A Novel Approach to Herbal Skincare: Preparation and Evaluation of Daucus carota-Based Vanishing Cream

Abstract

Background: The increasing demand for natural cosmetic products has driven research into plant-based alternatives to synthetic formulations. Vanishing creams are oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions widely used for their non-greasy texture and skin-smoothing properties. Synthetic creams, though effective, often lead to undesirable skin reactions. In this study, an herbal vanishing cream was formulated using an ethanolic extract of Daucus carota (carrot), a plant known for its rich content of ?-carotene, vitamins A, K, B6, and antioxidants. Objective: To design, develop, and evaluate a natural vanishing cream incorporating the ethanolic taproot extract of Daucus carota with moisturizing, anti-aging, and non-irritant properties. Methods: Fresh carrots were subjected to Soxhlet extraction using ethanol as a solvent. The extract was then screened for phytochemicals, revealing the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, and phenolic compounds. The vanishing cream was prepared via melt emulsification using standard cosmetic excipients. The formulation was evaluated for pH, Spreadability, viscosity, homogeneity, emulsion type, extrudability, and skin irritancy. Results: The cream exhibited favorable physicochemical characteristics including pH (6.7–6.98), Spreadability (11.30–13.33 g·cm/sec), and viscosity (~5250 cps). No signs of erythema, oedema, or skin irritation were observed in a 72-hour human patch test. The cream remained stable with no phase separation or texture alteration at room temperature. Phytochemical constituents present in Daucus carota contributed to its antioxidant, anti-wrinkle, and moisturizing effects. Conclusion: The formulated herbal vanishing cream showed excellent stability, cosmetic appeal, and skin compatibility. Rich in natural bioactives, it offers a safe and effective alternative to synthetic creams. Further studies are warranted to explore its long-term efficacy and consumer acceptability.

Keywords

Introduction

Background

The contemporary cosmetics industry is dominated by formulations of synthetic origin, many of which are designed to enhance appearance but often come with undesirable dermatological side effects [01]. Among these, vanishing creams—typically oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions—are favored for their quick absorption and smooth, non-greasy texture. While they offer aesthetic benefits such as a brightening effect and smoother skin surface, prolonged use of synthetic formulations has been linked to skin irritation and hypersensitivity reactions [02]. In contrast, natural extracts have gained significant attention in the formulation of cosmetic products due to their biocompatibility, minimal side effects, and additional pharmacological properties. Herbal ingredients are not only safer for prolonged use but also provide therapeutic benefits such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory effects [03]. Carrot (Daucus carota), a widely cultivated root vegetable, is rich in bioactive compounds such as beta-carotene, vitamin A, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. These constituents have been shown to support skin health, enhance wound healing, and delay signs of aging [04]. Daucus carota, particularly its ethanolic taproot extract, is reported to offer moisturizing and soothing effects when applied topically. The antioxidant properties of the root extract further contribute to skin rejuvenation by scavenging free radicals and protecting against environmental stressors [05]. Given these benefits, the present research aimed to design, develop, and evaluate a vanishing cream incorporating ethanolic taproot extract of Daucus carota. The goal was to formulate a product that provides hydration and skin protection without causing irritation, thus offering an alternative to synthetic formulations. Vanishing creams derive their name from their ability to disappear upon application, leaving behind a smooth, matte finish. As oil-in-water emulsions, they consist of fine droplets of oil dispersed in a continuous water phase, making them cosmetically elegant, easily washable, and less greasy compared to water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions [06]. The carrot-based vanishing cream formulated in this study was evaluated based on parameters such as consistency, spreadability, pH, and skin compatibility to determine its effectiveness as a safe and functional cosmetic product.

METHODOLOGY

Carrot (Daucus carota) is a rich source of essential nutrients including vitamin A, vitamin K1, vitamin B6, potassium, biotin, and bioactive compounds such as α-carotene and β-carotene, which have well-documented benefits for skin health. These constituents contribute to antioxidant protection, collagen preservation, acne prevention, and enhanced skin elasticity [07]. Specifically, vitamin A plays a critical role in cellular regeneration and protection against photoaging, while β-carotene supports the skin’s defense against UV radiation [08].

Plant Profile

• Botanical name: Daucus carota
• Synonyms: Gajor, Carota sativa (Hoffm.) Rupr, Daucus sativus (Hoffm.)
• Family: Apiaceae
• Geographical origin: Native to Europe and Western to Central Asia
• Useful part: Taproot
• Main constituents: Carotenes (α- and β-), vitamins A, K1, B6, C, calcium, potassium, lycopene (in red variants) [09]

Fig No.1 Daucus Carota

Materials Used

A. Excipients and Their Sources- All excipients including stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, triethanolamine, glycerine, methyl paraben, and propyl paraben were procured from reputed chemical suppliers such as SD Lab Chemical Centre (Mumbai) and Research Lab Fine Chem Industries (Islampur).

