3.3.3. Role of Fatty Acids in Cosmeceuticals

Algae fatty acids and other lipophilic chemicals are also anti-allergic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory [150]. Furthermore, lipids can act as moisturizing ingredients substances, protecting the skin from water loss [151]. Many fatty acids, including lauric acid, myristic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid, can be used as raw materials. Furthermore, FAs are skin components that play a crucial role in the maintenance of skin integrity [152].

Waxes are classified as fatty esters, which are a type of fatty acyl [153]. *Euglena gracilis* is a microalga that produces a large quantity of wax-ester as a byproduct of the biodegradation of storage polysaccharides. These wax-esters are now used in biofuel generation but could possibly be useful in cosmetics [154]. Waxes, for example, are important components in lipsticks because they give the stick sufficient rigidity, hardness, stability, and texture. Today's lipsticks can be made with a range of waxes. Alkenones are a class of lipids, long-chain ketones that are produced by haptophyte microalgae such as *Isochrysis* sp. and employed as structuring agents in some cosmetic preparations in place of animal-derived and petroleum-derived waxes. They are a vegan and recyclable marine-based component that will meet customer demands. Because alkenones can be made in a variety of locales, their supply is not as limited as that of some other waxes. Given their waxy structure and relatively high melting point, alkenones may offer an appealing class of natural chemicals with potential applications in a wide range of cosmetic and skin care products [155]. Table 7 highlights the applications of lipids.


**Table 7.** The seaweeds lipids and their apllications.
