Main Article Content
Abstract
Hyperpigmentation is a common dermatological condition characterized by excessive melanin production, leading to uneven skin tone and aesthetic concerns. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal face serum incorporating Nelumbo nucifera extract for the management of hyperpigmentation, utilizing its antioxidant, anti-melanogenic, and skin-protective properties. Fresh leaves of Nelumbo nucifera were collected, authenticated, and subjected to physicochemical evaluation, followed by extraction using 70% ethanol in a Soxhlet apparatus. Preliminary phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of bioactive constituents such as flavonoids, phenolics, alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, and steroids. Quantitative analysis revealed a high total phenolic content (220.9 ± 0.83 µg GAE/mg), indicating strong antioxidant potential. The herbal face serum was formulated using suitable excipients including aloe vera gel, glycerine, xanthan gum, vitamin E acetate, and rose water. The formulation was evaluated for physicochemical parameters such as appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, homogeneity, refractive index, and stability, all of which were found to be within acceptable limits. The serum exhibited a skin-compatible pH (6.1 ± 0.05), good spreadability, and non-greasy texture, indicating high cosmetic acceptability. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH free radical–scavenging assay. The extract showed significant activity (79.3 ± 0.7% inhibition at 100 µg/mL), while the formulated serum demonstrated comparable activity (73.8 ± 0.9%), confirming retention of bioactivity after formulation. Overall, the study demonstrates that Nelumbo nucifera extract can be effectively incorporated into a stable and cosmetically acceptable herbal face serum with significant antioxidant activity. The formulation shows promising potential as a safe, natural alternative for the management of hyperpigmentation and warrants further clinical evaluation.