Evaluation and Formulation of a Natural Antioxidant Cream Using Various Antioxidant Assays Enriched with Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hibiscus sabdariffa Extracts for Hyperpigmentation Treatment

Document Type : Research paper

Authors

1 Department of Cell Research, Field Crops Research Institute, ARC

2 Faculty of Biotechnology, October University for Modern Sciences and Arts (MSA)

3 Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Cairo University

4 Department of Microbiology, Soils, Water and Environment Research Institute, ARC

5 Genetics Dept, Fac of Agric, Ain Shams Univ

Abstract

Hyperpigmentation, a common dermatological condition marked by excessive melanin production, is often exacerbated by oxidative stress, hormonal fluctuations, and sun exposure. In response to the limitations of conventional treatments, such as hydroquinone and isotretinoin, this study investigates the formulation of a natural antioxidant cream using aqueous extracts of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and Hibiscus sabdariffa (roselle), enriched with Aloe vera and vitamin E. The extracts were evaluated for phytochemical content (phenolics, flavonoids, catechins, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid) and subjected to antioxidant assays (DPPH and KMnO₄). High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds such as chlorogenic acid, catechin, and ellagic acid. Among the tested ratios, the 1:2 ratio of Glycyrrhiza glabra to Hibiscus sabdariffa exhibited the strongest antioxidant activity in the KMnO₄ assay (99.9% inhibition), while the 1:1 ratio was most effective in the DPPH assay (98.5%). The formulated cream showed promising consistency and sensory acceptability. The findings support the synergistic potential of these extracts in neutralizing free radicals and reducing melanin biosynthesis, offering a natural, effective alternative for managing hyperpigmentation in cosmetic and therapeutic applications.

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