Natural deep eutectic systems-based Ginkgo biloba extracts: A natural and sustainable solution for skin care

This study explores not only the potential of hydrophilic Natural Deep Eutectic Systems (NADES) as sustainable extraction media for bioactive compounds from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves but also the potential of these extracts to be used in the development of skin care products with antioxidant properties. Three NADES were evaluated for their efficiency regarding total phenolic content (TPC) extraction yield and antioxidant activity. NADES LA:Glc:W (5:1:3) exhibited higher TPC extraction yield and antioxidant activity, surpassing even extraction with conventional solvent. Chemical characterization identified quinic acid and shikimic acid as the predominant compounds, with LA:Glc:W achieving the highest efficiency for quinic acid extraction. The extracts showed no cytotoxicity towards keratinocytes cells up to 50 mg/mL. The extracts were able to inhibit the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) after induction with H 2 O 2 and UV light, highlighting their potential for skin care applications. The stability study showed that Bet:Suc:Gly:W extract was stable over 360 days, maintaining consistent TPC and antioxidant activity, demonstrating its potential for use in long-term storage and effective use in natural skincare formulations. Sustainability of our extraction method was confirmed through green analysis tools, AGREEprep and ComplexMoGAPI, in accordance with Green Analytical Chemistry principles. The results presented herein, underscore the potential of NADES as eco-friendly alternatives for extracting and stabilizing bioactive compounds, with applications not only in cosmetic sciences but it also opens the opportunity to be used in other fields such as food and pharmaceuticals. This work demonstrates the critical importance of solvent selection in enhanced extraction efficiency, stability, and application-specific properties. • Natural Deep Eutectic Systems (NADES) are green, biodegradable and tunable solvents. • NADES efficiently extract bioactive compounds from Ginkgo biloba L. leaves. • NADES increases phenolic content and antioxidant activity. • Extracts protect skin cells from UV and hydrogen peroxide oxidative stress. • Green metrics confirm the extraction method is safe, sustainable, and low-impact.