Milk Proteins—Their Biological Activities and Use in Cosmetics and Dermatology

Abstract

Milk and colostrum have high biological potential, and due to their natural origin and non-toxicity, they have many uses in cosmetics and dermatology. Research is ongoing on their potential application in other fields of medicine, but there are still few results; most of the published ones are included in this review. These natural products are especially rich in proteins, such as casein, β-lactoglobulin, α-lactalbumin, lactoferrin, immunoglobulins, lactoperoxidase, lysozyme, and growth factors, and possess various antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, immunomodulatory properties, etc. This review describes the physico-chemical properties of milk and colostrum proteins and the natural functions they perform in the body and compares their composition between animal species (cows, goats, and sheep). The milk- and colostrum-based products can be used in dietary supplementation and for performing immunomodulatory functions; they can enhance the effects of certain drugs and can have a lethal effect on pathogenic microorganisms. Milk products are widely used in the treatment of dermatological diseases for promoting the healing of chronic wounds, hastening tissue regeneration, and the treatment of acne vulgaris or plaque psoriasis. They are also increasingly regarded as active ingredients that can improve the condition of the skin by reducing the number of acne lesions and blackheads, regulating sebum secretion, ameliorating inflammatory changes as well as bestowing a range of moisturizing, protective, toning, smoothing, anti-irritation, whitening, soothing, and antiaging effects.

Microbial Biosurfactant as an Alternate to Chemical Surfactants for Application in Cosmetics Industries in Personal and Skin Care Products: A Critical Review

“…In a sample, the lipid ratios are 10% free fatty acids, 10% cholesterol esters, 25% free cholesterol, and 50% ceramides. These lipids help regulate transepidermal water loss and are known as natural-moisturizing factors [ 43 , 44 ]. Chemical surfactants can disrupt the balance of these intracellular lipids and cause the denaturation of proteins in skin cell membranes, a process known as delipidation [ 45 ].…”

Colostrum and Lactoferrin Protect against Side Effects of Therapy with Antibiotics, Anti-inflammatory Drugs and Steroids, and Psychophysical Stress: A Comprehensive Review

“…BC and related preparations were also effective when used by adults. When applied topically, they relieved urogenital complaints in women [ 27 , 42 ]; prevented and alleviated URTIs and gastrointestinal infections, as well as inflammatory bowel disease [ 18 , 43 , 44 , 45 , 46 , 47 ]; protected against gastrointestinal damage after NSAID therapy [ 48 ]; and healed wounds, ulcers and skin lesions in allergic and autoimmune disorders [ 49 ]. BC could also be helpful in the management of nonorganic failure to thrive in children from poor developing countries and in controlling glucose and lipid metabolism in diabetic patients [ 22 ].…”

A comprehensive review on lactoferrin: a natural multifunctional glycoprotein

“…Lf is also used in hairsprays for smoothing and hydrating hair. 134 Further research is needed to extend the use of Lf in beauty products, including hair, face, make-up, and body care items.…”