Microalgae and Cyanobacteria Exopolysaccharides: An Untapped Raw Material for Cosmetic Use

Microalgae and cyanobacteria produce extracellular polysaccharides that are exuded and released into the medium, typically referred to as exopolysaccharides (EPS). Microalgae-derived EPS have garnered attention in the last decade, as they may exhibit specific bioactivities and therefore hold promise for biofunctional applications in the biomedical, food, agricultural, and cosmetic fields. In cosmetic formulations, EPS can be included both to improve techno-functional and sensorial properties, and as active ingredients, showing great potential in the preparation of cosmetic products aimed at hydration and anti-aging. This review surveys the literature on the potential of EPS-microalgae in skin care and cosmeceutical formulations, to reveal a material that is sometimes discarded during the microalgae cultivation process and that can be recovered for cosmetic use. The conclusions of this review highlight that EPS from microalgae and cyanobacteria exhibit different physicochemical and biological functionalities, making them attractive for potential exploitation as commercial sources of new polysaccharides.