metabolites like polyphenols and primary ones like the oleic acid. Thus, it has potential for application in the development of cosmetics for skin and hair care. In this context, the aim of this proposal is to obtain, characterize and encapsulate Pequi oil for application in the development of cosmetic formulations for skin and hair care, and to evaluate the physical mechanical properties and clinical efficacy of these formulations. In this context, the nanoencapsulated pequi oil in appropriate lipid systems and dried through the lyophilization or spray drying technique will be applied in the development of cosmetic formulations for skin and hair care, which will be submitted to clinical efficacy and mechanical properties studies. The effectiveness will be evaluated in relation to hydration, protection, viscoelastic properties, microrelief and morphological and structural characteristics of the skin using biophysical and image techniques. In addition, hair care formulations will be subjected to efficacy studies in improving the mechanical strength, shine and morphology of the hair fiber. (AU)