Supercritical extracts offer several benefits for both food and cosmetic applications due to their purity, concentration and ability to retain valuable bioactive compounds. These extracts are typically obtained using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) using carbon dioxide (CO2) as solvent. Here are the benefits of supercritical extracts in cosmetic application:
Purity: Supercritical extracts are typically free of solvent residues and contaminants, making them suitable for cosmetic formulations where purity is essential for skin health.
Potential: Supercritical extracts are concentrated, meaning a small amount can provide significant benefits to skin or hair. This concentration allows fewer ingredients to be used in formulations.
Preservation of Bioactives: Supercritical extraction can preserve the full spectrum of bioactive compounds present in plant materials. This means that the extract contains a complex mix of compounds including antioxidants, vitamins and phytochemicals that can benefit the skin.
Consistency: Supercritical extraction methods ensure consistency in the composition of extracts, ensuring that cosmetic products maintain their effectiveness from batch to batch.
Natural and Organic Options: Supercritical extracts are generally considered natural and organic ingredients, aligning with consumer preferences for clean green beauty products.
Skin Benefits: Supercritical extracts can offer a variety of benefits for the skin, including moisturization, anti-aging effects, anti-inflammatory properties, and the ability to address specific skin concerns (e.g. acne, hyperpigmentation).
Sustainability: The use of supercritical CO2 extraction is considered more environmentally friendly compared to other extraction methods that can use harmful solvents or excessive heat.
In both food and cosmetic applications, it is crucial to select the right supercritical extract based on the specific properties and bioactive compounds required for the intended use. Furthermore, quality control and testing are essential to ensure the safety and efficacy of products containing supercritical extracts.