Herbal Anti-Acne Face Mist: Formulation, Preparation and Evaluation

Skin is the largest organ of the human body and plays a vital role in protecting the body against environmental pollutants, microorganisms, and harmful ultraviolet radiation. In recent years, increasing exposure to pollution, stress, unhealthy lifestyle habits, and changing climatic conditions has significantly contributed to various skin disorders such as acne, premature aging, dryness, and wrinkles. Among these, acne vulgaris and skin aging are two of the most common dermatological concerns affecting individuals of different age groups. Acne vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition associated with excessive sebum production, bacterial proliferation, follicular blockage, and inflammation. The major causative microorganisms include Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus aureus. Acne not only affects physical appearance but also impacts psychological well-being and self-confidence. On the other hand, skin aging is characterized by reduced skin elasticity, formation of fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of moisture due to oxidative stress, collagen degradation, and prolonged exposure to environmental factors.

Conventional skincare products available for acne and anti-aging treatment often contain synthetic chemicals that may cause adverse effects such as irritation, dryness, redness, and skin sensitivity after prolonged use. Therefore, there is a growing interest in herbal and natural cosmetic formulations because of their safety, effectiveness, biocompatibility, and minimal side effects. Herbal ingredients rich in antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, and anti-inflammatory compounds have gained considerable attention in the cosmeceutical industry for the management of various skin conditions. Neem (Azadirachta indica), is widely recognized for its potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities due to the presence of bioactive compounds such as nimbin, nimbidin, and azadirachtin. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains glycyrrhizin, glabridin, and liquiritin, which exhibit skin-soothing, depigmenting, and anti-aging properties. Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) possesses antimicrobial and antioxidant activities attributed to compounds such as citral, limonene, and geraniol, while tea tree oil is well known for its effectiveness against acne-causing bacteria. The combination of these herbal ingredients may provide synergistic effects for improving skin health and appearance. Face mists have emerged as a popular skincare product because of their ease of application, refreshing nature, quick absorption, and ability to deliver active ingredients effectively onto the skin surface. A herbal face mist with both anti-acne and anti-wrinkle properties can serve as a multifunctional skincare solution suitable for daily use. The present study aims to formulate and evaluate a herbal anti-acne and anti-wrinkle face mist using neem, liquorice, lemongrass, and tea tree oil. The formulation was developed to provide antimicrobial, antioxidant, hydrating, and skin-rejuvenating effects while maintaining stability, safety, and user acceptability. Various physicochemical parameters and antimicrobial activities were evaluated to determine the effectiveness and suitability of the prepared formulation for topical application.

Figure 1: Label of The Formulation

1. Neem Extract

Neem extract is widely used in skincare formulations due to its powerful antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in bioactive compounds such as nimbidin and azadirachtin, neem helps reduce acne-causing bacteria, soothe skin irritation, and control excess oil secretion. It also possesses antioxidant properties that protect the skin from environmental damage. In this formulation, neem extract acts as a natural antiacne agent and promotes healthier, clearer skin. Neem is also known for its wound-healing and skin-purifying effects, making it beneficial for acne-prone and sensitive skin. It helps reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with pimples and skin infections. The herbal nature of neem makes the formulation safer and more skin-friendly for regular use. Its cooling and cleansing properties enhance the refreshing effect of the face mist.

2. Liquorice Extract

Liquorice extract is a natural herbal ingredient known for its skin-brightening, soothing, and antiinflammatory effects. It contains glabridin and flavonoids, which help reduce pigmentation, redness, and acne marks while improving overall skin tone. Liquorice also provides antioxidant protection and helps calm irritated skin. In this formulation, it enhances the soothing and skin-rejuvenating properties of the face mist while supporting acne control. The extract is also effective in reducing dark spots and uneven skin.

Liquorice complexion caused by acne and sun exposure. Its moisturizing and skin-conditioning properties help maintain soft and healthy skin. Liquorice helps protect the skin from oxidative stress and promotes a natural glow. Its gentle action makes it suitable for daily skincare formulations.

3. Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil is an essential oil with antimicrobial, astringent, and refreshing properties. It helps cleanse the skin by reducing excess oil and minimizing bacterial growth responsible for acne formation. Its natural antioxidant compounds help tone and revitalize the skin, leaving a fresh and cooling sensation after application. In this formulation, lemongrass oil contributes to the anti-acne activity and provides a pleasant herbal fragrance.

 Lemongrass Oil The oil also helps tighten pores and improve skin texture due to its natural astringent action. Its refreshing aroma provides a calming and energizing effect during application. Lemongrass oil supports skin purification and helps maintain a clean and refreshed appearance. It also enhances the overall sensory appeal of the formulation.

