Search Results (7,493)

(1) Background: Low-molecular-weight hyaluronic acid displays moisturizing and anti-aging properties and reduces UV-induced inflammation when applied topically. A 3 kDa sodium hyaluronate oligosaccharide (Extra-Low HA) was designed, and studies were performed to evaluate its safety for cosmetic applications. (2) Methods: The ability of the Extra-Low HA (ExLMW-HA) to penetrate skin was evaluated. Then, pro-inflammatory cytokines were quantified in the culture medium of skin explants following ExLMW-HA application with or without inflammation inducer (PMA). Finally, four predictive in vitro tests (Keratinosens^™, kDPRA, Ames’ test, micronucleus test) were conducted to assess the safety of ExLMW-HA. (3) Results: The molecule permeates skin down to the living epidermis and possibly interacts with the dermal compartment. The oligosaccharide did not induce TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-1α, CXCL2, CCL3, or IL-15, neither in basal nor in stressed conditions. ExLMW-HA is not predicted to be a skin sensitizer or a mutagenic or genotoxic substance. (4) Conclusions: This 3 kDA HA is considered safe for use in topical application at the tested dosage. Full article

Facial aesthetic surgery has evolved from early reconstructive efforts to highly refined, technology-driven practice. This educational review explores the historical development of key procedures, including rhinoplasty, blepharoplasty, and facelifts, and connects these milestones to modern innovations including artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and three-dimensional planning. By linking past techniques to current approaches, this work highlights how foundational surgical principles continue to guide safe, precise, and patient-centered aesthetic care. Full article

Substantial agro-industrial waste is generated by the food industry, including pistachio green hulls (PGH), which can constitute 40% to 60% of the fresh fruit weight. This by-product contains bioactive functional components, especially phenolic compounds (PCs). An overview of research focused on PCs extracted from PGH is presented, highlighting their chemical composition, extraction methods, compound identification, and antioxidant and antibacterial activities. Extraction techniques such as ultrasound, microwave-assisted extraction, and solid-state fermentation are utilized, with mild organic solvents like water, ethanol, methanol, or their mixtures employed. The quantification of PCs is commonly performed using the Folin–Ciocalteu assay, HCl-Butanol technique, and aluminum chloride colorimetric assays. Furthermore, identification of compounds is generally accomplished through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or gas chromatography (GC), often coupled with mass spectrometry or photodiode-array detectors to enhance accuracy and reliability. Gallic acid, kaempferol, quercetin, cyanidin, and catechin are the main PCs identified, with their antioxidant activity validated by ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and FRAP (ferric-reducing antioxidant power) assays. Antibacterial effectiveness has been demonstrated against bacteria using disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration methods. These findings indicate potential uses of PGH by-products in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries, contributing to a circular economy and enhancing agro-industrial waste management. Full article

Background: Acorus calamus (sweet flag) is widely used in traditional medicine, yet its dermal safety profile remains insufficiently defined under modern regulatory standards. Objective: To comprehensively evaluate the skin irritation, corrosion, and sensitisation potential of A. calamus rhizome oil using new approach methodologies’ (NAMs) test batteries under GLP conditions. Results: The A. calamus rhizome oil was predicted as a Category 2 skin irritant, non-corrosive and GHS Category 1B skin sensitiser. Chemical analysis revealed β-asarone as the major constituent (~40.75%). The reconstructed human epidermis models established reversible irritation without corrosion. Mechanistic concordance across the Direct Peptide Reactivity Assay, KeratinoSens™, and Human Cell Line Activation Test showed activation of the three key events of the skin sensitisation adverse outcome pathway. Using the “2-out-of-3” Defined Approach with the KE 3/1 sequential strategy allowed for hazard classification into GHS Category 1B. Quantitative risk modelling using SARA-ICE models and SCCS parameters yielded conservative safe-use concentrations ranging from 0.13 to 0.78% (w/w) for leave-on products and up to 7.46% (w/w) for rinse-off formulations. Conclusions: The combined evidence from the NAM-based assays showed that A. calamus rhizome oil is a moderate sensitiser and irritant but not corrosive, providing critical data for risk assessment and regulatory decision-making, which was previously unknown. The SARA-ICE PoD-derived safe-use concentrations provide guidance for cosmetic formulators to ensure consumer safety, particularly in leave-on applications such as face and hand creams, where sensitisation risk is highest. This study demonstrates the utility of NAMs for botanical safety assessment and regulatory decision-making. Full article

