Microcapsules and Biofunctionality: Enhancing Textile and Dermocosmetic Properties Through Microencapsulation

Abstract

Textile finishes have long been utilized to impart novel functional properties to fabrics. These functionalizations can be applied to substrates through various methods. However, one of the most prevalent forms of application is via encapsulation systems, which offer protection to the active ingredients against potential adversities. These microcapsule delivery vehicles find application across diverse fields, spanning pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and textile industries. Within the textile sector specifically, such structures enable the development of functionalized substrates that act as vehicles for active compounds, facilitating their interaction with the epidermis and enabling novel functionalities, such as cosmetic or medicinal effects. This project examines how these textile materials with biological functionalities can be incorporated into dermocosmetic products, representing an intersection between various areas of knowledge. The review emphasizes the potential of bioactive textile substrates, noting that the market for these delivery systems, in conjunction with the dermocosmetic sector, is expected to experience significant growth. The integration of textile materials with bioactive molecules is poised to drive innovations in both the textile industry and the health and skincare sectors.