Formulation And Evaluation of Herbal Eye Patches for Under-Eye Hydration and Dark Circle Reduction

What are dark circles?¹

A dark circle under the eyes is a common beauty problem. These under-eye dark circles give us an appearance of tiredness or illness. They make us feel worse and are rather detrimental to our self-esteem. Human eyes are referred to as "Windows of our Soul." The skin under the eyes is very thin and blood passing through the big veins has a bluish tinge. When the skin around the eyes becomes too thin, it produces dark circles. Alternatively, when the melanin produced around the eyes is higher than usual, it gives them a darker color. Dark circles under your eyes usually are not a sign of a medical problem. Dark under-eye circles, also known as Peri-orbital dark circles, tend to develop due to a combination of factors, some of which are inevitable, some of which can be merged. Dark circles are a relatively prevalent condition that affects people of all ages under or around the eyes. It's also known as a darkening of the skin around or under both eyes that is uniform and circular. Infra-orbital dark circles can be caused by excessive pigmentation, shadows from bags under the eyes, infra-orbital fat prolapsed, shadows from infra-orbital sagging and wrinkles, and thin, translucent skin over the Orbicularis oculi muscle. It occurs because of deficiencies of vitamins B12, E, K, and D. Dark circles can form under the eyes from stress or lack of sleep. These are typically most noticeable near the inner corner of the eyes and then spread under the eye, towards the outer corner.

Causes of dark circles.¹

1. Genetics are involved in the causation of dark circles as they may be a hereditary condition.

2. Aging is also a causative factor; since the skin loses its elasticity and thins out with age, the blood vessels beneath the eyes become more visible, giving it a darker look.

3. Dark circles can be caused by allergies through inflammation and irritation of the nose and eyes. This can result in blood flowing more to the area, thereby making dark circles more visible.

4. Poor sleep and dehydration can lead to dark circles. The body is affected when not well rested, and low hydration levels can deflate the skin and make it darker.

5. Exposure to sunlight can also add to dark circles because destructive UV rays can harm the skin, darkening it and making it more visible.

6. Smoking and stress also lead to dark circles because of the free radicals and toxins released in the body.

Fig.1.1. Dark Circles and Dryness

What are Eye patches? ^2-3

• Eye patches are popular skincare treatments designed for the delicate skin around the eyes.
• These patches are usually infused with various ingredients that target common concerns such as dark circles, puffiness, and dryness.
• Below is an overview of how eye patches work and their effectiveness in reducing dark circles and providing hydration.
• Under-eye patches are designed for hydration, brightening, anti-aging, de-puffing, and overall skin nourishment.
• These patches are typically infused with active ingredients that offer therapeutic and cosmetic benefits.

Types Of Under-Eye Patches

1. Hydrogel Eye Patches: -⁴

• Hydrogel eye patches are made from a hydrophilic polymer matrix that holds a significant amount of water and active ingredients.
• These patches are flexible, and gel-like, and adhere well to the under-eye area, ensuring prolonged contact and absorption.
• The primary ingredients often include hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and collagen.
• They are highly effective for intense hydration, reducing puffiness, and providing a cooling effect that soothes tired eyes.

2. Bio-Cellulose Eye Patches: - ⁵

• Bio-cellulose eye patches are made from natural fibers obtained through microbial fermentation.
• They possess a thin, breathable, and flexible structure that conforms perfectly to the skin's contours.
• These patches have excellent moisture retention capabilities and are commonly infused with ingredients like aloe vera, vitamin C, and green tea extract.
• Bio-cellulose patches provide superior adherence and ensure that the active ingredients penetrate deeply into the epidermis.

3. Cotton or Fabric-Based Eye Patches: -⁶

• These eye patches are made from soft, absorbent fabric materials like cotton or non-woven fabric, soaked in serums or essences containing ingredients like caffeine, hyaluronic acid, and botanical extracts.
• These patches are lightweight and breathable, providing mild hydration and cooling effects. They are often disposable and convenient for travel and quick use.

4. Gelatin -Based Molded Patches: -⁷

• Gelatin-based Molded eye patches are formulated using gelatin, collagen, and moisturizing agents.
• They are particularly effective in delivering firming and lifting effects while also hydrating the skin. Gelatin acts as a natural film-forming agent, enhancing skin elasticity.

5. Microneedle Eye Patches: - ⁸

• Microneedle eye patches consist of tiny, dissolvable needles made from hyaluronic acid or peptides that penetrate the outer layer of the skin.
• These microneedles create micro-channels that enhance the delivery of active ingredients like retinol, peptides, and antioxidants.
• They are particularly beneficial for targeting dark circles, fine lines, and under-eye pigmentation.