4. Tea Tree oil

 Tea tree oil is a well-known essential oil recognized for its strong antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It effectively fights acne causing microorganisms and helps reduce inflammation, redness, and skin irritation. Tea tree oil also helps unclog pores and control excess sebum production without excessively drying the skin. In this formulation, it acts as a key anti-acne ingredient and improves the therapeutic effectiveness of the face mist. It is widely used in cosmetic preparations for treating pimples, blemishes, and minor skin infections. The soothing action of tea tree.  Tea Tree Oil helps reduce swelling and discomfort associated with acne lesions. Its natural cleansing properties promote healthier and clearer skin with regular use. Additionally, it provides a refreshing and cooling sensation to the skin after application.

5. Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is a commonly used preservative in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. It helps prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms, thereby improving the stability and shelf life of the product. It is effective in maintaining product safety and preventing contamination during storage and use. In this formulation, sodium benzoate ensures the microbial stability and quality of the face mist. The preservative helps maintain the effectiveness and freshness of the formulation for a longer period. It is widely accepted due to its safety and compatibility with Sodium water-based cosmetic products. Sodium benzoate also helps prevent spoilage caused by environmental exposure during repeated use. Its inclusion improves the overall reliability and stability of the formulation.

6.Polysorbate 20

Polysorbate 20 is a non-ionic surfactant and solubilizing agent widely used in cosmetic formulations. It helps disperse essential oils uniformly in water-based preparations, ensuring a stable and clear formulation. It also improves the texture and consistency of the product while preventing separation of ingredients. In this formulation, polysorbate 20 is used to solubilize tea tree oil and lemongrass oil for better stability and uniform distribution throughout the face mist. It enhances the appearance and homogeneity of the formulation, making the product more visually appealing. Polysorbate 20 also improves the ease of application and spreadability of the mist on the skin. Its mild and non-irritating nature makes it suitable for topical cosmetic products. Additionally, it supports the overall stability and effectiveness of the herbal formulation.

7. Glycerine

 Glycerine is a widely used humectant and moisturizing agent in cosmetic and pharmaceutical formulations. Glycerine prevents dryness and improves the overall texture of the formulation. In this herbal anti-acne face mist, it acts as a skin conditioning agent and provides a soothing effect on the skin. It also enhances the spreadability and feel of the formulation during application. Glycerine helps maintain the moisture balance of the skin without making it excessively oily or greasy.

METHOD OF PREPARATION

1. Preparation of Neem and Liquorice Extract

 Fresh neem leaves and liquorice were cleaned properly to remove dust and impurities. The plant materials were dried, powdered, and extracted using a suitable solvent extraction method. The obtained extracts were filtered and concentrated for use in the formulation.

                                           

 Extract of Neem and Liquorice                                         Filtration of Neem Extract

                                

                        Filtration of liquorice                                                                  Filtrate

2. Preparation of Oil Phase

Tea tree oil and lemongrass oil were mixed with Polysorbate 20 in a clean beaker. The mixture was stirred properly until a clear and uniform oil phase was obtained. Polysorbate 20 acted as a solubilizer to disperse the essential oils uniformly in the aqueous medium.

3. Preparation of Aqueous Phase

 Sodium benzoate was dissolved in a small quantity of distilled water with continuous stirring. Neem extract and liquorice extract were then added to the aqueous phase and mixed thoroughly. The solution was stirred continuously to obtain a homogeneous mixture.

Aq. Phase and Oil Phase

4. Mixing and Homogenization

The prepared oil phase was slowly added to the aqueous phase with continuous stirring using a glass rod or magnetic stirrer. Stirring was continued until a clear and stable formulation was obtained. Distilled water was added to make up the final volume of the formulation.

Mixing Of Aq. And Oil Phase

5. Final Adjustment

The formulation was mixed gently to ensure uniform distribution of all ingredients. The pH of the formulation was checked and adjusted if required for skin compatibility. The prepared face mist was observed for clarity, appearance, and uniformity.

Final Product

6. Final Product

The prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was filtered if necessary and filled into a clean spray bottle or airtight container. The final product was stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight for further evaluation and use.

The Prepared Anti- Acne Face Mist

EVALUATION PARAMETERS

1. Appearance
   • Test Performed: A visual inspection was carried out immediately after formulation.
   • Result: The prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was found to be clear, homogeneous, aesthetically acceptable, and free from any visible particulate matter or phase separation.
   • Conclusion: The formulated herbal anti-acne face mist was found to be stable, effective, and suitable for providing antimicrobial, soothing, and refreshing effects for acne-prone skin.
2. Odour
   • Test Performed: The mist was smelled after cooling to room temperature.
   • Result: The prepared herbal anti-acne face mist showed a pleasant and characteristic herbal odour due to the presence of tea tree oil and lemongrass oil, which was found to be acceptable.
   • Conclusion: The organoleptic evaluation confirmed that the formulated face mist possessed an acceptable and refreshing herbal odour suitable for cosmetic application.
3. Texture
   • Test performed: The texture of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was evaluated by applying a small quantity of the formulation on the skin and observing its feel, smoothness, stickiness, spreadability, and overall consistency by manual inspection.
   • Result: The prepared herbal anti-acne face mist exhibited a smooth, light, and non-sticky texture with good spreadability on the skin.
   • Conclusion: The texture evaluation confirmed that the formulation possessed a pleasant and skin-friendly texture suitable for topical face mist application.
4. PH Determination

• Test Performed: Calibrate the PH meter using standard buffers (PH 4.0 and 7.0). Measure 10 ml of formulation. Insert the electrode into the sample and record the PH.
• Result: The pH of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was found to be approximately 5.8, which is suitable and compatible with skin Ph.
• Conclusion: The pH evaluation confirmed that the formulated herbal anti-acne face mist possessed a skin-compatible pH, making it safe and suitable for topical application without causing irritation.

