Green Nano cosmeceuticals: Formulating an Eco-Friendly, Preservative-Free Cucumber and Chamomile Oil Nano emulsion for Advanced Skin Therapeutics

Abstract

The increasing consumer demand for safe, sustainable, and effective skincare has intensified the development of green cosmeceuticals, integrating natural botanicals with advanced delivery systems. This study reports the formulation and characterization of a preservative-free, eco-friendly cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) oil nanoemulsion face mist designed for enhanced skin hydration, elasticity, and protection against oxidative damage. Utilizing Tween 80 as a non-ionic surfactant, three formulations differing in chamomile oil concentration (0.1% w/w, 0.2% w/w, and 0.3% w/w) were prepared via high-speed homogenization. Physicochemical evaluations revealed stable nanoscale droplets (296–737 nm), moderately negative zeta potentials (−6.9 to −11.1 mV), pH values consistent with the skin’s acid mantle (4.61–5.56), and low viscosity conducive to fine mist application. Stability assessments-freeze–thaw, thermostability, and centrifugation tests-confirmed the nanoemulsions’ robustness without synthetic preservatives. The antioxidant activity of cucumber extract showed strong, concentration-dependent free radical scavenging with up to 79% inhibition at 2000 µg/mL. skin analysis demonstrated significant improvements in hydration, oil content, and elasticity, particularly at 0.3% w/w chamomile oil concentration. Spray characteristics and drying time tests indicated optimal sensory properties facilitating consumer acceptability. These findings establish the promising potential of cucumber and chamomile oil nanoemulsion as a green, preservative-free cosmeceutical platform that aligns with current industry trends towards natural, sustainable, and efficacious skincare solutions.