Utilization of Tofu Dregs (Okara) as a Source of Isoflavone Raw Material in Skincare Cosmetics: A Systematic Review
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Soybean Waste,
Isoflavone,
Anti-aging,
Antioxidant Okara,
Limbah kedelai,
Isoflavon,
Anti-penuaan,
Antioksidan
Main Article Content
Abstract
Tofu dregs, commonly known as okara, are an abundant by-product of soybean processing that contains valuable bioactive compounds, particularly isoflavones such as genistein and daidzein. Despite their potential, the utilization of okara as a raw material for skincare cosmetics remains relatively underexplored. This study aims to systematically review the potential of okara-derived isoflavones for cosmetic applications, focusing on extraction methods, biological activities, and formulation strategies. A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Literature searches were performed in PubMed, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and PubMed Central (PMC) for publications from 2016 to 2026. From 50 initially identified records, 16 primary studies met the inclusion criteria, consisting of four studies directly investigating okara and 12 studies examining soybean-derived materials or isolated isoflavones. The findings indicate that supercritical fluid extraction using carbon dioxide with 10% ethanol as a co-solvent can enhance isoflavone recovery from okara and produce extracts with antioxidant capacity. Direct studies also demonstrate the presence of genistein and daidzein in okara, although its antioxidant activity in the reported DPPH assay was relatively weak. Meanwhile, indirect evidence from soybean extracts and isolated isoflavones suggests potential photoprotective, anti-inflammatory, collagen-stimulating, and skin-hydrating effects. However, these findings cannot be directly generalized to topical okara formulations. Formulation studies indicate that nanostructured lipid carriers, nanoemulsions, and nanoemulsion-based hydrogels may improve isoflavone stability, skin penetration, and dermal retention. Overall, okara represents a promising and sustainable source of cosmetic bioactive ingredients. Nevertheless, further direct research involving standardized okara extracts, topical efficacy, safety, and long-term stability is necessary before their application in commercial skincare products can be established.
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