Dunaliella species algae are green microalgae known for their exceptional adaptability to extreme environmental conditions, such as high salinity, intense light, and nutrient deficiency. These adaptations are associated with the formation of various secondary metabolites, which are a source of cosmetically active substances with various effects on skin.
In our thesis, we evaluated the effect of Dunaliella species microalgae extract on the barrier function of the skin, specifically on transepidermal water loss and hydration, using a model of pig ear skin embedded in Franz diffusion cells. We evaluated the aqueous solution of the extract, as well as the hydrophilic cream and lyotropic liquid crystals with the incorporated extract at concentrations of 0.1% and 1% (w/w). The formulations of hydrophilic cream and lyotropic liquid crystals with incorporated extract were compared with corresponding blind controls of formulations without extract. Transepidermal water loss was measured using a Tewameter® TM 300, and hydration was measured using a Corneometer® CM 825. Measurements were conducted prior to sample application (baseline) and subsequently at 30, 60, and 90 minutes following sample removal.
The Dunaliella species extract improved skin hydration in all evaluated samples. An enhancement of the skin barrier function, expressed as a reduction in transepidermal water loss, was observed only with the lyotropic liquid crystals. The effect of the extract, particularly with respect to hydration, suggests that the improvement depends on both the concentration and the type of delivery system, with the higher concentration proving more effective. The results confirm the potential of Dunaliella species extract as an active ingredient for improving skin hydration and barrier function.
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