Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Pimple and Acne Patch for Clear Skin

What is acne?

The word acne comes from the word acme, meaning "the highest point", which is derived from the Greek word akme, meaning "point" or "spot". It was originally misspelt, with an 'n' rather than an 'm in 1835. Acne, medically known as Acne vulgaris, is a skin disease that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles. It commonly occurs during puberty when the sebaceous (oil) glands come to life and are stimulated by male hormones produced by the adrenal glands of both males and females^.

Fig No.1: Acne

Types of acne:

1. Acne Conglobate

2. Acne Vulgaris:

3. Acne Mechanical

Causes:

• Excess Oil Production: Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much oil (sebum), which can clog pores and lead to acne.
• Clogged Pores: Dead skin cells, oil, and other debris can block hair follicles, creating an environment where bacteria can grow.
• Bacteria: Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is a bacterium that thrives in clogged pores and causes inflammation.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions can increase oil production, leading to acne.
• Diet: Diets high in refined sugars, dairy, and processed foods may trigger acne in some individuals.
• Stress: Stress can trigger the release of hormones like cortisol, which increases oil production and worsens acne.

Treatment:

1. Over-the-Counter Treatments:
   • Benzoyl Peroxide: Reduces bacteria and inflammation.
   • Salicylic Acid: Unclogs pores and reduces swelling.
   • Topical Retinoids: Unclog pores and prevent new acne.
2. Prescription Medications:
   • Topical/Oral Antibiotics: Reduce bacteria and inflammation.
   • Oral Isotretinoin (Accutane): For severe acne; reduces oil production.
3. Procedures:
   • Chemical Peels: Exfoliate skin and prevent clogged pores.
   • Laser Therapy: Targets bacteria and reduces oil production.
4. Lifestyle Changes
   • Gentle Skincare: Use non-comedogenic products and cleanse twice a day.
   • Diet and Stress Management: Reduce sugar and dairy, manage stress.
5. Alternative Remedies
   • Tea Tree Oil: Antibacterial.
   • Zinc Supplements: Reduces inflammation.

What is a Pimple?

A pimple is a small, raised bump on the skin that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and sometimes bacteria. Pimples are a common skin condition associated with acne and are most often found on the face, back, chest, and shoulders.² Acne vulgaris, or simply known as acne, is a human skin ailment characterized by skin with scaly red pores and skin (seborrhoea), blackheads and whiteheads (comedones), pinheads (papules), large papules (nodules), zits and scarring. Acne influences skin by having dense sebaceous follicles in areas together as the face, chest and back. Acne might also be of inflammatory or non-inflammatory forms. In both males and females. Acne reduces over time and tends to disappear over time.

Fig No.2: Pimple

Types of Pimples:

1. Whiteheads: Small, flesh-coloured or white bumps that form when a clogged pore is closed.
2. Blackheads: Small, dark-coloured bumps caused by clogged pores that are open to the air.
3. Papules: Small, red bumps caused by inflammation.
4. Pustules: Pimples filled with pus and a red base.
5. Nodules: Large, painful lumps that are deeply embedded in the skin.
6. Cysts: Large, painful, pus-filled bumps beneath the surface of the skin, which can lead to scarring.^3,4

Causes of Pimples:

• Excessive oil production: Overactive sebaceous (oil) glands can contribute to clogged pores.
• Hormonal changes: Particularly during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy, hormones can increase oil production.
• Bacterial infection: Propionibacterium acnes is the bacterium that causes infection in clogged pores.
• Diet and lifestyle: Diets high in refined sugars and dairy, along with stress, can exacerbate acne.
• Poor skincare habits: Not properly cleansing the skin can lead to clogged pores.

Treatment:

• Over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and topical retinoids.
• Prescription medications such as oral antibiotics or topical treatments like retinoids and hormone therapy.^5,6
• Proper skincare routines, including gentle cleansing and avoiding touching the face too much.

What are pimple and acne patches?

Fig No.3: Herbal Pimple Patch

Pimple patches, also known as acne patches or blemish patches, are small, adhesive.

Polymer³:

The word "polymer" means "many parts" (from the Greek poly, meaning "many," and Mero, meaning "parts"). Polymers are giant molecules with molar masses ranging from thousands to millions. Approximately 80 percent of the organic chemical industry is devoted to the production of synthetic polymers, such as plastics, textiles fibres, and synthetic rubbers.

Types of Polymers:

1. Natural Polymers
2. Synthetic Polymers

Polymer:

• Gelatin

Herbal ingredients:

• Banana peel extract
• Green tea powder
• Turmeric
• Aloe vera gel
• Flaxseed gel

Gelatin^:4

Hydrocolloid-based patches are more commonly used for pimple treatment due to their superior moisture-absorbing properties, but Gelatin may be considered for its skin-friendly qualities in some formulations.         

