Contents 3 sections
Rice bran extract is one of the most versatile plant-based actives for modern cosmetic formulations. Our current analytical data show a pronounced antioxidant and photoprotective profile, which makes the extract of interest both for anti-ageing concepts and for functional formulations with increased stability requirements. The combination of tocopherols, gamma-oryzanol and steryl ferulates makes rice bran oil a highly functional component for demanding cosmetic applications.
Antioxidant components: tocopherols, gamma-oryzanol and steryl ferulates
The comprehensive analysis of our rice bran extract confirms the high concentration of bioactive antioxidants:
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Total tocopherols: 21.2 mg/100 g
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Total gamma-oryzanol: 17,000 mg/kg
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Steryl ferulates (main fractions): – Cycloartenyl ferulate: 4,800 mg/kg – 24-Methylenecycloartenyl ferulate: 5,800 mg/kg – Campesteryl ferulate: 2,000 mg/kg – Beta-sitosteryl ferulate: 1,200 mg/kg
Steryl ferulates are among the most potent antioxidant components of rice bran oil. As esters of ferulic acid, they contribute significantly to the stabilisation of sensitive formulations and support the oxidative stability of emulsions, lipid blends and other cosmetic systems.
Our investigations show that rice bran oil can improve the encapsulation capacity, the antioxidant efficacy, the UV-blocking performance and the photostability of modern formulations. This makes the extract a valuable component for a wide range of cosmetic applications – well beyond classic anti-ageing concepts.
Scientific studies also indicate that use in nanocarrier systems can further enhance the functional properties of rice bran oil.
Photoprotective properties: rice bran oil as a natural UVA-absorbing ingredient
In addition to its antioxidant action, rice bran oil shows pronounced photoprotective activity. The steryl ferulates contained in gamma-oryzanol support the absorption of UVA radiation and contribute to the photostabilisation of common UV filters in formulations.
Functional benefits for formulators
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natural absorption in the UVA range
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improved stability and photostability of UV filters
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increased UV-blocking performance and encapsulation capacity
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potential for reducing synthetic UV filters
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plant-based, functional component for modern cosmetic formulations
In nanostructured lipid carriers, rice bran oil performs particularly well: studies report that such systems can reflect a high proportion of UVA radiation – while at the same time reducing the amount of BMDBM and octocrylene.
Rice bran oil therefore offers an attractive option for manufacturers focusing on natural photoprotection, broad-spectrum stability and plant-based active systems in their formulations.
