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Bacterial Polysaccharides: Cosmetic Applications

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Polysaccharides of Microbial Origin

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Abstract

Bacterial polysaccharides are extensively used in cosmetic products, especially given their diverse properties and functionalities, assuming an important role in the R&D of new formulations and applications. In this chapter, the principal properties of the main polysaccharides present in this area are described and summarized. Advancements in skin biology knowledge, and the study of new formulations, support the research of active ingredients related to the maintenance of skin integrity and barrier function. Bacterial polysaccharides possess several properties (such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, film-forming, gelling, and thickening) that can provide protective effects on the skin, improving the efficacy of formulations while maintaining the skin in good conditions. Additionally, polysaccharides, which can be processed in emulsions, hydrogels, suspensions, and encapsulating structures, have been demonstrated to enhance the stability of formulations and promote sensorial properties. Data from several clinical studies revealed that the polysaccharide-based formulations promote skin health, with applications in several skin disorder treatments.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. UCIBIO-REQUIMTE, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, NOVA School of Science and Technology, Caparica, Portugal

    Sílvia Baptista & Filomena Freitas

  2. 73100 Lda., Lisboa, Portugal

    Sílvia Baptista & Filomena Freitas

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  1. Sílvia Baptista
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  2. Filomena Freitas
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Correspondence to Filomena Freitas .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal

    Joaquim Miguel Oliveira

  2. 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal

    Hajer Radhouani

  3. 3B’s Research Group, I3Bs – Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Zona Industrial da Gandra, Barco, Guimarães, Portugal

    Rui L. Reis

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Baptista, S., Freitas, F. (2022). Bacterial Polysaccharides: Cosmetic Applications. In: Oliveira, J.M., Radhouani, H., Reis, R.L. (eds) Polysaccharides of Microbial Origin. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-42215-8_45

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