Fig No.4: Gelatin

Banana peel extract:⁵

Banana peel extract has garnered attention for its potential medicinal properties, and research suggests that it may offer a range of beneficial effects. The drug profile of banana peel extract includes its chemical composition, pharmacological effects, and potential therapeutic uses.

Fig No.5: Banana Peel Extract

Green tea powder, most commonly known as matcha, is a powdered form of green tea made from finely ground young green tea leaves. It has a variety of bioactive compounds that are believed to have health benefits. Here's an overview of the drug profile for green tea powder.

Fig No.6: Green Tea Powder

Turmeric^:7

• Common Name: Turmeric
• Scientific Name: Curcuma longa
• Active Compound: Curcumin
• Family: Zingiberoside
• Formulations: Capsules, tablets, powders, creams, oils, and extracts.

Fig No.7: Turmeric

Aloe vera gel^:8

• Polysaccharides (e.g., ace Mannan): These are the primary bioactive compounds in Aloe vera that contribute to its moisturizing, healing, and immunomodulatory effects.
• Anthraquinones (e.g., aloin and barbaloin): These compounds possess laxative properties and have been used to treat constipation in some cases. They are primarily found in the outer leaf skin but are removed in processed gel.

Fig No.8: Aloe Vera Gel

Flax seed gel:⁹

Flaxseed gel is derived from flaxseeds (Linum usitatissimum), which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, lignans, and other bioactive compounds. Flaxseed gel is often used in the form of a topical application or as a component in natural skincare products due to its moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. When prepared, the gel is typically extracted from the mucilage of flaxseeds, a gel-like substance that forms when flaxseeds are soaked in water^.

Fig No.9: Flax Seed Gel

List of ingredients:

• Gelatin                       2, 3 Gelatin Sheets
• Green Tea Paste        1 Tablespoon
• Turmeric Paste           1 Tablespoon
• Banana Pel Extract     1 Tablespoon
• Flaxseed Gel               1 Tablespoon
• Aloe Vera Gel             1 Tablespoon

Fig No.10: List Of Ingredients

Equipment:

• A small bowl for mixing ingredients
• A small pot to dissolve Gelatin
• Spoon or whisk for stirring
• A clean surface (parchment paper or a non-stick mat)
• Scissors for cutting the patches
• A small brush or spatula for applying

METHODLOGY:

Step-by-Step Formulation Procedure:

1. Prepare the Gelatin Sheets:

• Soften 2-3 Gelatin sheets in cold water for about 5 minutes.
• After the sheets have softened, place them in a small pot and heat gently over low heat to dissolve the Gelatin. Stir continuously to ensure there are no lumps.
• You want a smooth, liquid consistency once the Gelatin is fully dissolved. Remove from heat and allow it to cool slightly (but not too much, as it should still be liquid)

2. Prepare the Green Tea Paste:

• In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of green tea powder with 1-2 teaspoons of warm water to form a smooth paste. Stir well and set aside.

3. Prepare the Turmeric Paste:

• Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 1-2 teaspoons of warm water to create a smooth paste. Stir well and set aside.

4. Prepare the Banana Peel Extract:

• If using the fresh banana peel, blend the peel in a blender and strain it to extract the liquid. You can use about 1 tablespoon of this extract.
• Alternatively, if you have powdered banana peel extract, use 1 tablespoon.

5. Prepare the Flaxseed Gel:

• Flaxseed gel can be made by mixing 1 tablespoon of flaxseed with 1/4 cup of water and heating it on low until it thickens into a gel-like consistency. Let it cool, and then use 1 tablespoon of the gel in the formulation.

Fig No.11: Flax Seed Gel

6. Combine the Ingredients:

• Once the Gelatin is slightly cooled (but still liquid), add the following to the Gelatin mixture:
  • 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel
  • 1 tablespoon of banana peel extract
  • 1 teaspoon of green tea paste
  • 1 teaspoon of turmeric paste
  • 1 tablespoon of flaxseed gel
• Stir everything together thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

Fig No.12: Mixed Ingredients

7. Prepare the Patch Base (Rice Paper or Silicone Sheet):

• Lay a sheet of parchment paper or a silicone baking mat on a flat surface to prevent sticking.
• If you have rice paper, soak it in warm water for a few seconds to soften it. This can be used as an alternative patch base, but it will be more flexible than Gelatin.

8. Apply the Mixture to the Patch Base:

• Using a brush or spatula, spread the Gelatin mixture evenly on the parchment paper or silicone mat, creating a thin, smooth layer. Ensure that it’s about the size of the pimple or slightly larger for better coverage.

Fig No..12: Sample Placed On Silicon Mold

9. Let the Mixture Set and Dry:

• Allow the Gelatin mixture to set and dry at room temperature. This can take several hours or overnight.
• If needed, you can speed up the process by placing it in the refrigerator, but ensure it doesn't get too cold, as it could harden too quickly.