Preparation of alpha‐bisabolol and phenylethyl resorcinol/TiO2 hybrid composites for potential applications in cosmetics

Abstract Objective Bifunctional alpha‐bisabolol and phenylethyl resorcinol/TiO 2 hybrids were prepared to apply in cosmetic fields, particularly in anti‐ageing and hyperpigmentation treatment. The synergistic effect of combined antioxidant and UV filtering properties was achieved through functionalization of TiO 2 particles with skin‐lightening materials such as alpha‐bisabolol and phenylethyl resorcinol. Methods TiO 2 microspheres with a diameter of about 1 μm were synthesized through surfactant‐assisted sol–gel method for use as supporting materials in the formation of hybrid composites. Carboxylation treatment was performed for surface modification of the TiO 2 surface with carboxyl groups as chemical binders. Esterification reaction between carboxyl groups of carboxylated TiO 2 and hydroxyl groups of alpha‐bisabolol or phenylethyl resorcinol was performed. The hybrids were characterized using various techniques such as FE‐SEM, DLS, EDS, ATR‐FTIR, XPS and TGA. For application of prepared TiO 2 composites in the field of cosmetics, the anti‐radicular antioxidant abilities were evaluated using ABTS and DPPH colorimetric antioxidant assay. Results Organic/inorganic hybrid composites were successfully formed using esterification reaction between the carboxyl groups at TiO 2 surface and the hydroxyl groups of the skin‐lightening materials. The results demonstrate that both functionalized microspheres show scavenging ability towards the ABTS • and DPPH • radicals. Specifically, the phenylethyl resorcinol/TiO 2 composites exhibited the highest antioxidant ability among the prepared samples owing to the presence of phenolic groups to scavenge free radicals. Conclusion Using this strategy, it could be possible to prepare not only inorganic UV filter but also hybrid organic/inorganic materials with multifunctions and advantages which would be in a great demand for cosmetic applications.