Oncological cosmetics formulations based on medicinal plants

Abstract

Objective: Developing dermocosmetic formulations to minimize the harmful and/or undesirable effects of chemotherapy on the skin. Methods: Vegetable compounds with proven hydrating, emollient, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial action were selected: extracts or tinctures of Arnica montana L., Calendula officinalis L., Punica granatum and Rosmarinus officinalis L. Two formulations were proposed, cream and gel-cream, evaluated for accelerated stability and preservation challenge test, with inoculation of Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and evaluation for 28 days. Results: The formulations were considered adequate and the proposed objective was achieved, developing two novel formulations, a cream and a gel-cream, which can compose an innovative product line that meets the needs of the cancer patient. Conclusion: The cream formulation was proposed for epidermal cell renewal and skin moistening, containing the combination of pomegranate tincture (Punica granatum) and marigold glycolic extract (Calendula officinalis), while the gel-cream formulation has anti-inflammatory potential provided by rosemary tincture (Rosmarinus officinalis) and arnica tincture (Arnica montana). The formulations were stable, having the potential to improve the life quality of cancer patients.