Formulation and Evaluation of Bio-Glow Facial Elixir Using Natural Ingredientst

The cosmetic and personal care industry has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, with a noticeable shift in consumer preferences toward natural, herbal-based, and chemical-free skincare products. Increasing public awareness about the potential side effects of synthetic ingredients, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, premature aging, and long-term health concerns, has driven the demand for plant-based alternatives. The modern consumer is no longer focused solely on beauty enhancement but also values the safety, sustainability, and therapeutic benefits of the products they choose. This changing trend has led to the rapid rise of cosmeceuticals, a category of skincare products that blend cosmetic and pharmaceutical benefits, often enriched with bioactive natural ingredients to improve skin health. Among the wide range of cosmeceutical products, facial elixirs have gained significant popularity for their unique ability to provide intense nourishment, hydration, and a visible glow to the skin. Facial elixirs are lightweight, concentrated formulations typically composed of essential oils, herbal extracts, vitamins, and other skin-beneficial compounds. Unlike conventional creams and lotions, elixirs possess a finer consistency, allowing them to penetrate deeper skin layers and deliver active constituents more effectively. They are designed not just for cosmetic enhancement but also to address common skin concerns such as dryness, dullness, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and loss of elasticity. Several research studies and recent publications have explored the skin-benefiting properties of natural ingredients. For example, rosehip seed oil is well-known for its rich content of essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, which promote skin regeneration and reduce signs of aging. Similarly, aloe vera gel has been extensively studied for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating effects, making it a staple ingredient in many natural skincare formulations. Another highly regarded ingredient, hyaluronic acid, is a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan in the skin that plays a crucial role in moisture retention, enhancing skin plumpness, and maintaining elasticity. Recent cosmetic research highlights the effectiveness of combining these herbal ingredients in facial skincare products to improve skin radiance, texture, and overall appearance without causing adverse reactions. The significance of the present study lies in the formulation and evaluation of a Bio Glow Facial Elixir using natural, safe, and skin-friendly ingredients. While numerous commercial products make claims of offering similar benefits, many still rely on synthetic stabilizers, preservatives, and fragrances, which can compromise skin health with prolonged use. This research aims to develop a purely herbal facial elixir formulation and assess its physicochemical characteristics, spread ability, pH, viscosity, stability, and skin compatibility through standard evaluation methods. The goal is to create a product that delivers effective skincare benefits, addresses common facial skin issues, and offers a natural alternative to synthetic cosmetic products. The cosmetic and personal care industry has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, marked by a distinct shift in consumer preferences toward natural, herbal-based, and chemical-free skincare products. With increasing awareness about the adverse effects of synthetic cosmetic ingredients, including skin irritation, allergic reactions, premature aging, and long-term toxicity modern consumers are seeking plant-based alternatives that are both effective and safe. This evolving trend has significantly contributed to the rapid rise of cosmeceuticals, a specialized category of skincare products formulated with bioactive natural compounds, offering both cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Within this domain, facial elixirs have gained particular popularity for their unique ability to deliver concentrated nourishment and hydration, promoting a healthy, radiant complexion. An elixir, traditionally defined as a clear, sweetened, hydroalcoholic preparation used medicinally, has been adapted in modern skincare to refer to a lightweight, fast-absorbing formulation enriched with essential oils, botanical extracts, vitamins, and skin-friendly bioactive ingredients. Facial elixirs are typically applied as part of a daily skincare routine to address specific concerns such as dryness, dullness, uneven tone, and early signs of aging, while simultaneously enhancing skin texture and glow. Notably, the United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recognizes skincare products like elixirs under the broader category of cosmetics, provided that no therapeutic or drug-like claims are made. The USFDA permits the marketing of such products for enhancing appearance, moisturizing, or improving skin tone, provided they do not claim to alter the structure or function of the skin. This regulatory allowance has encouraged cosmetic manufacturers globally to introduce plant-based facial elixirs as natural, safe, and consumer-friendly skincare solutions (USFDA Cosmetic Labelling Guide, 2022). Numerous research studies and recent publications have validated the benefits of natural ingredients in skincare formulations. For instance, rosehip seed oil is rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, known to promote skin regeneration and reduce visible signs of aging. Aloe vera gel is widely valued for its soothing, anti-inflammatory, and hydrating effects. Furthermore, hyaluronic acid, a naturally occurring glycosaminoglycan, has been shown to retain moisture and improve skin elasticity. Recent studies confirm that combining these herbal ingredients in facial elixirs can effectively improve skin radiance, texture, and hydration without causing adverse reactions. The significance of the present study lies in the formulation and evaluation of a Bio Glow Facial Elixir using natural, skin-friendly ingredients. While several commercial products claim similar benefits, many continue to include synthetic preservatives, stabilizers, and fragrances that may harm the skin over time. This research aims to develop a purely herbal facial elixir and assess its physicochemical properties, spread ability, pH, viscosity, stability, and skin compatibility through standard evaluation protocols. Moreover, this study holds relevance in view of the increasing global demand for sustainable, cruelty-free, and eco-friendly skincare products. The development of herbal cosmeceuticals supports the principles of green chemistry and ethical consumerism, aligning with both market trends and consumer expectations. By contributing valuable insights into the formulation and evaluation of natural facial elixirs, this research opens avenues for future clinical studies, market introduction, and large-scale production of safe and effective nature-derived skincare solutions

