PHYTOPOLYMERIC HYDROGEL SCAFFOLDS OF TERMINALIA CHEBULA: A CAFFEINE-FREE COSMECEUTICAL PARADIGM FOR PERIORBITAL CARE

The evolution of dermal pharmaceutics hath ushered in an era where botanical actives and polymeric science converge to create refined cosmeceutical systems.[21,22,25] Among such advances, hydrogel scaffolds stand distinguished for their ability to provide sustained release, biocompatibility, and anatomical conformity.[23,24,26,27] This review highlights the conception and therapeutic promise of phytopolymeric hydrogel patches incorporating Terminalia chebula – a time-honored Ayurvedic fruit renowned for its antioxidant, anti-glycation, and dermal restorative properties.[1,3,4-7] Unlike conventional caffeine-based under-eye patches,[11,13,14] this caffeine-free approach offers superior compatibility for sensitive skin, mitigating concerns of irritation and transepidermal dryness.[12,15] Formulated with GRAS-compliant excipients,[58,59] the scaffold demonstrates zero-order release kinetics, prolonged hydration, and effective adhesion.[31,33,45] Furthermore, the biodegradable design aligns with contemporary principles of eco-conscious pharmaceutics.[55,60,64] By integrating traditional knowledge with the rigor of modern formulation science,[2,8,9] T.chebula hydrogel patches emerge as a novel paradigm in sustainable cosmeceutical innovation for periorbital care. This review not only synthesizes current scientific evidence but also positions phytopolymeric scaffolds as an advanced pharmaceutical strategy with the potential to transcend conventional cosmeceutical boundaries and redefine herbal dermal care.