Emulsion composed by sunflower oil (Helianthus annus L.) with liquid crystals: evaluation of physical-chemical properties and cosmetic activity

Author(s)

José Fernando Topan

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: Ribeirão Preto.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto (PCARP/BC)
• Defense date: 2012-03-16

Examining board members

Pedro Alves da Rocha Filho; Edemilson Cardoso da Conceição; Lorena Rigo Gaspar Cordeiro

• Advisor: Pedro Alves da Rocha Filho

Abstract

Emulsions are dispersed systems consisting of at least two immiscible liquid phases and an emulsifying agent to stabilize them. The dispersed phase of these systems is known as the internal phase and the dispersing environ is the external phase, which are, however, thermodynamically unstable systems. The presence of liquid crystals increases the stability of these dispersions and also change the viscosity. They are able to promote the encapsulation of active, allowing sustained release as well as the protection of photo-and thermo-sensitive drugs. Sunflower oil is an interesting phase in an oily emulsion, because it has healing properties due to the high concentration of linoleic acid, and antioxidant properties due to the presence of polyphenols and vitamin E. They have applications in different areas such as cosmetics, food, medicines and other vehicles. The objectives of this study were to develop stable emulsions containing liquid crystals from a mixture of sunflower oil (Helianthus annus L.) and mineral (mineral oil), characterize them and evaluate the influence of different fatty esters in the formation of liquid crystals. The formulations were developed using the method of diagram and ternary pseudo-diagram, from which we selected two formulations that have been demonstrated stable and presented as liquid crystals throughout the accelerated stability test. They were doped with polyphenols glycolic extracts and acid esters, and have been kept stable with liquid crystal. At the rheological characterization was observed pseudo-plastic flow and thixotropic, ideal for pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Sunflower oil showed antioxidant activity even when heated to the emulsification process by the radical DPPHo method. The carbon chains of fatty esters used in cosmetics can influence the formation and maintenance of liquid crystals. In vivo tests showed that the formulations developed promoted prolonged increase in skin hydration and were not seen signs of skin irritation. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 09/04584-1 - Development and evaluation of emulsions containing liquid crystals based on sunflower oil: study of the influence adding different esters
• Grantee: José Fernando Topan
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master