Application of Levan-Rich Digestate Extract in the Production of Safe-to-Use and Functional Natural Body Wash Cosmetics

Abstract

The study focused on the evaluation of the possibility of using a levan-rich digestate extract in the production of safe and functional body wash cosmetics. Model shower gels were designed and formulated on the basis of raw materials of natural origin. Prepared prototypes contained various extract concentrations (16.7; 33; 50%). A gel without extract was used as a reference. The samples were evaluated for their safety in use and functionality. The results showed that the use of high-concentration levan-rich digestate extract in a shower gel resulted in a significant reduction in the negative impact on the skin. For example, the zein value decreased by over 50% in relation to the preparation without the extract. An over 40% reduction in the emulsifying capacity of hydrophobic substances was also demonstrated, which reduces skin dryness after the washing process. However, the presence of the extract did not significantly affect the parameters related to functionality. Overall, it was indicated that levan-rich digestate extract can be successfully used as a valuable ingredient in natural cleansing cosmetics.

Exopolysaccharides Producing Bacteria: A Review

“…Levan nanocomposite films have the potential to be used in industrial and medical fields [ 289 ]. Levan also has appropriate properties for cosmetic applications, for example, in safe and functional body wash cosmetics production [ 290 , 291 ]. Levan has a film-forming potential and high adsorption properties.…”

Levan Production by Suhomyces kilbournensis Using Sugarcane Molasses as a Carbon Source in Submerged Fermentation

“…Levan is an EPS mainly composed of fructose units linked by β-(2,1) bonds [ 9 ] and has a wide range of applications. For example, it is used as an emulsifier, sweetener, and prebiotic in the food industry [ 10 , 11 , 12 ]; as a humectant and an antioxidant in the cosmetics industry [ 13 , 14 ]; and as an anti-inflammatory agent and an immunomodulator in the medical industry and pharmaceutical industries [ 15 , 16 , 17 ]. Levan is considered a novel EPS with a wide range of possible applications; for instance, it can be used as a thickener, stabilizer, fat substitute, or flavoring agent in dairy products because of its non-digestibility, non-toxicity, high stability, and solubility in water and oil; high water-holding capacity; and low intrinsic viscosity.…”