Starch- and carboxymethyl cellulose-based films as active beauty masks with papain incorporation

This work aimed to evaluate the effects of the incorporation of papain in biopolymeric-based beauty face masks with exfoliation activity of the skin. The masks were produced by casting with starch and carboxymethyl cel-lulose blend (50:50 weight percentages). The macro and microstructure, protein distribution, thickness, moisture content, water contact angle, solubility matter, and mechanical properties were evaluated. Moreover, the in vitro proteolytic and exfoliation activity and storage stability were also evaluated. The films with papain had a more concise matrix which provided higher mechanical properties and lower water solubility when compared to the control film (without papain). Films with 1, 2, and 5 % of papain had enzymatic activity for casein and porcine skin substrates. The micrographs of porcine skin treated with 2 and 5 % of papain showed more difference when compared to the control sample, indicating the enzymatic exfoliation. Differently from the solution of papain, the enzyme that was immobilized in the films maintained its activity for up 90 days during the storage stability assay. Based on the physicochemical properties and proteolytic activities, the films preserved the exfoliation activity of papain and have interesting characteristics to act as beauty masks in the cosmetic field.

Automated summary

This study aimed to assess the effects of incorporating papain in biopolymeric-based beauty face masks on the exfoliation activity of the skin. The masks were produced by blending starch and carboxymethyl cellulose (50:50 weight percentages) and were evaluated for their macro and microstructure, protein distribution, thickness, moisture content, water contact angle, solubility, mechanical properties, and in vitro proteolytic and exfoliation activity. The films with papain exhibited a more compact matrix with higher mechanical properties and lower water solubility compared to the control films. The papain films showed enzymatic activity and greater exfoliation activity on porcine skin compared to the control sample, indicating their potential as beauty masks in the cosmetic field.