Abstract

Introduction: The use of Ginkgo biloba L. (Gb) extracts have been proposed in topical formulations for prevention and treatment of the damages caused by free radicals, due this extract has high flavonoid content, adding benefit to the compounding product. Such advantages justify their use by the cosmetic industry, however, there is a need for scientific studies to ensure that these extracts have activity and therapeutic efficacy after incorporation into creams. Thus, the aim of this research was determining in vitro the antioxidant activity of Gb glycolic and dry extract after incorporation in the dosage form cream by the free radical scavenging activity method, DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), and the preliminary stability study through physical-chemical tests (pH, spreadability, viscosity, centrifugation and microscopic analysis) to determine its behavior against environmental conditions.

Methods: The formulations were stable against the physical-chemical stability tests. However, after incorporation in the creams, the extracts of Gb presented instability against antioxidant efficacy, being observed a greater loss in those containing Gb glycolic extract.

Results: The results indicate the feasibility of using Gb dry extract in cosmetics of topical use since all the formulations added to this extract, even after thermal stress, presented antioxidant activity within the pharmacopeia parameters.

Conclusion: Therefore, it is suggested the microencapsulation of the extracts, in order to ensure greater stability of the active after incorporation in cosmetic products, as well as during storage