Formulation and evaluation of herbal face scrub containing Azadirachta indica and Allium cepa for acne management

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder often associated with bacterial infection, oxidative stress, and follicular blockage. Traditional medicinal plants like Azadirachta indica and Allium cepa possess proven antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, offering potential benefits in acne management. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal face scrub containing ethanolic extracts of Azadirachta indica and Allium cepa, and to assess its physicochemical and performance characteristics. Ethanolic extracts of neem and onion were prepared by Soxhlet extraction. A face scrub was formulated using cold blending with fine sugar as an exfoliant, aloe vera gel, glycerin, and natural additives. The formulation was evaluated for organoleptic properties, pH, spreadability, grittiness, washability, homogeneity, extrudability, viscosity, and foamability. The prepared scrub displayed a greenish-brown color, pleasant herbal odor, smooth consistency, and fine, even granules. The pH (6.5 ± 0.05) was skin-compatible. The formulation showed excellent washability, homogeneity, good extrudability (3.2 ± 0.10 g/10 sec), and stable foam formation (20 mL initially, 18 mL after 1 min). The herbal face scrub combining neem and onion extracts exhibited desirable pharmaceutical properties and could serve as a safe, effective, and cosmetically acceptable formulation for acne management. Further antimicrobial and clinical studies are recommended to validate its therapeutic potential.