Abstract

DEVELOPMENT AND PHARMACEUTICAL EVALUATION OF COSMETIC SERUM AND TONER INCORPORATING PINEAPPLE PEEL EXTRACT

Anbarasu M., Daniel Ruffus Y. L., Fairose M., Prem Kumar P., Rajalingam D., Narmatha K.*

Abstract

The present investigation was carried out to formulate and pharmaceutically evaluate cosmetic face serum and toner containing pineapple peel extract as a natural, value-added bioactive ingredient. Pineapple peel, an abundant agroindustrial by-product, is known to contain biologically active constituents such as bromelain, phenolic compounds, antioxidants, and organic acids, which contribute to various dermatological benefits including exfoliation, antioxidant protection, and antimicrobial activity. Pineapple peel extracts were prepared using ethanolic solvents of two different strengths (30% and 70%) by the maceration method. The obtained extracts were incorporated into cosmetic formulations to develop four face toner formulations (F1–F4) containing varying concentrations of extract and preservatives, and one face serum formulation using 30% ethanolic extract as the active component. All prepared formulations were subjected to comprehensive evaluation for physicochemical characteristics such as appearance, pH, viscosity, surface tension, spreadability, stickiness, homogeneity, and stability under different storage conditions. Safety assessment was performed through skin irritation studies, while microbial limit tests were conducted to ensure product quality. The results demonstrated that all formulations exhibited skin-friendly pH, acceptable viscosity, uniform consistency, and good spreadability. No phase separation, discoloration, or significant changes were observed during stability testing. Microbial analysis confirmed the absence of contamination, and skin irritation studies indicated that the formulations were non-irritant and safe for topical application. Among the developed products, the face serum showed enhanced spreadability and superior cosmetic acceptability. The study concludes that pineapple peel extract is a promising natural ingredient for cosmetic serum and toner formulations, offering effective skin benefits while supporting sustainable and eco-conscious product development.

Keywords: Pineapple peel extract, Cosmeceutical formulation, Bromelain, Phenolic compounds, Natural antioxidants, Agro-waste utilization.