Obtainment of bacterial cellulose with added propolis extract for cosmetic applications

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a versatile material produced by microorganisms in the form of a hydrogel film with high water retention capacity, porosity, and mechanical strength. BC can incorporate and release substances, making it an interesting polymer for use in the cosmetic and biomedical industries. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the use of a bacterium for the production of cellulose films in which propolis extract was added in situ and ex situ (during and after membrane production, respectively) with promising use as a skincare product. The bacterium Gluconacetobacter hansenii was grown in standard Hestrin-Schramm (HS) medium as well as HS medium with propolis extract for 7 days. A radiolytic process with Co-60 was investigated as a safe sterilization method. The average yield was 120.55 +/- 2.40 g of cellulose/L. The polymeric system exhibited antioxidant activity (15.16% inhibition of oxidant activity) and high water-retention capacity (98.01 +/- 0.17%). In conclusion, natural additives can provide the antioxidant characteristics of BC. Moreover, gamma irradiation proved to be an effective sterilization method, while maintaining the properties of the material.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the use of bacterium-produced cellulose films with added propolis extract for skincare products, showing promising antioxidant and water-retention properties. Gamma irradiation proved to be an effective sterilization method while maintaining the material's properties.