(Bio)Technological aspects of microalgae pigments for cosmetics

Author(s)

Morocho-Jacome, Ana Lucia ^[1] ; Ruscinc, Nadia ^[1] ; Martinez, Renata Miliani ^[1] ; Monteiro de Carvalho, Joao Carlos ^[2] ; de Almeida, Tania Santos ^[3] ; Rosado, Catarina ^[3] ; Costa, Joao Guilherme ^[3] ; Robles Velasco, Maria Valeria ^[1] ; Baby, Andre Rolim ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Pharmaceut Sci, Dept Pharm, 580 Prof Lineu Prestes Av, B1-15, BR-05508900 Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[2] Univ Sao Paulo, Fac Pharmaceut Sci, Biochem & Pharmaceut Technol Dept, Sao Paulo - Brazil

^[3] CBIOS Univ Lusofonas Res Ctr Biosci & Hlth Techno, Lisbon - Portugal

• Document type: Review article
• Source: Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology; v. 104, n. 22, p. 9513-9522, NOV 2020.
• Web of Science Citations: 0

Abstract

Photosynthetic microorganisms convert carbon dioxide and solar radiation into interesting bioactive compounds not yet entirely explored. Several species of microalgae are known to be rich in colored high-valuable components that, although remarkable, are poorly explored as natural sources of pigments for cosmetics. Pigments associated to photosynthetic activity include chlorophyll, beta-carotene, astaxanthin, xanthophylls, and phycobiliproteins, many of which have shown high potential as cosmetic actives due to their antioxidant, immune-enhancing, and anti-inflammatory properties. In the last decade, concern with a young and beautiful appearance has emerged, encouraging many consumers to use anti-aging cosmetics daily. As a result, the cosmetic market has been growing and evolving rapidly to meet consumer expectations. However, due to regular use and the sensitive nature of facial skin, local adverse reactions may often occur, such as irritation, sensitization, or photoreactions, and safety evaluation is mandatory prior to marketing. It is, therefore, understandable that new actives from natural sources, such as microalgae, are perceived as attractive alternatives for consumers who seek ingredients without allergenic potential. Thus, the cosmetic industry has recently started to explore the inclusion of compounds extracted from microalgae and cyanobacteria in innovative formulations. Herein, we revised nontraditional microalgae species for pigment production with cosmetic applications, indicating those that could also be considered potential ingredients for innovative cosmetics. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 15/11194-6 - PRODUCTION AND EVALUATION OF MICROALGAE AS SUPPLIES FOR COSMETIC INDUSTRY
• Grantee: Ana Lucia Morocho Jacome
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral