Sourcing sustainable bio-cosmetics: Potential lies in microalgae and bacteria communication

21 Oct 2022 --- The signals and interactions between microalgae and bacteria have been found to produce multifunctional bioproducts compliant with current economic and low-carbon guidelines for environmental protection, states a Brazil-based study. As a result, the researchers highlight possibilities for developing dermatological formulations for skincare creams or gels and for treating acne.

Despite the promising potential of the microorganisms, the authors say that more research is required for an in-depth evaluation of the mechanisms of interaction between microalgae and bacteria and large-scale cultures for biotechnological applications.

Enhancing interactions
Microalgae and bacteria communicate by quorum sensing – responding to cell population density – that can change the metabolism of the organisms. The study stresses that understanding the interactions between different species can bring about new molecules and improve the production of known molecules.Understanding the interactions between different species of microalgae and bacteria can bring about new molecules.

Moreover, knowing about possible interactions between bacteria and algae can allow for more control of the mechanisms and better support the exchanges. This is important as it can enhance the development of bioprocesses and the production of bio-compounds, such as carotenoids, lipids and carbohydrates with high added value, highlight the researchers.

Knowing those molecules’ structures and how they affect other organisms can help develop cosmetic products, health, food and nutritional ingredients. “Efforts are necessary to develop such useful products, increasing the world microalgae demand, and contributing to the sustainable production of industrial products,” say the authors.

Alternative sunscreen
The demand for safe products via bioprocesses has made microalgae an environmentally sustainable source for new products. The authors note that algae produce several metabolites which benefit the skin.

“Algae cells are naturally exposed to oxidative stress, which makes them develop efficient protection systems against radicals and reactive oxygen species, producing biomolecules that may act in cosmetics against the damaging effects of UV radiation, promoting the same action of inorganic filters and organic agents currently commercialized,” they highlight.

Moreover, Chlorella vulgaris, Arthrospira, and Nostoc increase the production of carotenoids and chlorophyll when growing in the presence of radiation.

“These biomolecules can help to protect against the oxidative process of oil in formulations, especially in emulsions with a large quantity of oily phase, as they have antioxidant activities. Such properties of microalgae can be used for developing sunscreens or skincare,” continue the researchers.

Antimicrobial potential
Microalgae can also provide antimicrobial agents. Biofilms are known to be related to infections, and microalgae may offer solutions.Microalgae can provide sunscreen, antimicrobial and protein alternatives.

For instance, Arthrospira platensis extracts feature antibiofilm activities and are abundant in free fatty acids.

“The nanocarriers based on copper alginate loaded with extract were able to inhibit the formation of biofilms from one and two species of Cutibacterium acnes but did not inhibit preformed biofilms. Nanovectorized extracts reduced the growth of Candida albicans biofilms and preformed biofilms,” share the researchers.

Proteins for “high industrial potential”
Moreover, protein molecules in microalgae can be used as alternatives to plant and animal proteins used in cosmetic formulations. The authors note that this opens opportunities for research with “high industrial potential”

“Polysaccharides and carotenoids are other macromolecules in microalgae with high potential to be used in cosmetic formulations. Such compounds can act on the cosmetic formulation, changing their properties, protecting and or stabilizing them. These molecules can also act in the skin, avoiding its water loss and nourishing it,” they add.

Changing the source of raw materials can also change formulation properties that affect the conservation of formulations and the skin microbiota. The researchers note that factoring in sebum and hydration levels per age and skin groups with acne is essential when incorporating microalgae and their extracts in cosmetic formulations.

By Venya Patel

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