Saribekova, Diana, et al. Applied Sciences 11.22 (2021): 10625.
This study examined the application of dimethiconol, a key organosilicone ingredient, in improving the extraction of biologically active compounds from plant materials for use in cosmetic emulsions. The study highlighted the advantages of silicone-based extractants-particularly dimethiconol/cyclopentasiloxane blends-over traditional solvents like water and ethanol in preserving bioactivity and enhancing antioxidant performance.
Methods: Extractions were performed using Calendula Officinalis L. and Artemisia Absinthium L. with several silicone-based systems, including single-component silicones (e.g., polydimethylsiloxane, cyclopentasiloxane, phenyltrimethicone), multi-component systems, including a dimethiconol solution in cyclopentasiloxane and mixtures containing PEG-12 dimethicone and amodimethicone. Extraction efficiency was evaluated based on antioxidant activity with reference solution (activity value: 0.770).
Key Results:
· The dimethiconol/cyclopentasiloxane solution (BRB 1834) demonstrated high extraction efficacy, yielding antioxidant values of 1.507 for calendula and 1.111 for wormwood.
· These results significantly exceeded those of single-component silicones, which showed low antioxidant activity (0.204-0.457), and also surpassed aqueous extracts (calendula: 0.711; wormwood: 0.657).
· The presence of polar -OH groups in dimethiconol contributed to enhanced penetration through plant cell membranes and improved extraction efficiency.