Periodic Reporting for period 1 - NanoCosmos (Nanoencapsulation of bioactive compounds from plant by products to produce sensitive skin cosmetics)
Reporting period: 2023-01-01 to 2024-12-31
NanoCosmos project is a Εuropean initiative to address the challenges of environmental sustainability and industrial competitiveness through bioscience and nanotechnology by transforming plant waste into high-quality ingredients for cosmetics, especially for sensitive skin. The main aim of the NanoCosmos project is to establish a European multidisciplinary and intersectoral network including scientists, engineers, and industry partners. The project focuses on developing environmentally friendly methods to recover useful compounds from plant by-products such as chamomile, lavender, saffron, and golden root. Instead of discarding this waste, NanoCosmos uses innovative “green” extraction techniques that are gentler on the environment and help preserve the natural benefits of these bioactive compounds.
At the core of the project are advanced extraction methods that utilise modern extraction technologies like ultrasound, microwave, pulsed electric fields, and supercritical fluid extraction. These techniques work by extracting valuable compounds from the plant by product materials without using harmful chemicals. Early results have shown that these green methods are not only effective in the extraction of antioxidants and other active ingredients but also offer improved yields compared to traditional extraction methods. In addition, the project has established best practices for properly drying and processing the plant materials to keep them stable and effective for further use.
After extracting the active ingredients, nanotechnology will be implemented, to enhance their benefits. Innovative formulations will allow the ingredients to be more effectively absorbed by the skin. Laboratory tests indicate that these nano-formulated products can reduce signs of aging and inflammation, making them particularly well-suited for sensitive skin. This new approach not only improves the stability of the compounds but also helps them work better once applied, potentially leading to more effective cosmetic products.
At the core of the project are advanced extraction methods that utilise modern extraction technologies like ultrasound, microwave, pulsed electric fields, and supercritical fluid extraction. These techniques work by extracting valuable compounds from the plant by product materials without using harmful chemicals. Early results have shown that these green methods are not only effective in the extraction of antioxidants and other active ingredients but also offer improved yields compared to traditional extraction methods. In addition, the project has established best practices for properly drying and processing the plant materials to keep them stable and effective for further use.
After extracting the active ingredients, nanotechnology will be implemented, to enhance their benefits. Innovative formulations will allow the ingredients to be more effectively absorbed by the skin. Laboratory tests indicate that these nano-formulated products can reduce signs of aging and inflammation, making them particularly well-suited for sensitive skin. This new approach not only improves the stability of the compounds but also helps them work better once applied, potentially leading to more effective cosmetic products.
NanoCosmos has achieved significant results; field trials to collect diverse plant waste as well as optimized eco-friendly extraction and drying processes were successfully set up, while the extracts showed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-wrinkle, and antimicrobial effects through in vitro assays. These advancements demonstrate that it is possible to turn what was once considered waste into a valuable resource for the cosmetics industry. The project has built a robust network of European partners, improved extraction technologies, and delivered clear evidence that green techniques can produce high-quality, sustainable ingredients to be used in cosmetic products.
NanoCosmos project is expected to have a broad impact. Environmentally, it promotes a circular economy by reducing plant waste and minimizing the use of harmful chemicals. Scientifically, it pushes the boundaries of “green” extraction techniques, to obtain natural occurring compounds, and nanotechnology, setting a precedent for future research. Commercially, the project opens up new opportunities for developing eco-friendly cosmetic products with the aim of lipid nanotechnology that meets the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance skincare. By successfully linking innovative research with practical applications, NanoCosmos is paving the way for more sustainable production methods and a healthier future for both consumers and the planet.