The widespread use of synthetic and non-biodegradable ingredients -based sanitizers has raised concerns due to associated skin irritation, environmental toxicity, and long-term ecological impact. This study aimed to formulate and evaluate an ecofriendly nanoemulgel-based sanitizer incorporating essential oils as natural antimicrobial agents. A microwave-based method was employed to prepare nanoemulsions using pseudo-ternary phase diagrams composed of lavender/lemon essential oils 1:0.5 % (w/w), polyoxyethylene (80) sorbitan monooleate, propylene glycol (1:1 w/w), and distilled water. Five optimized nanoemulsion samples (EN1–EN5) were selected for incorporation into carbomer 940-based hydrogels, resulting in green nanoemulgel formulations (S1–S5). All formulations were subjected to physicochemical, pH, rheological, antimicrobial, and dermatological evaluations. Statistical significance was determined using one-way ANOVA (p≤0.05). The green nanoemulsion formulations displayed nanometric droplet sizes, low polydispersity, and stable surface charges. The resulting green nanoemulgels were clear, homogenous, non-irritating, and exhibited slightly acidic pH values. Rheological assessment showed plastic flow behavior suitable for topical application. Notably, the green nanoemulsion formulations demonstrated the highest antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus. aureus, in comparison to Escherichia. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus epidermidis, with no adverse skin effects observed in human volunteers. The study confirms the successful development of a stable, biodegradable, non-alcoholic, ecofriendly sanitizer with enhanced antimicrobial efficacy and user compatibility. The integration of lavender and lemon essential oils into a nanoemulsion-based hydrogel system offers a promising natural alternative to conventional sanitizers, aligning with public health and environmental sustainability goals.
Dr. Hayder Kadhim Drais (Sun,) studied this question.