Microencapsulation of Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) Essential Oil and Salicylic Acid via in Situ Polymerization and Their Immobilization onto a Cellulosic Substrate

ABSTRACT Lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus) and salicylic acid are dermatological active compounds with unique antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties. However, their high volatility and poor aqueous solubility limit their practical use. We characterize the microcapsules via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The spherical microcapsules, with an average diameter of 4.59 ± 1.56 µm, were applied to a 100% cotton fabric. The coated fabric showed potential for applications in therapeutic textiles for acne treatment, antimicrobial wound dressings, as well as skincare applications as cosmetic textiles with controlled release of dermatological actives.