Abstract

A REVIEW ON FOOT CARE BALM STICK

Anusree M. S.*, Shijina Shahul, Aardhra N. A., Smitharaj R. S.

Abstract

Foot care is essential for maintaining healthy skin because the feet are continuously exposed to friction, pressure, dryness and environmental conditions. Foot xerosis, roughness and cracked heels are common problems that may cause discomfort and compromise the protective skin barrier. Moisturizers containing humectants, emollients and occlusive agents are commonly used to improve skin hydration and reduce dryness. Herbal ingredients have attracted increasing interest in topical preparations because of their potential antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and skin-conditioning properties. A balm stick provides a convenient and localized method of applying moisturizing and herbal ingredients to dry areas of the feet. This review discusses balm-stick formulation principles, herbal ingreedients, preparation methods and evaluation parameters. It also highlights the need for further standardized studies concerning stability, safety and efficacy of herbal foot-care balm sticks.

Keywords: Foot care; Balm stick; Moisturizers.