Review on Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Face Mask

Abstract

Herbal face masks have gained significant popularity in the skincare industry due to their natural ingredients and therapeutic benefits. This review explores the formulation and evaluation of herbal face masks, focusing on key ingredients such as lemon, sandalwood powder, activated charcoal, curcumin, and gelatin. These ingredients are recognized for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and skin rejuvenating properties. The paper discusses the selection criteria for these ingredients, their individual roles in improving skin health, and the preparation methods employed to formulate effective masks. Furthermore, the evaluation of these masks is examined, highlighting physicochemical properties, skin safety, efficacy in addressing various skin concerns (such as acne, pigmentation, and aging), and stability testing. While herbal face masks offer numerous benefits, challenges such as ingredient stability and standardization must be addressed to ensure consistent quality and consumer satisfaction. This review concludes by highlighting the future prospects of herbal face masks, emphasizing innovations in formulation and growing consumer demand for natural skincare solutions.

Introduction

I. Introduction

Herbal cosmetics, rooted in traditional skincare, are gaining popularity due to the growing awareness of the risks of synthetic chemicals and the benefits of plant-based ingredients. Herbal face masks, in particular, are known for their ability to cleanse, nourish, and rejuvenate skin safely and naturally. This review focuses on:

• Ingredient selection and benefits

• Formulation techniques

• Evaluation of efficacy, safety, and stability

II. Skin Pathophysiology & Role of Masks

The skin is the body’s largest organ, comprising:

• Epidermis (barrier)

• Dermis (strength, elasticity)

• Hypodermis (insulation)

Common issues like acne, pigmentation, and aging stem from internal and external factors (e.g., UV exposure, bacteria, dehydration). Herbal masks help:

• Deliver bioactive compounds topically

• Reduce inflammation, cleanse pores

• Boost circulation and skin regeneration

III. Key Herbal Ingredients & Their Benefits

IV. Formulation of Herbal Face Masks

Formulation involves:

• Selecting ingredients based on therapeutic properties and skin compatibility

• Preparing masks in forms like gels, powders, or peel-offs

• Using natural binders like gelatin or aloe vera

• Ensuring proper dilution and synergy of ingredients (e.g., turmeric with sandalwood)

Challenges include ingredient stability (e.g., degradation, oxidation), which are managed using natural preservatives and protective packaging.

V. Evaluation Parameters

1. Physicochemical Testing: pH (ideal: 4.5–6.5), texture, viscosity

2. Skin Irritation Testing: Patch tests to detect allergic reactions

3. Efficacy Testing: Measures hydration, elasticity, wrinkle reduction, acne improvement

4. Stability Testing: Assesses product life under various conditions

5. Sensory Evaluation: Consumer feedback on fragrance, feel, drying/removal

VI. Advantages of Herbal Masks

• Natural and skin-friendly with minimal side effects

• Eco-friendly and biodegradable

• Aligned with Ayurvedic and holistic skincare traditions

• Suitable for long-term use and sustainability-conscious consumers

VII. Challenges in Formulation

• Instability of natural ingredients (oxidation, contamination)

• Standardization issues due to plant source variability

• Consumer skepticism due to lack of scientific backing for traditional claims

VIII. Future Prospects

• Use of advanced delivery systems (nanoemulsions, liposomes)

• Growth of personalized herbal skincare

• Need for clinical validation to support traditional efficacy claims and improve consumer trust

Conclusion

Herbal face masks represent a safe, effective, and eco-conscious approach to skincare. This review highlights the scientific basis of ingredient selection, preparation, evaluation parameters, and consumer benefits associated with herbal formulations. With ongoing research and advancements in natural product technology, herbal face masks are poised to become a significant component of modern skincare regimens.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Sanskruti Deokar, Nitin Gawai, Nidhi Jawalkar, Ankita Thikekar. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.