The role of bacterial cellulose loaded with plant phenolics in prevention of UV-induced skin damage

Abstract

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a biopolymer with high water retention capacity, skin permeability, and biocompatibility, becoming one of the most suitable delivery systems of plant phenolic compounds. Some of these compounds are well known antioxidants capable of inducing photoprotection. Hence, the association between BC and plant phenolics may be an innovative solution for preventing skin damage caused by UV radiation. Despite this promising application, many challenges are related to the development and dermatological use of BC-loaded with plant phenolics. The present review addresses the factors that influence the biosorption of plant phenolic compounds by BC and the role of phenolic compounds in prevention of UV-induced skin damage. This review further elaborates on the delivery mechanisms and additional benefits (antioxidant, antimicrobial, healing, and anti-aging) of the BC-phenolics complex. Overall, the comprehension of the intrinsic mechanisms of plant phenolics biosorption and release by BC, associated with advances in the use of new cellulose sources complexed with phenolics, may improve product formulations for dermatological use and stimulate the development of biopolymers with high biological activity.

Keywords

• Photochemical preventive cosmetics
• Bioavailability of compounds
• Biomaterials
• Bioactive compounds
• Transdermal administration