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

5. Materials

The following ingredients were selected for the formulation of the Bio Glow Facial Elixir based on their recognized cosmetic benefits and compatibility in natural skincare preparations. All ingredients used were of pharmaceutical or cosmetic grade and procured from certified suppliers. Natural Aloe Vera gel was freshly extracted from mature leaves for use in Formulation F3. Distilled water was used as the primary solvent to avoid any microbial or chemical contamination.

Each ingredient was chosen for its specific role in enhancing the stability, efficacy, and sensory attributes of the elixir.

Table 1: List of ingredients used in the formulation of Bio Glow Facial Elixir with their respective functions and quantities in F1, F2, and F3 formulations.

5. METHOD:

Each formulation was prepared by following a sequential mixing procedure:

1. The aqueous phase was prepared by mixing distilled water, glycerin, and rose water in a clean beaker with continuous stirring using a magnetic stirrer at 500 rpm.
2. Separately, the oil phase containing Sweet Almond Oil, Rosehip Seed Oil, Vitamin E Oil, Lavender Essential Oil, and Polysorbate 20 was blended until uniform.
3. Hyaluronic acid was dispersed gradually into the aqueous phase while stirring to ensure uniform hydration.
4. The oil phase was then slowly incorporated into the aqueous phase with continuous stirring to form a uniform emulsion.
5. Finally, Aloe Vera gel (freshly extracted for F3 and commercially sourced for F1 and F2) was added with gentle mixing.
6. The formulations were stirred continuously for 30 minutes to obtain a homogeneous elixir, which was transferred into amber glass bottles and stored at room temperature.

5. Evaluation Parameters for Bio Facial Elixir

1. Appearance and Colour: The physical appearance and colour of the prepared bio facial elixir were assessed visually under natural light.
2. Odour: The aroma of the bio facial elixir was evaluated organoleptically by a panel of ten volunteers.
3. PH Determination: The pH of the formulation was measured to ensure skin compatibility. One millilitre of the elixir was diluted with ten millilitres of distilled water in a 1:10 ratio and measured using a digital pH meter.
4. Viscosity: Viscosity was determined using a Brookfield viscometer at 25°C, employing spindle number 64 at 100 rpm.
5. Spreadability: Spreadability was assessed to determine the ease and uniformity of application over the skin surface. A fixed amount of the formulation was placed between two glass slides, followed by applying a standard weight of 500 grams. The diameter of the spread area was measured.
6. Force of Application:

Although not critical for gel-based formulations, the force of application was evaluated to assess how easily the elixir spreads under normal hand pressure. A defined quantity of the elixir was applied onto a paper surface using a cotton pad. The formulation spread smoothly with minimal effort, indicating desirable application characteristics and smooth texture.

7. Irritability Test (Patch Test):

A patch test was performed on the inner forearm of ten healthy human volunteers to assess skin tolerance and potential irritability. A small quantity of the elixir was applied and left undisturbed for 30 minutes and observation was recorded.

8. Homogeneity:

Homogeneity was visually examined by inspecting the formulation for uniformity of ingredients.

9. Washability:

Washability was evaluated by applying a small quantity of the elixir on the skin and rinsing with water after five minutes.

10. Microbial Load Test:

To ensure microbiological safety, the formulation underwent microbial load testing. Samples were inoculated on nutrient agar and Sabouraud dextrose agar plates, followed by incubation at 37°C for 24 to 48 hours.

11. Stability Study:

A stability study was conducted to evaluate the formulation's physical integrity and shelf life under various storage conditions.

RESULT:

The formulated bio facial elixir was successfully prepared using selected botanical and cosmeceutical ingredients. The final product was evaluated for various physicochemical and organoleptic parameters, and the results confirmed that the formulation possessed desirable characteristics suitable for topical facial application.

Table No. 3– Evaluation Parameters of Bio Facial Elixir