Multi-benefit black soldier fly extracts may address range of skin disorders and more – review

The review highlighted the appeal of the antimicrobial properties of BSF extracts.

It highlighted that BSF extract could address a range of skin disorders, including chronic wounds, acne, and atopic dermatitis, making it a compelling cosmeceutical ingredient.

Furthermore, previous evidence has suggested a potential connection between the composition of cutaneous microorganisms and skin ageing.

“For instance, cyanobacteria, a microorganism with natural protective properties against UV radiation, were found in higher abundance on the skin of children, suggesting that children would be less susceptible to UV​‐induced skin damage,”​ the review noted.

“Therefore, cosmeceuticals that contain BSF products as an active ingredient may be developed as a remedy for the aforementioned skin disorders, by making use of the natural mechanisms of the BSF that inhibit the growth of harmful cutaneous microorganisms.”​

Moreover, BSF extracts have shown to exhibit antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. This suggests potential benefits in skin repair and reducing damage caused by oxidative stress.

“Beyond its admirable range of antimicrobial properties, the BSF has also shown promise as an agent for skin repair. Both intrinsic ageing and photoaging are characterised by wrinkles and diminished elasticity as a result of the reduction in the amount of collagen in the extracellular matrix (ECM) within the dermis.”​

Furthermore, epigallocatechin (EGC), a flavonoid found in green tea, was identified in BSF.

Flavonoids are rich in biological activities, demonstrating anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial, and antioxidative effects. They are known for their protective properties against UVB radiation.

The review highlighted other phytocompounds in the flavonoid family found in BSF, inclduing luteolin, apigenin, quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol.

“Given the vast biological properties of the BSF discussed thus far, this insect may become an alternative resource of natural cosmeceutical ingredients.”​

Need of further investigation​

The review noted that BSF extracts would appeal to a market that is observing in natural and sustainable products.

“Based on the evidence presented, the prospects of BSF as a natural ingredient in cosmeceutical products are bright, especially in this day and age when the demand for ‘greener’ cosmetics is ever increasing.”​

Furthermore, the researchers highlighted their safety profile, which is crucial for their potential integration into cosmeceutical products to ensure consumer confidence, especially in cosmeceuticals.

“BSF​‐based products, extracts and peptides derived from the larvae have shown low cytotoxicity in cell viability assays.”​

While the initial findings are promising, the review emphasised that further research is essential to fully understand the direct impact of BSF components on skin health.

It noted that clinical trials would play a pivotal role in validating the efficacy and safety of BSF-derived products for widespread use.

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Black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.): A potential smallmighty giant in the field of cosmeceuticals​

Source: Health Science Reports​

Authors: Lai​‐Foenander et al.​