Clara Barba, Ph.D.

Clara Barba Albanell graduated in Chemical Sciences at the University of Barcelona (2003). Shee completed an Experimental Master in Biological Chemistry, Environmental and Related Technologies (2004) and her Doctoral Thesis in Pharmacy at the University of Barcelona (2011). Since 2003 she works at the Institute of Advanced Chemistry of Catalonia IQAC-CSIC. She belongs to the Cosmetic and Textile Innovations research group as well as to the Dermocosmetic Evaluation Service (DC) since 2005.

The following objectives of her research can be summarized as follows:

– Fundamental knowledge of keratin tissues, in particular the physicochemical of these lipid-protein systems, wool, human hair, stratum corneum of human skin, etc., especially focused on determining their permeability and barrier function.
– Determination of the effectiveness of topical cosmetic formulations through the use of non-invasive biophysical techniques capable of detecting significant improvements in the physiological condition of human skin, hair and nails.
– Determination of the effectiveness of capillary formulations evaluating lipid modification, hydrophobic / hydrophilic surface balance, water content, mechanical properties, microscopic visualization, etc. The antioxidant effect on the hair is also deepened using, among other methodologies, protein degradation, free radical formation by RPE and lipid peroxidation.

All her carrer has driven her to become a specialist in studies of human lipokeratin tissues such as the stratum corneum of the skin and hair. Also in physicochemical studies of textile and cosmetic materials and their interaction with skin and hair. She has participated in several National and International Congresses with oral presentations and posters and has more than 35 publications in international journals. In addition, she is a technitian specialized in the Dermocosmetic Evaluation Service, where, through the use of non-invasive biophysical techniques, research studies are carried out on the technical suitability of topically applied formulations. Shee also has experience in collaborations with the industry.