FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL MELIACEAE BLEACH POWDER FOR COSMETIC APPLICATION

By Rampal Kantilal Rajput, Urmila Ravindra Patil, Hema Jaysing Pawara, Rahul B. Eshi, Dr. Vijay Patel

¹ Final Year B. Pharmacy, P.G. College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Chaupale, Tal. Dist. Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India
² Assistant Professor, P.G. College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Chaupale, Tal. Dist. Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India
³ Principal, P.G. College of Pharmaceutical Science and Research, Chaupale, Tal. Dist. Nandurbar, Maharashtra, India

Published: 2026 | DOI: 10.5281/ZENODO.20389262 | Download PDF

Abstract

The increasing consumer preference for safer and naturally derived cosmetic products has accelerated research into herbal alternatives to conventional synthetic skincare formulations. Chemical bleaching agents commonly used in cosmetic applications often produce adverse dermatological effects including irritation, dryness, erythema, hypersensitivity, and disruption of the skin barrier with prolonged use.

The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal cosmetic bleach powder using Azadirachta indica (Neem), a medicinal plant belonging to the Meliaceae family, as the principal active ingredient.

The developed formulation demonstrated acceptable physicochemical characteristics, cosmetic usability, skin compatibility, and short-term stability.

Keywords:

Herbal bleach powder, Azadirachta indica, neem, herbal cosmetics, Meliaceae, cosmetic formulation, skin care

Introduction

Cosmetic bleaching products are widely used for complexion enhancement and pigmentation reduction. Conventional synthetic bleaching products may cause irritation, dermatitis, barrier disruption, and photosensitivity.

Herbal cosmetic alternatives provide safer, multifunctional skincare benefits through antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing plant-derived bioactive compounds.

Materials and Methods

The herbal bleach powder was formulated using neem powder, multani mitti, turmeric powder, and sandalwood powder.

Herbal ingredients were dried, pulverized, sieved, and blended using geometric dilution to achieve a homogeneous powder formulation.

Evaluation Parameters

  • Organoleptic evaluation
  • pH measurement
  • Particle size distribution
  • Bulk density
  • Tapped density
  • Angle of repose
  • Moisture content
  • Washability
  • Stability studies

Results and Discussion

  • Appearance: Greenish-brown powder
  • Odor: Pleasant herbal
  • Texture: Fine and free-flowing
  • Average pH: 6.6
  • Bulk Density: 0.50 g/mL
  • Tapped Density: 0.62 g/mL
  • Angle of Repose: 33°
  • Moisture Content: 6%
  • Washability: Good
  • Stability: No significant changes observed

Neem served as the principal antimicrobial active ingredient. Multani mitti contributed cleansing and oil-absorbing properties. Turmeric provided anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, while sandalwood offered soothing and cooling effects.

Conclusion

The developed herbal Meliaceae bleach powder demonstrated acceptable physicochemical properties, cosmetic suitability, skin compatibility, and short-term stability.

The formulation represents a potentially safer herbal alternative to conventional synthetic cosmetic bleaching products.

References

  1. Joshi LS, Pawar HA. Herbal cosmetics overview.
  2. Sharma P et al. Herbal cosmetic trends.
  3. Skin physiology and cosmetic science.
  4. Herbal medicines for skin disorders.
  5. Cosmeceutical review.
  6. Neem medicinal properties.
  7. Turmeric dermatology applications.
  8. WHO herbal formulation guidelines.