Physical Characteristics and Hedonic Test of Hand Cream with Eucalyptus and Sweet Orange Oil

Abstract

COVID-19 is an epidemic that is being experienced by almost all countries in the world. Several things that can be done to suppress the spread of this disease are frequent hand washing, wearing masks, maintaining distance, avoiding crowds and limiting mobility. However, this regulation also raises some problems. For example, regulations regarding social restrictions that can trigger stress. Increasing the frequencyofhandwashing can trigger handdermatitis.Based on these problems, the researchers are interested in developing aromatherapy hand cream products. This product has a dual function, which are as a hand moistur- izer and as an aromatherapy product. The purpose of this study was to analyze the physical characteristics and consumer preference level of hand cream with different essential oils, namely 1% eucalyptus oil (HCE) and 1% sweet orange oil (HCO). Parameters of physical characteristics observed included organoleptic, pH, and spreadability. The results of the organoleptic test were analyzed descrip- tively.Meanwhile, the results ofthe pHand spreadability testswere analyzed using Independent Sample T-test statistical analysis. In the hedonic test, the parameters assessed were odor, color, and texture. Hedonic test data were analyzed using Mann-Whitney statistical analysis. Based on the physical characteristic test, it was concluded that HCE and HCO have the same visual appearance and spread- ability. However, HCE andHCO have different odor and pH. Based on the hedonic test, it was concluded that the scent of HCO is preferred by the panelists than the scent of HCE.