Microbial bioconversion of agro-industrial by-products into high-value-added metabolites such as polysaccharides or lipids serves a dual purpose: mitigating environmental pollution through waste reduction and supporting the development of novel bioproducts. In this study, a non-conventional, poorly studied Cryptococcus albidus strain was initially assessed for its ability to grow on semi-defined media containing lactose, glycerol, or glucose under three distinct nitrogen availability conditions at C/N equal to 20, 80, and 160 mol/mol in shake flask cultures. The goal was to evaluate biomass production and synthesis of valuable metabolites under these conditions. C. albidus demonstrated robust growth on all commercial carbon sources, particularly under nitrogen-rich conditions, producing more than 25.0 g/L of microbial biomass with a high intracellular polysaccharide content (>45%, w/w). Additionally, mannitol production was detected in cultures with glycerol and glucose (9.1 and 13.1 g/L, respectively), especially after nitrogen depletion. Subsequently, C. albidus and a Cutaneotrichosporon curvatus strain were batch-cultivated using pretreated secondary cheese whey (SCW) as a carbon-rich waste substrate. When cultivated on SCW, both yeast strains partially metabolized lactose and produced polysaccharide-rich biomass, dominated by β-glucans (>29% of total biomass), compounds known for their functional and bioactive properties. The cellular polysaccharides (cPS extracted from C. albidus exhibited cytotoxic effects against cancer cells, suggesting their potential use as biological response modifiers. In contrast, the cPS from C. curvatus did not affect cell viability, indicating their promise as ingredients for applications in the food, feed, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic sectors. Full article

The integration of extremophile-derived bioactives into cosmeceuticals and nutricosmetics offers a novel strategy to enhance skin health through both topical and systemic approaches. Extremophile microorganisms, adapted to extreme conditions, produce unique compounds such as ectoine, extremozymes, carotenoids, exopolysaccharides (EPSs), and mycosporine-like amino acids (MAAs). These molecules exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, photoprotective, and regenerative properties. This review analyzes the molecular adaptations that enable extremophiles to synthesize these compounds, and explores their cosmetic applications, including enzymatic exfoliation, UV protection, hydration, and anti-pollution effects. This paper examines their nutraceutical potential, highlighting systemic benefits such as improved skin elasticity, reduced photoaging, and modulation of the gut–skin axis via prebiotic EPSs. Industrial strategies for sustainable production, such as microbial fermentation, synthetic biology, and green extraction, are discussed. Examples of commercial ingredients like PlusXanthin™, Antarctic-G, and Desertica. Extremophile-derived ingredients combine biological efficacy with environmental sustainability, positioning them as key assets for next-generation skincare. Future directions include clinical validation, regulatory harmonization, and the development of personalized, microbiome-friendly formulations. Full article

Plants are a valuable source of natural compounds with diverse applications. Recently, increased attention has focused on waste products from the agricultural industry, including walnut husk. Given its potential as a sustainable source of bioactives, this work characterizes the alcoholic Juglans regia “Sorrento” walnut husk extract (WHE). The extract’s phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and phytochemical composition were evaluated using spectrophotometry and UHPLC-HRMS-based untargeted metabolomics analysis. WHE exhibited a high total phenolic content (TPC = 1.45 ± 0.03 mg GAE/g dry extract) and a rich profile of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins. Given this composition, WHE’s biological activity was further tested in an in vitro human keratinocyte (HaCaT) model. At the concentration of 10 μg/mL, WHE showed no cytotoxicity and displayed significant antioxidant properties by modulating detoxifying proteins such as Nrf2. WHE also influenced mitochondrial metabolism, increased maximum respiration, preserved barrier integrity, and activated pathways for epithelial homeostasis. Overall, this study highlights the bioactivity of the J. regia “Sorrento” walnut husk extract. These findings support the valorization of walnut husk as a sustainable source of bioactives for dermatological and cosmetic products. Full article

