Formulating Sustainable Emulsions: Mandelic Acid and Essential Oils as Natural Preservatives

Area of Science:

• Cosmetic Science
• Dermatology
• Microbiology

Background:

• Natural antimicrobials in cosmetic emulsions are gaining popularity for topical applications.
• Mandelic Acid offers potent exfoliating properties beneficial for skincare.
• Essential oils provide cosmetic benefits like pleasant fragrance and antimicrobial effects without irritation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To formulate and evaluate cosmetic emulsions containing Mandelic Acid and essential oils (Satureja montana, Lemongrass, Litsea cubeba).
• To assess the preservative effectiveness and impact on skin biophysical properties of these formulations.

Main Methods:

• Formulation of emulsions with Mandelic Acid and selected essential oils.
• Microbiological testing for preservative efficacy.
• Non-invasive skin diagnostics (hydration, transepidermal water loss, pH).
• Sensory analysis of formulations.

Main Results:

• Emulsions containing Mandelic Acid alone or with Litsea Cubeba Oil demonstrated superior performance.
• Antimicrobial efficacy tests confirmed the preservative effectiveness of the best formulations.
• Skin condition monitoring showed desirable biophysical effects.

Conclusions:

• Cosmetic emulsions incorporating Mandelic Acid and specific essential oils possess significant preservative activity.
• These formulations exhibit favorable biophysical efficacy on the skin, supporting their use in topical cosmetic products.