International Research Journal of Engineering and Technology (IRJET)
e-ISSN: 2395-0056
Volume: 13 Issue: 01 | Jan 2026
p-ISSN: 2395-0072
www.irjet.net
“FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL HYDROGEL FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACNE” A. Vasanthan1*, A. Ameena2, M. Archana3, S. Archana4 1 Associate Professor, Sri Vijay Vidyalaya College of Pharmacy, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (India) 2, 3, 4 B. Pharm, Students, Sri Vijay Vidyalaya College of Pharmacy, Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu (India)
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Abstract-Aim: The present study aimed to develop and evaluate an herbal hydrogel formulation for the management of acne vulgaris. Objectives: The objectives of this research were to identify herbal ingredients possessing anti-acne properties, to prepare a stable herbal hydrogel using a suitable gelling agent, and to assess the formulation for its physicochemical characteristics, antimicrobial efficacy, and potential for skin irritation. Conclusion: In this study, a herbal hydrogel formulation for acne treatment was successfully developed and evaluated. The formulated hydrogel showed desirable physicochemical properties, appropriate pH for skin application, good spread ability, and satisfactory stability. The formulation exhibited notable antibacterial activity against acne-associated microorganisms and was found to be non-irritant to the skin, confirming its suitability for topical use. Overall, the findings suggest that the developed herbal hydrogel is a safe, effective, and promising alternative to conventional synthetic anti-acne products. Keywords: Herbal hydrogel; Acne vulgaris; Herbal formulation; Antimicrobial activity; Topical drug delivery
Introduction Acne vulgaris is a widespread chronic inflammatory condition affecting the pilosebaceous units of the skin and is most commonly observed during adolescence and early adulthood, although it may continue into later life. Clinically, acne presents as come dones, papules, pustules, nodules, and, in severe cases, cystic lesions that may result in permanent scarring. The development of acne is complex and involves multiple contributing factors, including increased sebum secretion, abnormal follicular keratinization, proliferation of Cut ibacterium acnes, and associated inflammatory processes. While not a life-threatening disorder, acne can have a profound negative effect on an individual’s psychological well-being, often leading to emotional distress, diminished self-confidence, and social anxiety. Current acne management strategies primarily rely on topical and systemic treatments such as antibiotics, retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, and hormonal therapies. Although these conventional therapies are effective, their long-term use is frequently limited by undesirable side effects including skin dryness, irritation, erythema, photosensitivity, and the increasing concern of antimicrobial resistance. These drawbacks have driven the search for safer and more sustainable treatment alternatives. Herbal medicines have gained considerable attention due to their broad spectrum of pharmacological activities, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing effects, which are beneficial in acne treatment. In recent years, hydrogels have been widely explored as topical drug delivery systems because of their high water content, biocompatibility, non-greasy nature, and ability to provide controlled drug release while maintaining skin hydration. Incorporating herbal extracts into hydrogel systems can further enhance therapeutic effectiveness, improve patient acceptability, and reduce adverse reactions. The present study aims to formulate and evaluate a herbal hydrogel for acne treatment by integrating selected herbal ingredients with a suitable hydrogel base. The formulation is assessed through various physicochemical and biological evaluation parameters to determine its stability, safety, and therapeutic potential, thereby highlighting its suitability as an alternative approach to conventional anti-acne therapies.
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