Background: Piper nigrum L. (PNL) is a rich source of piperine, a bioactive alkaloid with pharmaceutical, cosmetic, nutritional supplement, and agricultural applications, yet efficient and sustainable extraction methods remain underexplored. Methods: This study compared ultrasonic bath extraction (UBE) and ultrasonic probe extraction (UPE) using natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) for isolating piperine from PNL fruits. Six NADES formulations were screened, with NADES-5 (choline chloride:glycerin:urea, 1:1:1) showing superior performance. Response surface methodology with a Box–Behnken design optimized extraction parameters, including liquid-to-solid ratio, extraction time, temperature, and water content, for both UBE and UPE. Results: Optimized UPE consistently outperformed UBE, yielding 49.97 mg/g of piperine versus 25.67 mg/g under identical NADES conditions. Comprehensive characterization using TLC, HPTLC, UV, FTIR, Raman, HPLC, NMR, XRD, SEM, and EDX confirmed the successful isolation and structural integrity of piperine, with samples obtained via UPE exhibiting higher purity (98.7% vs. 95.2%) and enhanced crystallinity. In vitro cytotoxicity assays demonstrated that piperine extracted by UPE showed stronger activity against C2C12 myoblasts (IC₅₀: 24.3 μg/mL vs. 40.6 μg/mL) and greater anticancer effects in MCF-7 and HT-29 cells compared to piperine extracted by UBE. Antioxidant evaluation via DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and TAC assays, along with intracellular reactive oxygen and nitrogen species suppression in THP-1 and RAW 264.7 macrophages, further confirmed the superior biological potential of the UPE-derived piperine sample. Conclusions: These findings indicate that UPE using NADES is a sustainable approach for high-yield piperine extraction with enhanced purity and bioactivity, supporting its potential for pharmaceutical applications. Full article

Globba sirirugsae Saensouk & P.Saensouk, known in Thai as Hong Hoen Sirirugsa, is a rare Zingiberaceae species with considerable potential for ornamental horticulture and phytopharmaceutical development. Despite its promising attributes, comprehensive studies on its micropropagation, bioactivities, and phytochemical composition remain limited. This study investigated the efficiency of in vitro propagation using rhizome-derived plantlets cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with various concentrations of BA, kinetin, and NAA. The highest shoot proliferation (5.67 shoots) was achieved with 4 mg/L BA and 0.5 mg/L NAA, while acclimatization in a soil–sand substrate (1:1) resulted in a 90% survival rate. Comparative analyses of wild and tissue-cultured plants revealed abundant phenolic and flavonoid contents, particularly in wild specimens, as determined by TPC and TFC assays. HPLC profiling confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds under both growth conditions. Ethanolic extracts exhibited strong antioxidant activities via 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays. GC-MS analysis identified 23 volatile compounds in wild plants and 51 in tissue-cultured plants, with α-pinene, β-pinene, caryophyllene, and α-bergamotene as dominant constituents. FTIR spectroscopy revealed distinct functional groups and fingerprint regions, serving as a rapid screening tool for phytochemical accumulation and biological activity. These findings provide a strategic foundation for the conservation and sustainable utilization of Globba sirirugsae as a multifunctional bioresource, with future applications in pharmaceutical innovation, product development, and ornamental landscaping. Full article

Hydrogels have gained significant attention as effective vehicles for transdermal applications offering significant advantages in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications. Their unique polymeric network structure enables efficient encapsulation and controlled release of active ingredients, making them ideal for therapeutic drug delivery systems (TDDs) and topical skincare formulations. In pharmaceutical approaches, hydrogels facilitate the transdermal transport of therapeutic agents into systemic circulation, improving bioavailability and patient compliance. In cosmetics, they enhance skin hydration and support the delivery of bioactive compounds, contributing to improved product performance and user satisfaction. Among various hydrogel-forming polymers, Hyaluronic Acid (HA) stands out as the most often used polymer in this field due to its biocompatibility, moisture-retention properties, and ability to penetrate the skin. This review explores the dual role of HA-based hydrogels in pharmaceutical and cosmetic application, detailing their structural characteristics, preparation methods, and mechanisms of active ingredient loading and release. Furthermore, the review presents the details on hydrogels and how they are used as TDDs. Special attention is given to hyaluronic acid (HA) in this field, and this review discusses the properties, preparation methods, and applications of HA-based hydrogels as a delivery system, including methods of loading the actives and the releasing of these actives from them. Full article

