Hermorsura Natural: Development and Analysis of an Antimicrobial Lipstick using Epazote, Guayaba Leaf, Jamaica, and Cochineal Pigment
Microbiology- Grade:
- 12
- Teacher:
- Alfred Santos
Microbial contamination in cosmetic products such as lipsticks, can lead to health issues and allergic reactions due to frequent contact with the mouth and exposure to bacteria and fungi. Commercial lipsticks often rely on chemical preservatives that irritate skin and do not always prevent microbial growth. This research analyzed traditional Mexican plant extracts, including Epazote, Guayaba, and Jamaica, incorporated with cochineal pigment to develop a natural antimicrobial lipstick that reduces contamination while preserving cosmetic quality. Plant extracts and cochineal pigment were mixed into a lipstick base formulated with candelilla wax, tacuma butter, shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E. The mixture was poured into silicone molds to make the lipstick. Antimicrobial activity was measured using the Kirby–Bauer sensitivity assay against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Candida albicans. Zones of inhibition were recorded after incubation at 35°C for 24 hours. Physical properties were analyzed through colorimetric Lab* evaluation and hardness testing with a penetrometer. Epazote and Guayaba lipsticks produced significantly larger zones of inhibition against both microorganisms, unfortunately Jamaica formulation had a smaller zone of inhibition. The commercial lipstick was the lowest zone of inhibition which proves that my results were significant. Colorimetric analysis showed that all formulations remained within a similar Lab* color space, with Epazote achieving complete color uniformity, Guayaba demonstrating high consistency, and Jamaica showing 63% consistency. Hardness testing indicated comparable strength to commercial products, demonstrating that plant extracts did not compromise structure or usability. The result of the lipstick color showed a slightly desaturated red hue characteristic of natural pigments and acceptable cosmetic appearance. This research presents a potential opportunity to improve lipstick production while keeping physical properties the same.
Great job! You were very thorough with your research methodologies, and you had great methodology and lab performance. You even did a good job with taking on many different aspects of this research outside of the microbial side (cost, connection to audience members).
This research is incredible! Your inspiration for this project is wonderful, and the fact that you were able to integrate culture into creating a product that works for everyone is simply amazing. Your results are promising, and I encourage you to continue on this path and do further work on this topic and others. Amazing work and continue the great work!