Our skin deserves natural, healthy, and high-quality products. A research project of the austrian centre of industrial biotechnology (acib) based in boku vienna, ifa-tulln, is developing a green and versatile ingredient for skin care based on microalgae.
A typical personal care product can contain from 15 to 50 ingredients. Polymers, in particular, can play several roles in a formulation, such as controlling texture, stabilization, emulsification, and film formation. However, most of the polymers used today are made from synthetic petrochemicals, which can be harmful to both human health and the environment. They are known to cause allergies, acne, skin irritation, and prolonged applications can even lead to cancer. As general awareness is rising, consumers are demanding changes in the cosmetic industry forcing a sustainable selection of raw materials that consider the environmental, social and economic impact.
Cyanoflan – a biopolymer derived from algae
Natural polymers extracted from algae offer a solution to this challenge! Specifically, a strain of algae (a cyanobacterium) that naturally and constantly produces a complex extracellular sugar called Cyanoflan. This bio-based polymer works as a thickener ingredient in formulations, and provides several beneficial bioactivities for the skin, namely reducing inflammation that help calm and relieve skin discomfort. Plus, Cyanoflan is easy to produce, requiring only saltwater with inorganic nutrients, light, and air, as well as easy to isolate since it is completely secreted by the cells. Moreover, this technology has already been patented in USA and is pending in EU.
Additionally, the residual algal biomass can be repurposed as a valuable resource, such as food or feed supplements due to its high content of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It can also be used to extract a natural vibrant blue pigment called phycocyanin, which can be used as a food colorant or as nutraceutical due to its antioxidant properties. This approach supports a sustainable biorefinery model, promoting the global awareness of the benefits of a circular bioeconomy.
CyanoCare – a startup in the making
The research behind this project started in Portugal, where pilot scale production is currently taking place. But in 2022, the project leader found the ideal environment in Austria to take this research forward, where a startup called CyanoCare is being established. CyanoCare is focused on developing and bringing to market value-added products made from microalgae, contributing to a healthier and more sustainable planet.
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