Cosmeceuticals based on atemoya peel extract: photoprotective and antimicrobial action

Cosmetic formulations with therapeutic activity have been the focus of research aimed at determining new applications and adding value to natural products. In this context, plant raw materials stand out for their richness in secondary metabolites, many of which have therapeutic properties. That includes the use of fruits considered unfit for sale for not meeting appearance standards for fresh fruit purchase and consumption. Thus, the present work developed cosmeceutical emulsions with atemoya peel extract containing a high content of phenolic compounds and their derivatives with photoprotective, antioxidant and bactericidal action. The emulsions prepared with 2%, 5% and 10% extracts were within the standards suggested for preliminary stability parameters of cosmetic formulations. All extracts and the emulsion containing 10% atemoya peel had a sun protection factor greater than 6 and antibacterial activity against Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Finally, they met the ideal physical and sensory standards, presenting good texture and gloss, low stickiness, adequate residual perception, good spreadability and balanced sensation of freshness. The consumer demand for cosmeceuticals with effects for the prevention of premature aging, cancers caused by free radicals and inflammatory diseases justifies the research and development of multifunctional products, such as the one presented in this study.