Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.): A potential small mighty giant in the field of cosmeceuticals

Abstract

Background and AimsNatural products are widely used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries due to their high‐value bioactive compounds, which make for “greener” and more environmentally friendly ingredients. These natural compounds are also considered a safer alternative to antibiotics, which may result in antibiotic resistance as well as unfavorable side effects. The development of cosmeceuticals, which combine the cosmetic and pharmaceutical fields to create skincare products with therapeutic value, has increased the demand for unique natural resources. The objective of this review is to discuss the biological properties of extracts derived from larvae of the black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens), the appropriate extraction methods, and the potential of this insect as a novel active ingredient in the formulation of new cosmeceutical products. This review also addresses the biological actions of compounds originating from the BSF, and the possible association between the diets of BSF larvae and their subsequent bioactive composition.MethodsA literature search was conducted using PubMed and Google Scholar to identify and evaluate the various biological properties of the BSF.ResultsOne such natural resource that may be useful in the cosmeceutical field is the BSF, a versatile insect with numerous potential applications due to its nutrient content and scavenging behavior. Previous research has also shown that the BSF has several biological properties, including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and wound healing effects.ConclusionGiven the range of biological activities and metabolites possessed by the BSF, this insect may have the cosmeceutical potential to treat a number of skin pathologies.