Peel-off Emulgel Mask Formulation from Ethanol Extract of Frankincense Resin for Acne vulgaris Treatment

Abstract

Acne vulgaris remains a prevalent skin issue with significant economic implications, primarily attributed to Propionibacterium acnes. While Frankincense resin boasts strong antibacterial properties, its potential in acne treatment, particularly in peel-off emulgel masks, is underexplored. This study aimed to find the best formula for an anti-acne peel-off emulgel mask preparation with frankincense resin and evaluate its activity against Propionibacterium acnes. Frankincense resin was extracted with 96% ethanol (1:1 w/v) by the maceration method. The simplex lattice design (SLD) method was used to determine the gel-base combination of the preparation and evaluate the most optimal preparation. Antibacterial activity tests of single extracts and preparations were performed by the well diffusion method. The physical evaluation and determination of the optimal formula using design expert software showed that formula F5 with a combination of 8% polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and 2% Carbopol 940 gel base met all test requirements and was stable for 28 days. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values of frankincense resin single extract were 30 mg/mL and 33 mg/mL, respectively. The peel-off emulgel mask preparations (1%, 5%, and 10%) gave an inhibition zone diameter of 1.91 ± 0.03 cm, 2.34 ± 0.04 cm, and 2.44 ± 0.05 cm, respectively. The optimal peel-off emulgel mask formula was achieved by combining 8% PVA and 2% Carbopol 940 as gelling agents. The strongest inhibitory activity against P. acnes was observed in the preparation containing 10% frankincense resin extract as the active ingredient.