Need & Objective

Aim: - To develop and evaluate an herbal eye patch for reducing dark circles and improving under-eye hydration, using natural ingredients.

• Deliver Active Ingredients Effectively
• Offer Multifunctional Benefits
• Reduce the Risk of Side Effects
• Target-Specific Concerns with Customizable Formulations

Objectives Of the Study

The primary objective of this research is to develop and evaluate an herbal eye patch formulation aimed at reducing dark circles and improving hydration. The study intends to achieve the following specific objectives:

• Formulation and Development of Herbal Eye Patch
• Physicochemical and Stability Evaluation
• Safety and Toxicity Evaluation
• Comparative Analysis with Commercial Products

Polymer:⁹

A polymer is a large molecule (macromolecule) composed of repeating structural units (monomers) bonded together through covalent bonds. Polymers can be natural or synthetic and have diverse applications in various fields, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, textiles, and more.

Applications in Eye Patches:

Polymers are extensively used in the formulation of eye patches to provide structure, adhesion, and hydration. Some of their primary functions include:

• Film-Forming Agents: Create a smooth and elastic layer that adheres well to the skin.
• Hydrogel Formation: Polymers like gelatin and PVA form hydrogels that maintain moisture around the eyes.
• Bio adhesive Properties: Natural polymers like chitosan help the patch adhere to the skin effectively.
• Moisturizing and Hydrating: Polymers such as gelatin help retain moisture and keep the skin hydrated.

METHODOLOGY

Ingredients Used in the Formulation:

Methodology for Preparing Cotton Pad Eye Patches

Materials Required:

• Potato peel (fresh)
• Licorice root powder or extract
• Aloe vera gel
• Rosewater
• Glycerine
• Cotton pads
• Blender
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Sterile container
• Measuring equipment (spoons, cups)
• Clean gloves
• Sterile packaging material

Procedure:

• Preparation of Potato Peel Extract:

1. Collect fresh potato peels and wash them thoroughly to remove dirt and impurities.
2. Blend the peels with a small amount of rose water to facilitate blending.
3. Strain the mixture using a fine cloth or strainer to obtain a smooth liquid extract. Collect the filtrate in a sterile container and set it aside.

Preparation of Licorice Extract:

1. Dissolve licorice root powder or extract in rose water and stir well to form a uniform solution.
2. Strain to remove any undissolved particles and keep the clear solution aside

Formulation of the Eye Patch Solution:

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

1. Potato peel extract: 20 ml
2. Licorice extract: 10 ml
3. Aloe vera gel: 15 ml
4. Rose water: 10 ml
5. Glycerin: 5 ml

Mix thoroughly to obtain a homogenous solution.

Fig.6.5. Mixing Ingredients

• Soaking the Cotton Pads:
  1. Immerse the sterile cotton pads in the prepared solution, ensuring they are fully saturated.
  2. Gently squeeze out excess liquid, leaving the pads adequately moist.

Packaging and Storage:

1. 1. 1. Place the soaked cotton pads in an air-tight sterile container.
      2. Store the container in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended shelf life.

Fig.6.8. Trial Batch(F1)

Table 6.2. Batches and Quantity

Methodology for Preparing Molded Gelatin Eye Patches

Materials Required:

• Potato peel (fresh)
• Licorice root powder or extract
• Aloe vera gel
• Rosewater
• glycerin
• Gelatin powder (unflavored)
• Blender
• Strainer
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring equipment (spoons, cups)
• Heat-resistant bowl
• Molds (eye patch-shaped silicone molds)
• Clean gloves
• Sterile packaging material

Procedure:

Step 1: Preparation of Potato Peel Extract

Step 2: Preparation of Licorice Extract

Step 3: Preparation of Gelatin Base

• Weighed 5 grams of unflavored gelatin powder and transferred it to a heat-resistant bowl.
• Added 20 ml of rose water to the gelatin and stir continuously to dissolve completely, forming a smooth and lump-free mixture.

Fig.6.10. Gelatin Base

Step 4: Formulation of Eye Patch Solution

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:

1. 1. Potato peel extract: 20 ml
   2. Licorice extract: 10 ml
   3. Aloe vera gel: 15 ml
   4. Glycerine: 5 ml
   5. Gelatin solution: 20 ml

Mixed thoroughly to obtain a homogeneous solution with a slightly viscous consistency.

Step 5: Molding and Setting

• Pour the prepared solution into silicone Molds.
• Allowed the Molds to set at room temperature for 30 minutes, then refrigerate for 2 hours to solidify completely.

Fig.6.11. The solution into silicone Molds

• Carefully remove the solidified eye patches from the molds.
• Transferred the patches to sterile, air-tight containers or individually wrapped pouches.
• Stored the patches in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and stability.

Fig.6.12. Molded Eye patch