The present study explores novel alternatives for the exploitation of sugarcane bagasse ash by obtaining and modifying SiO₂ nanoparticles through a green synthesis method. The hydrophilic nature of the nanoparticles was modified using oleic acid. The nanoparticles were characterized using FTIR, FESEM, and DLS, and their performance in the stabilization of Pickering emulsions was also studied. FESEM micrographs of the nanoparticles revealed an irregular and agglomerated structure. EDS confirmed that their main components are oxygen and silicon, and ATR-FTIR spectra demonstrated that oleic acid effectively modified the nanoparticles. Subsequently, O/W Pickering emulsions were fabricated by combining rotor–stator homogenization and probe ultra-sonication, using dodecane and liquid paraffin as model oil phases and SiO₂ NPs as stabilizers. Static light scattering measurements showed that the emulsions exhibited polydispersity, while photographic monitoring confirmed that their physical stability was affected by the concentrations of oleic acid and nanoparticles: concentrations of up to 20.0 wt% and 1.0 wt%, respectively, produced emulsions that remained stable for 7 to 15 days. This study identifies the behavior and challenges associated with novel pathways for the valorization of sugarcane bagasse ash. The stabilization of Pickering emulsions using the obtained SiO₂ NPs highlights their potential in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food applications. Full article

Jeju lava (Yongam) seawater, naturally filtered through multi-layered basaltic strata, represents a distinctive marine water type that combines mineral enrichment with isolation from surface contaminants. This study aimed to evaluate its microbial purity and ecological transition during mineral water production. Using 16S rRNA-based metagenomic sequencing, the microbial communities of Yongam seawater, its derived mineral water, and adjacent natural seawater were analyzed and compared. The Yongam seawater microbiome was dominated by Neptuniibacter pectenicola (≈89%), indicating an extremely pristine and selective microbial environment. In contrast, the mineral water exhibited the emergence of Nocardioides marinus and Limnobacter alexandrii, species associated with oxidative metabolism and environmental adaptability, reflecting microbial adjustment to altered ionic and nutrient conditions. Adjacent seawater contained the highest taxonomic diversity, consistent with its dynamic environmental exposure. These results demonstrate the exceptional microbial purity of Jeju Yongam seawater and the ecological stability of its derived mineral water following processing. The pristine nature of Yongam seawater suggests its potential as a naturally uncontaminated marine resource, while the derived mineral water, maintaining a stable microbial profile, may be suitable for safe and functional utilization in marine-based cosmetic, nutraceutical, and biotechnology applications. Full article

Human exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO₂ NPs) is common. These NPs are used in cosmetics, paint, food, and other products. Their nanometric size (<100 nm) allows entry into the bloodstream, from which they can reach organs and cells throughout the body. Although TiO₂ NPs have been reported to damage certain cell lines and organs and to alter cellular function, their impact on human menstrual blood mesenchymal stem cells (hMB-MSCs) is unknown. This study evaluated the effects of TiO₂ NPs on viability, proliferation, morphology, membrane-marker expression, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in primary cultures of hMB-MSCs derived from menstrual blood. Cells were exposed to different concentrations of TiO₂ NPs for 3, 7, and 14 days. TiO₂ NPs decreased hMB-MSC viability and proliferation in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Cellular viability was reduced by up to 6%, 11%, and 18% at 3, 7, and 14 days, respectively (statistically significant vs. control). Cellular proliferation decreased by 3%, 5%, and 33% at 15.63, 62.5, and 250 μg/mL TiO₂, respectively. TiO₂ NPs were internalized and observed in the cytoplasm, forming perinuclear aggregates. NP-exposed cells showed reduced membrane expression of CD73 (7.9% decrease) and CD90 (25.72% decrease) compared with control cells. Finally, TiO₂ NPs at 15.63, 62.5, and 250 µg/mL reduced ROS generation by 56.79%, 62.79%, and 53.35%, respectively, after 4 h (statistically significant vs. control). In summary, exposure to high concentrations of TiO₂ NPs leads to intracellular nanoparticle deposits and alters key functions of human menstrual blood mesenchymal stem cells, including immunomodulation, immune protection, molecular behavior, cell differentiation, and regenerative capacity. Full article

