Formulation and Physicochemical Evaluation of a Sodium DNA-Based Moisturizer for Cosmetic Applications

Abstract

Skin hydration plays a critical role in maintaining skin health and preserving skin barrier integrity, while impairment of the barrier may increase transepidermal water loss and lead to dry, sensitive, and irritated skin. The growing interest in biomolecule-based cosmetic ingredients has encouraged the development of innovative moisturizers containing Salmon DNA (Sodium DNA), a purified nucleic acid fragment with potential hydrating properties. This study aimed to formulate and characterize Selvique DNA Salmon Hydra Moist, a moisturizer incorporating Sodium DNA together with humectants, emollients, and skin-conditioning agents to support skin hydration and barrier function. The formulation was prepared using Sodium DNA, glycerin, butylene glycol, saccharide isomerate, allantoin, caprylic or capric triglyceride, cyclopentasiloxane, and complementary excipients, followed by physicochemical and microbiological evaluations. The resulting product exhibited desirable characteristics, including a white cream appearance, odorless profile, pH of 5.27, viscosity of 110,000 cPs, and specific gravity of 1.0092 g/mL. Microbiological analysis demonstrated compliance with cosmetic quality requirements, with total plate count and yeast-mold count of 0 cfu/mL and negative results for Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. The formulation was also classified as non-hazardous according to the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive and remained stable under normal storage conditions. These findings indicate that the developed Salmon DNA-based moisturizer possesses acceptable physicochemical stability and microbiological quality, supporting its potential use as a biomolecule-based cosmetic formulation designed to maintain skin hydration and promote skin barrier function.