FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL ANTI-ACNE CREAM WITH EXTRACTION OF NEEM AND LICORICE

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorders affecting adolescents and young adults. It is characterized by the formation of pimples, papules, pustules, and Comedones due to excessive sebum production, bacterial infection, and inflammation of the pilosebaceous glands. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate herbal anti-acne cream containing natural ingredients such as Neem (Azadirachta indica) extract, Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) extracts, and Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis) which possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. The herbal cream was prepared by the emulsification method using suitable excipients, including bees wax, almond oil, liquid paraffin, glycerine, and cetostearyl alcohol. The prepared formulations were evaluated for various physicochemical parameters such as appearance, pH, spreadability, viscosity, washability, extrudability, irritancy, and stability. The results indicated that the formulations exhibited acceptable physicochemical characteristics and good stability without causing skin irritation. Among the formulations, F3 showed better spreadability, suitable pH, and excellent consistency. The study concluded that the formulated herbal anti-acne cream is safe, effective, and can be considered a promising alternative for the management of acne vulgaris.