Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF BIODEGRADABLE CURCUMIN MICROBEADS INCORPORATED FACE SCRUB

M. Ramya*, B. Swarupa, Yuvaraj Kumar Sah, Manish Kumar, Dinesh Kumar Yadav, Nand Kishor Bharti and S. Arshiya

Abstract

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a biodegradable face scrub incorporating curcumin-loaded microbeads, aimed at providing a natural, effective, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic exfoliants. Curcumin, known for its antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties, was encapsulated in sodium alginate microbeads using the ionic gelation technique with calcium chloride as the crosslinking agent. The prepared microbeads were incorporated into a gel-based scrub containing natural ingredients such as aloe vera, glycerin, and walnut shell powder. The microbeads were characterized for morphology, particle size, and encapsulation efficiency. The final scrub formulation was evaluated for pH, viscosity, spreadability, grittiness, and stability under various storage conditions. A patch test was also conducted to assess skin irritation potential. The microbeads were spherical, uniform in size, and showed high encapsulation efficiency (over 80%). The face scrub had an acceptable pH (5.8–6.2), good viscosity, and desirable spreadability. Stability studies indicated no significant changes in physical appearance or performance over four weeks. The patch test confirmed that the formulation was safe and non-irritant to the skin. Overall, the study successfully developed a skin-safe, biodegradable, and effective exfoliating face scrub that offers a sustainable alternative to conventional microplastic-based products.

Keywords: Face scrub, Curcumin microbeads and Controlled medication administration.