FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ALOE VERA AND RICE WATER-BASED HERBAL FACE WASH CONTAINING JAIPHAL FOR SKIN BRIGHTENING AND PIGMENTATION REDUCTION

The present study was aimed at the formulation and evaluation of a herbal face wash containing natural ingredients such as Aloe vera, rice water, and Jaiphal (Myristica fragrans).[4,7,14] Herbal cosmetic formulations are widely preferred due to their safety, effectiveness, and reduced side effects compared to synthetic products.[10,13] Aloe vera possesses moisturizing, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties, while rice water is known for its skin nourishing and brightening effects.[4,7] Jaiphal exhibits antioxidant and antimicrobial activities that may help reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture.[14,20] The herbal face wash gel was prepared using fresh Aloe vera gel, rice water, Jaiphal powder, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), xanthan gum, glycerin, Vitamin E oil, preservative, and distilled water. The prepared formulation was evaluated for various physicochemical parameters including appearance, pH, consistency, spreadability, foamability, washability, irritancy, and stability.[1,12] The prepared formulation showed good homogeneity, satisfactory cleansing action, acceptable pH, and suitable consistency for topical application. No visible irritation or instability was observed during the evaluation study.[19] The results indicated that the prepared herbal face wash may serve as a safe, effective, and economical natural formulation for skin cleansing, brightening, and reduction of pigmentation.[10,13]