Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Face Pack

In recent years, the global trend toward natural and organic products has significantly increased, particularly in the cosmetic and skincare industries. Consumers are increasingly seeking safer, chemical-free alternatives to synthetic skincare products, which often carry risks of side effects such as allergies, skin irritation, and long-term health concerns. In this context, herbal cosmetics have gained immense popularity due to their natural origin, biocompatibility, minimal side effects, and traditional efficacy¹. A face pack is a skincare formulation typically applied to the face in the form of a paste or mask to cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate the skin. It plays a vital role in maintaining facial skin health by removing dead skin cells, excess oil, and impurities, while also providing therapeutic benefits like anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening effects. Herbal face packs, in particular, are made from a combination of natural plant-based powders, clays, and other ingredients rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and essential nutrients. Traditional Ayurvedic and herbal medicine systems have long recommended the use of natural substances such as Multani mitti (Fuller's Earth), neem (Azadirachta indica), turmeric (Curcuma longa), sandalwood (Santalum album), and rose petals (Rosa indica) for skincare. These ingredients have been scientifically recognized for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, cooling, and skin-toning properties. The present study aims to formulate a herbal face pack using a combination of these natural ingredients and to evaluate its physicochemical characteristics and overall effectiveness. The formulation is intended to be suitable for all skin types, particularly oily and acne-prone skin, and free from harmful synthetic additives or preservatives. The evaluation includes tests for parameters such as texture, pH, color, spreadability, stability, irritancy, and user acceptability, to ensure the product is both effective and safe for regular use. By developing a standardized, effective herbal face pack, this study contributes to the growing field of herbal cosmetics and supports the integration of traditional remedies into modern skincare practices².

OBJECTIVES:

1. To formulate a herbal face pack using natural ingredients known for their skin-beneficial properties such as cleansing, exfoliating, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.

2. To evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of the prepared face pack, including appearance, texture, pH, spreadability, and moisture content.

3. To assess the stability of the herbal face pack under different storage conditions.

4. To evaluate the safety and skin compatibility of the formulation through irritancy and patch tests.

5. To analyze the effectiveness of the herbal face pack in improving skin texture, reducing acne, and providing a healthy glow through user feedback or observational studies.

6. To provide a natural, cost-effective, and safe alternative to commercial synthetic skincare products³.

DRUG PROFILE

1.Multani Mitti :

Biological Source: 

 It is a natural clay composed mainly of hydrated aluminum silicates with variable amounts of magnesium, calcium, and iron.

Uses: 

1. Used in face packs for its oil-absorbing and cleansing properties. 
2. Helps in removing impurities, dead skin cells, and excess sebum from the skin. 
3. Has a cooling effect on the skin and is often used to treat acne, pimples, and blemishes. 
4. Improves skin tone and blood circulation. 
5. Sometimes used as a hair cleanser or scalp treatment for oily hair and dandruff⁴.

2. Turmeric:

Synonym: Haldi ,  Indian Saffron

Biological Source:   - It consists of the dried rhizomes of Curcuma longa Linn.

Family: Zingiberaceae Ginger family)

 Uses: 

1. Acts as a natural antiseptic and antibacterial agent helpful in treating wounds and skin infections. 
2. Has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. 
3. Commonly used in herbal face packs for improving skin complexion, reducing acne, and soothing inflammation. 
4. Helps reduce hyper pigmentation, dark spots, and gives skin a natural glow. 
5. Also used internally for boosting immunity, aiding digestion, and managing joint inflammation⁵.

3. Sandalwood:

Synonym: Chandan, White Sandalwood

Biological Source: 

- It is obtained from the heartwood of Santalum album Linn.

Family: Santalaceae

Uses:

1. Known for its cooling, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties. 
2. Used in herbal face packs to reduce acne, blemishes, and skin irritation. 
3. Helps in brightening the skin tone and gives a natural glow
4. Acts as a natural astringent, tightening the skin and reducing oiliness. 
5. Its aromatic nature makes it a common ingredient in perfumes and cosmetic products. 
6. Also used in Ayurvedic medicine for treating skin diseases, headaches, and fever⁶.

4. Saffron:

Synonym: Kesar, Zafran

Biological Source: 

 It consists of the dried stigmas of the flower of Crocus sativus Linn.

Family: Iridaceae

Uses:

1. Known for its skin-brightening and complexion-enhancing properties. 
2. Used in herbal face packs to reduce dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and improve skin radiance. 
3. Contains powerful antioxidants like crocin and safranal that help fight skin aging and damage from free radicals. 
4. Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for improving complexion, treating acne, and reducing inflammation. 
5. Also used internally as a tonic, appetite stimulant, and for treating menstrual and respiratory disorders⁷.

5. Milk Powder:

Synonym: Dried Milk, Powdered Milk

Biological Source:

Obtained by spray drying or dehydrating milk, usually from the cow Bos taurus.

