What is Bio Cellulose
Bio cellulose (or microbial cellulose) is a natural fiber with a diameter of only 20 nanometers – 1000 times thinner than human hair. This superfine fiber is an eco-friendly, biodegradable alternative to fibers produced through commercial manufacturing processes.
How is Bio Cellulose Produced?
The bio cellulose in Bel Mondo facial masks is synthesized through the Acetobacter Xylinum bacteria. The bacteria function like “tiny weavers”, converting (spinning) sugar and other organic substrates into ribbons of pure cellulose that are intertwined into fabrics.
What Makes Bio Cellulose Desirable For Skin Care?
Bio cellulose has several physical properties that set it apart as a premium material for use in skin care:
- Bio cellulose is extremely hydrophilic, or “water loving”. Bio cellulose fabrics have an amazing fluid-holding capacity of up to 100 times their dry weight.
- Bio cellulose has a very high degree of crystallinity, which is another way of saying that the microfibers in bio cellulose fabrics are tightly intertwined (woven), and quite strong and resilient.
- Bio cellulose is sterile, toxin free, and extraordinarily pure. Cellulose derived from the cell walls of ordinary plants contains coarse polymers like lignin and hemicelluloses; these polymers are not present in bio cellulose.
Is Bio Cellulose Used For Other Applications?
The biomedical field has leveraged the distinctive properties of bio cellulose to support a range of applications. Bio cellulose is used as artificial skin to heal and soothe burns, and as occlusive dressings to treat chronic wounds. It is also used in microsurgeries (as molding for artificial blood vessels) and in plastic/reconstructive surgeries.
