From Plant to Skin: Exploring Alnus glutinosa Extracts for Cosmeceutical Applications

Area of Science:

• Cosmetic Science
• Phytochemistry
• Dermatology

Background:

• Natural compounds are increasingly sought for cosmeceutical applications.
• Alnus glutinosa (black alder) possesses bioactive compounds with potential skin benefits.
• Evaluating plant extracts in cosmetic formulations is crucial for developing effective skincare products.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the photoprotective and antioxidant potential of cosmetic emulsions containing Alnus glutinosa extracts.
• To compare different extraction methods for isolating bioactive compounds from Alnus glutinosa.
• To assess the stability and efficacy of Alnus glutinosa-enriched emulsions for skin protection.

Main Methods:

• Extraction of Alnus glutinosa using Soxhlet, ultrasound-assisted, and microwave-assisted techniques with ethanol and water.
• Phytochemical characterization using UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, and LC-HRMS.
• Formulation of oil-in-water emulsions and assessment of antioxidant activity (DPPH assay), stability (pH, viscosity), and color (L*a*b*).

Main Results:

• Ethanol-based Soxhlet extraction yielded the highest concentration of bioactive compounds.
• Alnus glutinosa extracts demonstrated significant antioxidant and photoprotective efficacy.
• The formulated emulsions exhibited good stability and antioxidant properties.

Conclusions:

• Alnus glutinosa extracts possess valuable antioxidant and photoprotective properties suitable for cosmetic applications.
• Ethanol-based Soxhlet extraction is an effective method for obtaining potent Alnus glutinosa extracts.
• Alnus glutinosa-enriched emulsions represent promising multifunctional, plant-derived cosmeceuticals for enhanced skin protection.