The Effect of HPMC Concentration Variations on the Physical Quality of Matoa Leaf Extract (Pometia pinnata) Shampoo Preparations

Background: Shampoo is a cosmetic preparation used to cleanse the hair and scalp and must possess good physical quality and stability. One of the important parameters in shampoo formulation is viscosity, which influences consistency, ease of application, and product characteristics. Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose (HPMC) is a thickening agent that can increase viscosity and improve the consistency of shampoo formulations. Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of varying HPMC concentrations on the physical quality of shampoo formulations containing matoa (Pometia pinnata) leaf extract. Methods: This experimental study involved the preparation of three shampoo formulations containing different HPMC concentrations: 2% (F1), 2.5% (F2), and 3% (F3). Physical quality evaluations included organoleptic characteristics, storage stability, pH measurement, foam height, and irritation testing on volunteers. The extraction process yielded 15 grams of concentrated extract from 10,000 grams of dried plant material, corresponding to an extraction yield of 0.15%. Results: Increasing HPMC concentrations resulted in progressively thicker formulations, with F1 exhibiting a slightly thick consistency, F2 a thick consistency, and F3 a very thick consistency. All formulations demonstrated good stability during storage, with pH values ranging from 4.51 to 5.97 and foam heights ranging from 4.5 to 9.5 cm. Irritation testing revealed no signs of irritation among the volunteers for any formulation. Conclusion: Variations in HPMC concentration influenced the consistency of matoa leaf extract shampoo formulations, while all formulations demonstrated satisfactory results based on the physical quality parameters evaluated. These findings provide a basis for developing plant-based shampoo formulations with suitable physical characteristics for cosmetic applications.