Table 1.

Summary for biopolymers used in cosmetic applications in hydrogel form

S. No.	Biopolymers used as hydrogels in cosmetic applications	Advantages	Disadvantages
1	Kappa-carrageenan	• holds water onto skin and hair • used as a conditioning agent for hair • acts as a moisturizer	• may cause inflammation • may cause irritation
2	Xanthan gum	• withstands different temperature ranges and pH values • skin conditioning properties • non-toxic	• may cause irritation
3	Guar gum	• hair and skin condition is improved • prevents water loss • increases product self-life	• allergic sensitivity
5	Pectin	• strengthens skin	• pectin from a few sources may occasionally show poor gelling ability
6	Alginate	• erases fine wrinkles • increases elasticity and strengthens skin • makes skin look fresh	• gel formed may have foul smell
7	Cellulose	• increases the amount of moisture in skin • minimizes the appearance of hyperpigmentation	• shows poor compatibility with a hydrophobic polymer matrix
10	Gelatin	• improves skin health • causes skin firmness	• may cause allergic reactions
11	Collagen	• improves skin elasticity • reduces wrinkles • boosts skin hydration	• may cause local cutaneous necrosis and inflammation responses
12	Hyaluronic acid	• helps reduce the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles • leads to smoother skin	• may cause allergic reaction • may cause rash on the application site
13	Chitosan	• antimicrobial • antioxidant • softens the skin	• cross-linking of chitosan gel may affect chitosan intrinsic properties