Estudo da estabilidade de emulsões de óleo de copaíba para fins cosméticos com foco no tratamento de Acne vulgaris

Abstract

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common inflammatory skin diseases; it affects pilosebaceous follicles and can significantly impact patients' lives. In this context, the cosmetic industry's growing demand for formulations utilizing natural active ingredients has driven the development of safer and more effective products. Among these actives, copaiba oleoresin stands out due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, wound-healing, and antioxidant properties, demonstrating potential for dermatological applications. This study aimed to develop and evaluate the stability of emulsions containing copaiba oleoresin for cosmetic purposes, specifically targeting acne treatment. The emulsions were prepared via the phase inversion method using the non-ionic surfactant SP CRODAFOS CES MBAL-PA-(BR). The resulting formulations underwent macroscopic and microscopic characterization, preliminary stability testing (centrifugation and thermal stress), and physicochemical analyses (pH and viscosity). Among the formulations evaluated, the emulsion composed of 70% water, 20% surfactant, and 10% copaiba oleoresin yielded the best results, maintaining a homogeneous appearance, showing no phase separation, and exhibiting microscopic stability and a moderately acidic pH. Stability tests showed no changes upon centrifugation, with alterations occurring only when the formulation was exposed to temperatures of 60°C or higher. Thus, the developed formulation demonstrated satisfactory physicochemical and stability characteristics, highlighting its potential for cosmetic applications intended for acne-prone skin.