FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF A HERBAL ANTI-ACNE LOTION CONTAINING AVOCADO OIL AND CINNAMON BARK EXTRACT

Dr. V. Kalvimoorthi*, C. Jothi Lakshmi, P. Jothika, V. Kamesh, R. Karthik and R. Jose Robin

The current study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a novel herbal skin lotion incorporating avocado oil and cinnamon bark extract, aimed at providing antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium species, a primary causative agent of acne. Avocado oil was extracted via wet milling and centrifugation, while cinnamon bark extract was obtained through the decoction method. The lotion was formulated using standard emulsification techniques, combining oil and aqueous phases with appropriate stabilizers and preservatives. Evaluation of the final formulation revealed desirable physicochemical properties including a pH of 8.1, good spreadability (7.7 cm), smooth consistency, easy washability, and no signs of skin irritation. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the compatibility of all components, with no observed chemical interactions. The antimicrobial efficacy was assessed using the agar well diffusion method. The herbal lotion demonstrated a moderate zone of inhibition (12 mm) against Propionibacterium spp., as compared to ciprofloxacin (29 mm), indicating its potential as a supplementary topical antibacterial agent. The study concludes that the formulation is a promising, skin-friendly, plant-based alternative with mild antibacterial properties suitable for cosmetic and dermatological use.