FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ACNE FACE WASH CONTAINING TULSI, NEEM, AND ACTIVATED CHARCOAL

*Mansi Kamble, Tanvi Kadam, Kishorkumar Kalor

ABSTRACT

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder caused by excessive sebum production, bacterial growth, clogged pores, and inflammation. Conventional anti-acne therapies often produce side effects such as dryness, irritation, and skin sensitivity, creating a demand for safer herbal alternatives. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal anti-acne face wash containing Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum), Neem (Azadirachta indica), and Activated Charcoal. Tulsi and Neem were selected for their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and sebum-regulating properties, while Activated Charcoal was incorporated for its detoxifying and oil-absorbing action. The herbal extracts were prepared using a hydroalcoholic extraction method. The formulation was prepared using ingredients such as liquid soap base, aloe vera gel, glycerin, Carbopol 934, tragacanth gum, rose water, sodium benzoate, and citric acid. The prepared face wash was evaluated for physicochemical parameters including colour, odour, consistency, pH, spreadability, washability, foamability, and sensitivity. The formulation showed a greyish-black appearance, pleasant odour, semisolid consistency, good foamability, easy washability, and skin-friendly pH. No irritation or phase separation was observed. The study concluded that the formulated herbal face wash is a safe, effective, and economical alternative for acne management with promising therapeutic potential.

Keywords: Tulsi, Neem, Activated Charcoal, Facewash, Acne, Aloe vera gel.