Management of Seborrhea and Enlarged Pore Size with a Hydrogel Containing Ficus Fistulosa Extract.

BACKGROUND

Tannins are considered an important phytochemical used in cosmetics and cosmeceuticals and are well-known for their astringent and antioxidant properties. is a plant that grows in the Southern part of Thailand. Its fruits have an astringent taste, which might correlate with the presence of tannins.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate the efficacy of a hydrogel containing extract for controlling sebum.

METHODS

First, the extract of fruit was evaluated for its tannin content and astringent activity . Then it was formulated into a hydrogel in different concentrations. After, the safety and sebum-control efficacy of this hydrogel was tested in 10 healthy volunteers. The safety of this hydrogel was evaluated in volunteers using a closed patch test.

RESULTS

The results of the first part of the study indicated that extract contained 0.0359±0.0003mg of tannic acid equivalent per gram of extract, and its astringent activity was 87.45%±1.76%. When formulated into hydrogels of different concentrations, the results showed that the hydrogel containing 0.1% w/w had the highest stability profile. No irritation or allergy was observed. Separately, after usage twice per day for 28 consecutive days, the sebum content of the volunteers was decreased by -54.36%±13.71% relative to baseline.

CONCLUSION

The results from this study suggest that fruit extract might be an effective active ingredient for use by the cosmetic and cosmeceutical industry.