The Use of Biological Pigments in Cosmetics for Eco-friendly and Sustainable Coloring

Abstract

Synthetic pigments have been used in the cosmetics industry for a very long time in everything from lipsticks to eye shadows. However, the hunt for sustainable and secure alternatives is driven by escalating environmental and health concerns. A feasible alternative that offers benefits in terms of biodegradability, sustainability, and safety is bacteria-based pigments. The potential of bacterial pigments in cosmetics is explored in this review article by focusing on their sources, extraction processes, and advantages over synthetic alternatives. The study also explores the safety and regulatory framework pertaining to bacterial pigments and presents actual case studies of their successful application in cosmetic products. A scenario on the potential impact of bacterial pigments on the cosmetics market is provided as a conclusion. The demand for various cosmetics is on rise and ever-increasing due to the inherent desire to look beautiful. A marked increase in women’s use of different cosmetic formulations has been witnessed in recent years. Varieties of cosmetics from different manufacturers are available in the market. Synthetic colors have been used in cosmetics for a long time, resulting in human health risks and environmental pollution. Therefore it is critical to search for novel natural pigments that are safe and alternative to synthetic ones. Compared to synthetic colors, microbial pigments show better biodegradability and greater compatibility with the environment.