Formulation and Evaluation of Polyherbal Gel for Management of Acne and Hyperpigmentation

Acne vulgaris is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin disorders affecting adolescents and adults worldwide. It is characterized by pimples, redness, swelling, hyperpigmentation, and irritation caused mainly due to excessive sebum production, follicular blockage, bacterial growth, and inflammation. The major bacterium involved in acne formation is Cutibacterium acnes, formerly known as Propionibacterium acnes. When excess sebum, dead skin cells, and blocked pores accumulate on the skin surface, this bacterium proliferates rapidly and breaks down sebum into free fatty acids, leading to inflammation, redness, swelling, and acne lesions. Several enzymes also play an important role in acne pathogenesis, including lipase, protease, hyaluronidase, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and 5-alpha reductase. Lipase produced by C. acnes hydrolyzes triglycerides into irritating fatty acids, while protease and hyaluronidase contribute to tissue damage and spread of inflammation. Matrix metalloproteinases are associated with collagen degradation and acne scar formation, whereas 5-alpha reductase increases sebum secretion by converting testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The current research is based on the development and evaluation of a polyherbal gel formulation for acne and hyperpigmentation treatment, where herbs such as neem, turmeric, Glycyrrhiza glabra, and Aloe vera have been used. Herbs contain various properties such as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, depigmenting, and wound healing abilities that could aid in the prevention of acne bacteria and improving skin conditions with least adverse effects. The formulation of polyherbal gel has been achieved by utilizing the dispersion technique, where Carbopol 934 has been used as a gelling agent. Physiochemical evaluation was performed to check the appearance, pH value, homogeneity, spreadability, viscosity, washability, extrudability, stability, and antimicrobial activity of the gel. The formulated polyherbal gel exhibited good physical characteristics and possessed anti-acne activity against C. acnes. Therefore, the developed formulation may serve as a safe, effective, and economical herbal alternative for the treatment and management of acne vulgaris and associated hyperpigmentation.1,9