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Sustainable cosmetic films: it is the new patent from the University of Bologna to produce highly innovative products in the cosmetics field. These are films (thin films) based on natural polymers containing different types of encapsulated natural extracts which are hydrated and transform into gel upon application. A new type of cosmetic products, obtained from ingredients of natural origin, without preservatives and antioxidants, with little packaging to dispose of, created at the Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology of the University of Bologna, from the work of Professor Teresa Cerchiara and Doctor Valentina Sallustio .
There are many possible uses, for example for anti-aging, anti-acne products, with a hydrating action or protective function. «The natural bioactive substances of the extracts are well known, but they are often easily oxidized and therefore unstable: for this reason, the addition of antioxidant substances is required in cosmetic formulations – explain the inventors -. The development of sustainable cosmetic films allows us to overcome these limitations of natural extracts.”
The use of natural extract encapsulation technology improves the stability and effectiveness of bioactive substances. And at the same time, the use of natural polymers improves the application of the product and allows a synergistic action with natural extracts. All this while limiting the use of preservatives, lightening the packaging and consequently the environmental impact.
«This innovation offers consumers skincare products with proven effectiveness, as they are obtained from ingredients of well-known natural origin, and highly tolerable, thanks to the absence of synthetic preservatives and antioxidants – add the inventors -. On the other hand, the producer can count on a limited number of easily available raw materials, and on the need for minimal packaging, with significantly reduced transport costs and advantages for protecting the environment.”