PH Determination Test

5. Sprayability Test

• Test Performed: The sprayability of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was evaluated by spraying the formulation through a spray nozzle and observing the ease of spraying, uniformity of mist formation, and nozzle performance.
• Result: The formulation showed good sprayability with uniform mist formation and no clogging of the spray nozzle during application.
• Conclusion: The sprayability evaluation confirmed that the formulated face mist possessed satisfactory spraying characteristics suitable for convenient topical application.

Sprayability Test

6. After feel

• Test Performed: The after feel of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was evaluated by applying the formulation on the skin and observing smoothness, freshness, stickiness, and skin sensation after drying.
• Result: The formulation provided a cooling, refreshing, and non-sticky feel on the skin after application.
• Conclusion: The after feel evaluation confirmed that the formulated face mist possessed a pleasant and skin-friendly feel suitable for regular topical use.

7. Viscosity test

• Test Performed: Use a Brookfield viscometer, Ostwald viscometer (Spindle No. 1, 10–20 rpm). Measure viscosity at room temperature (25 ± 2 °C).
• Result: The viscosity of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was found to be approximately 4 cP at room temperature (25 ± 2 °C), indicating good flow property and suitability for spray application.
• Conclusion: The viscosity evaluation confirmed that the formulation possessed appropriate consistency and fluidity required for smooth spraying and effective topical application.

8. Stability test

• Test Performed: The stability of the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was evaluated by storing the formulation at room temperature and observing changes in appearance, colour, odour, phase separation, and homogeneity over a specified period.
• Result: The formulation remained stable with no significant changes in appearance, colour, odour, or phase separation during the study period.
• Conclusion: The stability study confirmed that the formulated herbal anti-acne face mist possessed good physical stability and was suitable for storage and regular use.

9. Irritancy test (Patch test)

• Test performed: Apply 0.5 ml on a small area of inner forearm. Cover with a patch for 24 hours. Observe any signs of redness, itching, or irritation.
• Result: No redness, itching, irritation, or any allergic reaction was observed on the applied area after 24 hours of patch application, indicating good skin compatibility of the formulation.
• Conclusion: The patch test confirmed that the formulated herbal anti-acne face mist was safe, non-irritating, and suitable for topical application on the skin.

DISCUSSION

The formulated herbal anti-acne face mist exhibited a clear and homogeneous appearance with a light greenish-yellow colour and pleasant characteristic herbal odour. The formulation showed good sprayability with uniform mist formation and no clogging of the spray nozzle during application. The texture of the face mist was smooth, light, and non-sticky, providing a refreshing and soothing feel after application on the skin. The pH of the formulation was found to be within the acceptable skin-friendly range (5.5–6.0), indicating suitability for topical application without causing irritation. The viscosity was observed to be low and appropriate for effective spray application and easy spreadability. Stability studies showed no significant changes in colour, odour, appearance, or phase separation during the storage period, confirming good physical stability of the formulation. The patch test indicated that the formulation was non-irritating and safe for skin application, as no redness, itching, or allergic reactions were observed. Neem extract and tea tree oil contributed significant antimicrobial and anti-acne activity, while liquorice extract provided soothing and skin brightening effects. Lemongrass oil imparted refreshing and astringent properties to the formulation. Overall, the prepared herbal anti-acne face mist was found to be stable, aesthetically acceptable, safe, and suitable for daily skincare use.

CONCLUSION

The herbal anti-acne face mist was successfully formulated using natural ingredients such as neem extract, liquorice extract, tea tree oil, and lemongrass oil along with suitable excipients. The formulation showed good physical stability, acceptable pH, appropriate viscosity, and excellent sprayability for topical application. The face mist exhibited a smooth, non-sticky texture with a pleasant herbal odour and refreshing after feel, making it aesthetically acceptable and consumer-friendly. The antimicrobial, soothing, and antioxidant properties of the herbal ingredients contributed to the anti-acne effectiveness of the formulation. Stability and patch test studies confirmed that the formulation was stable, safe, and non-irritating to the skin. This project demonstrated that a cost-effective and herbal anti-acne face mist can be successfully developed at laboratory scale using skin-friendly natural ingredients. The prepared formulation showed good potential for daily skincare use and may serve as a promising herbal cosmetic preparation for acne-prone skin.

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