Development, in-vitro characterization and assessment of cosmetic potential of Beta vulgaris extract emulsion

Abstract

Emulsions are biphasic delivery systems used in cosmetics and the pharmaceutical industry. The aim of the study was to formulate a stable water in oil (w/o) emulsion containing 4% (w/w) extract of Beta vulgaris leaves. Ethanol (80 %) was used for maceration of the leaves. Antioxidant activity of Beta vulgaris leaves’ extract was measured by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. The emulsion was prepared by using cetyl dimethicone copolyol, liquid paraffin and bees wax. The test and placebo emulsions were prepared by the same procedure using leaves’ extract and ethanol 80 %, respectively. In In-vitro evaluation, stability tests (color, liquefaction, phase separation, pH and microscopy) were carried out for both placebo and test formulations at different storage conditions, 8 °C, 25 °C, 40 °C and 40 °C + 75 % RH for a period of 72 days. Sun protection factors of both the formulations were determined at different concentrations by spectrophotometry. Phytochemical analysis of Beta vulgaris extract was also recorded. The pH and microscopy data of both the formulations were statistically evaluated by two way ANOVA (LSD test) at 5% level of significance and paired sample t-test. The test formulation proved to be stable in all aspects with an antioxidant activity of 89.7 %. It was concluded that Beta vulgaris has antioxidant and sun protection properties and a stable emulsion containing 4% Beta vulgaris leaves’ extract can be used as topical anti-aging formulation.