Development of Antiacne Nanogel containing Cinnamon Bark Oil (Cinnamomum burmannii Nees ex Bl.) and Olive Oil (Olea europaea L.)

Abstract

Acne is the most common skin problem which can occur due to a bacterial infection. Cinnamon bark oil contains cinnamaldehyde and other active compounds which have antibacterial activity. Olive oil is also known to have antibacterial activity and can reduce skin irritation from cinnamon bark oil application. The nanogel system is known to be suitable for the delivery of active compounds to treat acne. This research aims to develop nanogel preparations containing cinnamon bark oil and olive oil and characterize the gels' physical properties and antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes. The antibacterial activity test of cinnamon bark oil and preparations were carried out by the diffusion method using the perforation technique. Nanogels were prepared using tween 80 as a surfactant, PEG 400 as a co-surfactant, and Viscolam as a gelling agent. The nanogels were characterized by organoleptic, pH, viscosity, spreadability, percent transmittance, globule size diameter, and stability tests. The result showed that cinnamon bark oil has antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes with a MIC value of 0.2%. Nanogel preparations containing cinnamon bark oil (2; 3; and 4%) and olive oil (2%) have good physical characteristics and stability with a clear appearance with an average globule size 129 ±17 nm; 132 ± 18 nm; and 135 ± 19 nm, respectively. Nanogel preparations have potent antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes. The antibacterial activity of the gels depends on oil concentration.