Formulation and Characterization of Microemulsions containing Argan Oil: A Promising Delivery System for Cosmeceutical Applications

Argan oil has gained significant attention in the cosmeceutical industry due to its rich composition of bioactive compounds beneficial for skin and hair health. However, effective delivery and stability of argan oil in cosmetic formulations remains a challenge. Microemulsions present a promising approach for enhancing the delivery of argan oil, owing to their thermodynamic stability and ability to solubilize both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds. This paper investigates the formulation and characterization of microemulsions containing argan oil, focusing on their physicochemical properties, stability, and potential applications in cosmeceuticals. Pseudo-ternary phase diagrams were constructed using castor oil ethoxylate 30 moles as the surfactant, and microemulsion formulations were developed and characterized. The smallest particle size is 25.77 for the formulation contain the argan oil 2.74%, surfactant 24.65% and water 72.61% The results demonstrated the successful formulation of argan oil microemulsions with desirable properties, such as small particle sizes, low polydispersity indices, and high stability. Furthermore, microemulsion-based serums were developed and evaluated for their physicochemical properties, including viscosity, pH, appearance, and spreadability. The findings highlight the potential of argan oil microemulsions as effective delivery systems in cosmeceutical formulations, offering enhanced stability, bioavailability, and skin penetration of argan oil's beneficial components.