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Effect of Addition of Spheroidal Cellulose Powders on Physicochemical and Functional Properties of Cosmetic Emulsions

Polymers 2025 1 citation

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The cosmetics industry has historically used tiny plastic microbeads as scrubbing and texturizing agents in face creams, but these are now widely banned due to environmental harm. This study evaluated spheroidal cellulose powders — derived from plant material — as a biodegradable replacement, finding that creams containing cellulose particles of two different sizes (2 and 7 µm) performed best, delivering good skin hydration, favorable texture, and high consumer sensory ratings. The results support cellulose-based particles as a viable and genuinely biodegradable substitute for synthetic microplastics in personal care products.

Body Systems

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of using spheroidal cellulose powders with different particle sizes (2 and 7 µm) in face creams and to evaluate their effect on selected physicochemical and performance properties of these products. A series of prototypes of facial creams with spheroidal cellulose were prepared. The following tests were carried out: stability, dynamic viscosity, texture analysis, degree of skin hydration, and evaluation of sensory appeal by consumers. It was observed that none of the creams showed instability over time. The addition of powdered spheroidal cellulose was found to increase dynamic viscosity and hardness and reduce the adhesion strength of the tested emulsions to the base face cream. A positive effect of the presence of polymeric raw materials on the level of skin hydration was observed. The most favorable results were obtained for the E4 cream prototype containing spheroidal powders of both 2 and 7 µm particle size at a weight ratio of 2.5 to 2.5. In addition, according to the members of the sensory panel, the E4 face cream was best evaluated and showed sensory benefits. The study concluded that spheroidal cellulose powders are a promising biodegradable alternative to microplastics in cosmetics.

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