Introduction: Idiopathic gynecomastia is a common diagnosis among adolescents. Closed-suction drain placement after breast resection is traditionally performed to prevent complications such as seroma or hematoma, although its effectiveness remains controversial. Drains are also associated with patient discomfort and may require prolonged wound care. The aim of the present study is to describe our experience with the outpatient surgical treatment of adolescent gynecomastia without closed-suction drain placement and to assess its short- and long-term outcomes. Methods: We conducted a retrospective single-center cohort study including male patients under 18 years of age operated on for idiopathic gynecomastia between 2019 and 2023. Demographic data, clinical features (grade of gynecomastia according to Simon’s classification before surgery), intraoperative variables, and postoperative outcomes were collected. Patients were followed in the outpatient setting, with assessment of early (<30 days) and late complications. Results: A total of 21 consecutive patients were included, with a median age of 14.5 years (range 13.6–17.4). Sixteen patients (76.2%) underwent bilateral mastectomies, and five (23.8%) underwent unilateral subtotal mastectomies. Gynecomastia grade was I in 6 cases (28.6%), II in 12 (57.1%), and III in 3 (14.3%). No intraoperative adverse events occurred. Compressive chest bandaging was performed without closed-suction drainage. All patients were discharged on the same day. Two patients (9.5%) developed mild seroma during follow-up, both resolving spontaneously without aspiration or surgery. Conclusions: Our preliminary findings suggest that outpatient gynecomastia surgery without closed-suction drains appears to be a safe and effective option in adolescents, minimizing discomfort and avoiding hospital admission. However, larger, multicenter comparative studies are warranted to confirm these results and to further evaluate patient satisfaction and long-term cosmetic outcomes. Full article

Cannabidiol (CBD) has garnered interest in its potential antioxidant properties in skin care. This review synthesizes the current literature exploring CBD’s role as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory cosmetic ingredient and its impact on skin health. CBD exhibits antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, and mitigating inflammation, all of which contribute to aging and skin conditions like acne and dermatitis. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system and other cellular pathways to bolster antioxidant defenses in skin cells. The search engines were Google Scholar, Scopus, and PubMed. The search was performed using the main keywords “liposomal CBD and keratinocytes”, “antioxidant properties of CBD and keratinocytes”, “anti-inflammatory activity of CBD and keratinocytes”, “CBD and cosmetics”, “CBD and skin care products”, and “CBD and cosmetic products regulation” for the period 2018–2025. The period for the search of the literature was chosen based on the legalization of medical cannabis. Its non-psychoactive nature and favorable safety profile make CBD a compelling candidate for inclusion in skin care formulations seeking natural and effective antioxidant solutions. As consumer demand for botanical-based skin care rises, CBD stands out for its promising therapeutic benefits and potential applications in anti-aging and dermatological treatments. Despite its benefits, using CBD in cosmetics is not without its challenges. The varying legal status of CBD in various jurisdictions is confusing to both the cosmetic industry and consumers. Some jurisdictions allow CBD to be derived from hemp, while others may prohibit its use. The legal and regulatory status of CBD is a constantly changing matter. The purpose of the article is to review the liposomal forms of encapsulated CBD to increase its percutaneous absorption and therefore its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory effect on keratinocytes. Liposomal CBD firstly bypasses the problems of insolubility of free radicals and secondly protects it from various exogenous oxidizing agents, while maintaining its activity. CBD is a valuable antioxidant agent in skin care science, suggesting avenues for further research and product development. Full article