Active Beauty

Bacterial cellulose - a naturally occurring nanomaterial made from some bacteria - is already used in cosmetics, largely as a face mask delivery system, but scientific research on its potential in cosmetics remains nascent (Getty Images)

Special edition: Active Skin Care – Protection and Healing in a Post-COVID World

Bacterial cellulose: The next big natural polymer in active beauty?

By Kacey Culliney

Interest around bacterial cellulose in cosmetic applications is mushrooming, spurred by skin hydration and active compound delivery promise, but beauty research on this naturally occurring nanomaterial remains nascent, say researchers.