Uses:

1. Rich in lactic acid, which acts as a natural exfoliant helping to remove dead skin cells and promote glowing skin. 
2. Used in herbal face packs for skin softening, moisturizing, and brightening effects. 
3. Contains proteins and vitamins (like vitamin B12 and D) that nourish and rejuvenate the skin. 
4. Helps to lighten pigmentation, soothe sunburn, and reduce dryness. 
5. Often included in DIY skincare⁸.

6. Rice Flour:

Synonym:  Chawal ka Atta, Ground Rice

Biological Source: 

- It is obtained from the seeds (grains) of Oryza sativa Linn.

Family:  Poacea (Grass family)

Uses:

1. Acts as natural exfoliant, helping to remove dead skin cells and improve skin texture
2. Used in face packs to brighten the skin, reduce dark spots, and control oiliness. 
3. Contains ferulic acid and allantoin, which provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. 
4. Helps in soothing irritated skin and improving overall complexion. 
5. Commonly used in DIY skincare as a gentle scrub base, especially for sensitive and acne-prone skin⁹.

7. Orange Peel:

Synonym:  Narangi Chilka, Citrus Peel

Biological Source: Dried peel of the fruit of Citrus sinensis (Sweet Orange)

Family:  Rutaceae

Uses: 

1. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, helps in brightening the skin and boosting collagen production. 
2. Used in face packs to control excess oil, reduce acne, and tighten pores.
3. Acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and improving skin tone and texture 
4. Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, beneficial for acne-prone skin. 
5. Helps in reducing blemishes, dark spots, and gives a natural glow to the skin¹⁰.

8. Neem Powder:

Synonym:  Margosa, Indian Lilac, Neem Patta Churna

Biological Source: 

It is obtained from the dried leaves of Azadirachta indica A. Juss.

Family: Meliaceae

Uses: 

1. Has strong antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties—effective in treating acne, pimples, and skin infections
2. Used in herbal face packs to purify the skin, control excess oil, and prevent breakouts
3. Helps in healing wounds, reducing itchiness, and soothing irritated skin
4. Acts as a natural detoxifier making the skin clearer and healthier. 
5. Also used in treating dandruff, scalp infections, and as an ingredient in oral care products¹¹.

Herbal Face Pack Formulation (25 grams):

Preparation Steps:

1. Gather all ingredients: Collect all the ingredients listed above in their measured amounts.
2. Prepare a clean bowl: Ensure that your mixing bowl is clean and dry before use.
3. Mix the dry ingredients: In the bowl, add the following dry ingredients:
   • Sandalwood Powder (5g)
   • Multani Mitti (7g)
   • Neem Powder (3g)
   • Orange Peel Powder (2g)
   • Turmeric Powder (1g)
   • Saffron Powder (0.5g)
   • Rice Flour (3g)
   • Milk Powder (2.5g)

Stir them together thoroughly using a spoon or spatula. Ensure the powders are well-mixed and evenly distributed.

4. Prepare the liquid for mixing: Gradually add milk (or rose water) to the dry mixture, about a teaspoon at a time, and stir constantly until you achieve a smooth, paste-like consistency. You want the consistency to be thick enough to spread easily on your face without dripping.
5. Check the consistency: If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk or rose water. If it’s too runny, add a little more of the dry powders to thicken the paste.
6. Test the paste: Before applying it to your face, test a small amount of the paste on your wrist or behind your ear to make sure you don’t have any allergic reactions or skin irritation.
7. Apply the face pack: Once the paste is ready and you've done a patch test, apply the mask evenly to your face and neck using your fingers or a brush. Avoid the eye and lip areas.
8. Let the mask sit: Leave the mask on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes. It will dry out and tighten as it works on your skin.
9. Rinse off the face pack: Once the mask has dried, gently dampen your face with lukewarm water and begin massaging the mask off in circular motions. This will help exfoliate your skin. Rinse thoroughly to remove all traces of the mask.
10. Pat dry: After removing the mask, pat your face dry with a clean towel.
11. Follow up with moisturizer: After the face pack, apply a mild moisturizer to keep your skin soft and hydrated¹².

Storage (Optional):

• If you have any leftover mixture, you can store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. However, it's best to make fresh batches each time for maximum efficacy¹³.

Instructions for Use:

1. Mixing: In a clean bowl, combine all the dry ingredients.
2. Adding liquid: Add enough milk or rose water to form a smooth paste.
3. Application: Apply the paste evenly to your face and neck.
4. Leave it on: Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes until it dries.
5. Rinse off: Gently rinse off with lukewarm water while massaging the skin in circular motions for exfoliation¹⁴.

RESULT

Herbal Face Pack Were Prepared By Containing Ingredients Like Sandalwood Powder Multani Mitti, Neem Powder, Orange Peel Powder, Turmeric Powder, Saffron Powder, Rice Flour, Milk Powder.

Evaluation Tests for Herbal Face Pack