[Collagen and its technological possibilities]

Collagen enjoys a privileged position as a biomaterial in its cosmetic applications. It exists under different forms and is more particularly able to reticulate. The process which is used allows a modulated reticulation. This means that a collagenous matrix having a varying degree of solubility can be obtained, which can lend itself to different applications. The prilling technique consists in producing microspheres consisting of a more or less reticulated collagenous matrix being able or not to imprison an insoluble or lipophilic active substance having previously been incorporated in the original solution. In this way, it is possible to obtain either strongly reticulated and mechanically resistant microspheres of particles which dissolve when crushed. The cosmetic significance of these new products is connected with the biocompatibility characteristics of the collagenous material and with the characteristics relating to the modulated reticulation of the obtained product.