## 2 Structural Complexity and Composition of Native Lignin
### Lignin in Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics  
L Lignin is increasingly being recognized as a sustainable alternative to synthetic chemicals in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries. Its unique properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and UV-protective capabilities, make it an ideal candidate for a wide range of applications, from skincare and sunscreens to drug delivery systems [33]. As consumer demand for natural, eco-friendly, and high-performance products grows, lignin is emerging as a key driver of innovation in these sectors, offering a sustainable solution that aligns with global trends toward green chemistry and circular bioeconomy principles. In the cosmetics industry, lignin is being utilized to replace synthetic stabilizers, thickeners, and UV filters, while also enhancing product performance and stability [34]. Borregaard (Sarpsborg, Norway) ([[https://www.borregaard.com/](https://www.borregaard.com/)]([https://www.borregaard.com/](https://www.borregaard.com/))) (accessed on 10 June 2025), a global leader in lignin vaporization, has developed Exilva(r), a natural stabilizer and thickener derived from lignin that is used in skincare products to improve the texture and shelf life. Additionally, Borregaard's EuroVanillin(r) Supreme, a high-quality lignin-based vanillin, serves as both an antioxidant and a fragrance additive in cosme, offering a sustainable alternative to synthetic vanillin ([[https://www.borregaard.com/markets/food/plant-based-vanillin](https://www.borregaard.com/markets/food/plant-based-vanillin)]([https://www.borregaard.com/markets/food/plant-based-vanillin](https://www.borregaard.com/markets/food/plant-based-vanillin)) accessed on 10 May 2025). Another notable innovation comes from LignoPure (Hamburg, Germany) ([[https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/](https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/)]([https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/](https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/)) accessed on 10 May 2025), which has introduced LignoBase, a lignin-derived ingredient featured in _Personal Care Magazine_'s \"Little Book of Skin Care Ingredients.\" LignoBase enhances the stability and performance of cosmetic formulations, demonstrating lignin's versatility as a multifunctional ingredient in personal care products ([[https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/](https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/)]([https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/](https://www.lignopure.com/lignin/)) accessed on 10 May 2025). Lignin is also making waves in the sunscreen market, where its UV-protective properties are being harnessed to improve the efficacy and sustainability of sun care products. Lignovations ([[https://lignovations.com/](https://lignovations.com/)]([https://lignovations.com/](https://lignovations.com/)) accessed on 10 May 2025), for example, has developed LignoGuard ([[https://lignovations.com/lignoguard-spf-booster/](https://lignovations.com/lignoguard-spf-booster/)]([https://lignovations.com/lignoguard-spf-booster/](https://lignovations.com/lignoguard-spf-booster/)) accessed on 10 May 2025), an SPF enhancer derived from lignin that not only boosts UV protection but also reduces the amount of synthetic UV filters required in sunscreen formulations. This innovation addresses growing concerns about the environmental impact of conventional sunscreens, particularly their contribution to coral reef degradation, while providing a high-performance, bio-based alternative. Lignolix ([[https://www.lignolix.com/](https://www.lignolix.com/)]([https://www.lignolix.com/](https://www.lignolix.com/)) accessed on 10 May 2025), a pioneer company in this field, is creating lignin adhesives with bio-based ingredients for sustainable adhesion, cosme containing naturally multifunctional additives, and flavors and fragrances characterized by natural phenolic compounds to replace petrochemical feedstocks. Scientific research further supports lignin's potential in pharmaceuticals, with studies highlighting its role in developing nanoparticles for drug delivery protocols [35].