Develop and Evaluate A Novel Herbal Formulation with Anti-Acne, Anti-Inflammatory, and Antibacterial Properties Using Nanotechnology for Effective Treatment of Skin Disorders

Read full text
Authors: Sachin Gholve*1, Keshavrao Kulkarni2, Sonali Bhagat3, Kshitija Deshmukh2
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Acne vulgaris and other skin disorders are highly common dermatological problems that arise due to a combination of factors such as bacterial infection, inflammation of the skin, and excessive secretion of sebum. Although conventional treatment options like topical antibiotics and retinoids are widely used, their long-term application is often associated with several drawbacks, including skin irritation, development of bacterial resistance, and reduced patient adherence to therapy. Because of these limitations, there has been growing interest in the use of herbal medicines, which are generally considered safer and exhibit multiple therapeutic actions. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of herbal formulations is frequently compromised by poor solubility, inadequate penetration through the skin barrier, and instability of their active constituents. The objective of the present research is to design and evaluate a novel herbal formulation using nanotechnology for the efficient treatment of acne and related inflammatory skin conditions. The formulation is intended to exhibit anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. Medicinal plant extracts containing biologically active compounds such as flavonoids, phenolic substances, and terpenoids were selected and incorporated into a nanocarrier system, including nanoemulsions or herbal nanoparticles. This approach was adopted to enhance skin permeation, improve stability, and increase the bioavailability of the herbal actives. The prepared nanoformulation was systematically characterized for parameters such as particle size, zeta potential, drug entrapment efficiency, surface morphology, and physicochemical stability. The antibacterial efficacy of the formulation was assessed through in vitro studies against microorganisms commonly implicated in acne. Its anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using established biochemical and cell-based experimental models. Additionally, the anti-acne potential was examined by studying sebum inhibition, antioxidant capacity, and in vitro skin permeation behavior. Safety and tolerability of the formulation were confirmed through skin irritation and compatibility studies. Overall, the developed herbal nanoformulation exhibited improved antibacterial activity, marked anti-inflammatory effects, enhanced skin penetration, and better stability when compared with conventional herbal formulations. These findings suggest that nanotechnology-based herbal delivery systems offer a promising, safe, and effective therapeutic strategy for managing acne and inflammatory skin disorders, and may serve as a viable alternative to conventional synthetic treatments.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Advancements in Transdermal Drug Delivery Acne and Rosacea Treatments and Effects Pharmacology and Nanomedicine Research

Publication details

Journal / source
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
Publication date
11 February 2026
Language
EN