B. Equipment Used

• Soxhlet apparatus – for extraction
• Brookfield Viscometer – for viscosity measurement
• Spreadability apparatus – for evaluating application properties
• Optical microscope – for determining emulsion type

Extraction Method

Fresh carrots were procured locally, washed, and chopped into small pieces. The extraction of bioactive compounds, primarily β-carotene, was carried out using the Soxhlet extraction technique. Approximately 100 ml of ethanol was used as the solvent for extraction due to its high polarity and compatibility with carotenoids [10]. The chopped carrot samples were ground and introduced into the Soxhlet apparatus for 30 minutes. Afterward, the mixture was filtered, and the filtrate was evaporated using a heating mantle to remove ethanol. The concentrated extract containing β-carotene was then collected and stored under refrigeration until formulation. Selection of the appropriate solvent is critical in carotenoid extraction, given their hydrophobic nature. Ethanol was chosen for this study due to its moderate polarity, effectiveness, and safety in cosmetic applications. Although solvents such as hexane, chloroform, and acetone have been used in other studies, ethanol remains a preferred option for herbal formulations to ensure consumer safety [11].

Fig. No: 02 Extraction Process

Formulation Procedure

Fig No 03 – Steps to create Vanishing Cream

Table No 02 - Evaluation of Vanishing Cream containing ethanolic extract.

Parameters	Procedure	Result
Physical Properties-	Colour Odour Appearance	White Pleasant Smooth
Washability -	The cream was applied on the hand and observed under running water.	Easily washable
pH-	Weighed 10 mg of cream, dissolved in 10 ml of d/wand its pH was measured with the help of digital pH meter.
Viscosity-	Viscosity of cream was determined by Brookfield viscometer	27025cps
Spreadability Test-	The spread ability of formulated cream was judged by spread ability apparatus	Uniform and easily spread.
Homogeneity-	Homogeneity tested via visual appearance	Homogenous
Determination of Type of Emulsion-     i) Dye Test-	The Amaranth solution was mixed with cream. Placed a drop of cream on a microscopic slide, covered it with a cover slip, and examined it under a microscope. If continuous phase appears in red colour the cream is o/w type. If dispersed phase appears red coloured globules the cream is w/o type.	Continuous phase appears in red colour so the cream is o/w type.
ii) Formation of Creaming-	Heated the sample vanishing cream in suitable test tube for 10 mins and observed the result. If creaming is upward then emulsion is o/w type. If the creaming is downward then the emulsion is w/o type.	Creaming is upward hence o/w type emulsion.
Patch Test-	About 1 gm of material to be tested was applied directly to the hands on skin. The cosmetic to be tested was applied on area of 1 sq.m of the skin. The site of patch was inspected after 24 hrs. As there was no reaction the test was repeated three times. If reaction is not observed on third application, the person may be taken as non- hypersensitive.	No any reaction is observed.
Smear Type-	The test was conducted after the application of cream on the skin. The smear formed can be oily or aqueous in nature.	Non-Greasy in nature
Determination of Emollience	Emollience, slipperiness and amount of residue left after the application of fixed amount of cream was checked.	No residue on skin

CONCLUSION

In the present study, a vanishing cream formulation incorporating ethanolic extract of Daucus carota was successfully designed, developed, and evaluated using simple methods and minimal equipment. The formulation demonstrated promising stability and cosmetic acceptability. Key evaluation parameters such as pH (6.70 and 6.98), spreadability (11.30 g·cm/sec and 13.33 g·cm/sec), and tube extrudability confirmed the suitability of the product for topical application. Notably, the carrot-based cream maintained good physical integrity, while the standard formulation showed slight hardening at 50°C [22]. No signs of skin irritation, erythema, or adverse reactions were observed following 72 hours of application, indicating excellent dermatological safety of the formulation [23]. These results affirm the non-irritant, non-greasy, and washable nature of the carrot-based cream. The active herbal component, Daucus carota, was selected for its recognized cosmetic properties including anti-aging, anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, and skin-rejuvenating effects. This is attributed to its high content of bioactive nutrients such as beta-carotene, alpha-carotene, and vitamins A, K, B6, and C [24]. Phytochemical screening of the ethanolic extract revealed the presence of several beneficial constituents’ alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and proteins which contribute to the observed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects [25–27]. The formulation was prepared using the melt emulsification technique and passed all standard evaluation tests. The cream displayed oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion behavior, which is preferable for cosmetic use due to its non-greasy texture and ease of removal [28]. Table 1 results confirmed that the cream had a pleasant odour, smooth appearance, appropriate viscosity, and pH compatible with skin, making it highly acceptable for regular use. Overall, the prepared herbal vanishing cream showed enhanced functional and cosmetic properties. It effectively moisturizes the skin, supports anti-aging, and provides a protective, soothing barrier. Additionally, it complies with key quality parameters such as Spreadability, pH, viscosity, and stability. The cream was found to be non-irritant and well tolerated by the skin, confirming its safety profile. This study demonstrates that a carrot-based vanishing cream can be a valuable natural alternative to synthetic formulations. It combines nutritional and cosmetic benefits, making it a multifunctional skincare product. While initial findings are promising, further clinical trials and long-term stability studies are recommended to validate efficacy, safety, and consumer acceptability on a larger scale [29].

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