Production of a Biosurfactant for Application in the Cosmetics Industry

August 2025 in “ Fermentation ”

Ana Márcia Tenório de Souza Cavalcanti, Gleice Paula de Araújo, Káren Gercyane de Oliveira Bezerra, F. C. G. Almeida, Maria da Glória C. Silva, Alessandra Sarubbo, Cláudio José Galdino da Silva, Rita de Cássia F. Soares da Silva, Leonie Asfora Sarubbo

biosurfactant Starmerella bombicola glycolipid anionic nature antimicrobial activity antioxidant activity critical micelle concentration synthetic surfactants biodegradable ingredients natural ingredients natural surfactants eco-friendly surfactants sustainable surfactants

Studysummary In this study, researchers produced a biosurfactant from yeast that effectively reduces surface tension, acts as a good oil emulsifier, demonstrates antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, and exhibits no cytotoxicity, suggesting its potential use in eco-friendly cosmetic formulations.

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The study investigates the production of a biosurfactant by Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 for use in the cosmetics industry, emphasizing its eco-friendly and sustainable benefits. The biosurfactant, characterized as a glycolipid with an anionic nature, demonstrated significant properties such as reducing water's surface tension, excellent emulsifying capabilities, and antimicrobial activity against various pathogens. It showed no cytotoxicity or irritant potential and exhibited antioxidant activity, suggesting potential applications in anti-aging and hair growth products. The biosurfactant's low critical micelle concentration (CMC) and effective performance at lower doses make it a promising alternative to synthetic surfactants, aligning with the industry's shift towards biodegradable and natural ingredients.

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