Characterisation of Andalusian peats for skin health care formulations

Composition and properties of three different peat strata from “El Padul” peatbog have been studied and peat pastes have been formulated to prepare skin health care products. As for composition, the main phase of each stratum was constituted of smectites (outer stratum), organic matters (intermediate) or carbonates (inner). Pristine strata and their aqueous dispersed systems were characterized for such properties (pH, rheology and cooling kinetics) that are considered determinant in view of their topical application. Main phases of each stratum influenced pH and rheology but not cooling kinetics. Combination of the strata in different w/w ratios led to peat pastes with improved performance for skin administration.