Development And Evaluation of Anti-Acne Gel Using Neem and Garlic Extracts

ABSTRACT Acne vulgaris, a long-term skin problem, predominantly affects adolescents and young adults. It is mainly associated with bacterial colonisation, inflammatory response, blocked pilosebaceous units and excess sebum production. The principle causative microorganisms of acne are Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Chronic application of synthetically produced antibiotics results in antibiotic resistance, diminished activity and adverse reactions. Acne vulgaris is a long-term skin problem causing adolescents and young adults. It is largely related to inflammatory response, blocked pilosebaceous units, bacterial colonisation and excess sebum production. Microorganisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis are the main agent of acne. Long-term application of synthetically made antibiotics causes antibiotic resistance, decrease in effect and adverse effects. Therefore, there is a growing requirement for safe, natural and effective anti-acne therapy. Several physiochemical criteria such as colour, odour, consistency, homogeneity, pH, spreadability and extrudability were studied for the formulated gel. The results revealed that the gel had excellent spreadability and a pH suitable for skin application along with excellent physical properties. Outcomes proved significant zones of inhibition to indicate the antibacterial effectiveness of the formulation. In conclusion, the developed polyherbal gel had an excellent stability, patient appealing properties along with promising anti-acne activity. Synergizing neem and garlic yield synergistic effects, and the formulation provides a safe, economical and efficacious alternative to conventional synthetic anti-acne medications. Key Words: Acne vulgaris, Herbal gel, Azadirachta indica, Allium sativum, Antibacterial activity