DEVELOPMENT AND QUALITY CONTROL OF MEDICATED SOAP TO TREAT ACNE AND HYPERPIGMENTATION

Abstract

Background: Acne vulgaris and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are common dermatological conditions that frequently coexist and negatively affect quality of life. Conventional management often requires the use of multiple topical products, which may reduce adherence, particularly in resource-limited settings. Soap-based formulations represent a widely accepted and practical dosage form for daily skin care, yet most commercially available medicated soaps target acne or pigmentation individually rather than both conditions concurrently.

Objective: To formulate and evaluate a combined medicated beauty soap incorporating benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, and licorice extract for the simultaneous management of acne and hyperpigmentation.

Methods: A laboratory-based formulation study was conducted using a melt-and-pour soap base integrated with benzoyl peroxide (5%), adapalene (0.1%), and licorice extract (2%), along with suitable surfactants, emollients, and stabilizing excipients. The formulation was subjected to comprehensive quality control testing, including acid value, moisture content, pH, foaming ability, glycerin content, saponification value, dissolution rate, total fatty matter, oil leaching, microbiological quality, and skin sensitivity assessment. Preformulation studies were also performed to evaluate physicochemical properties and compatibility of active pharmaceutical ingredients.

Results: The medicated soap demonstrated acceptable physicochemical characteristics, including appropriate pH, low free fatty acid content, satisfactory moisture levels, stable foaming behavior, and adequate total fatty matter. Functional testing indicated controlled dissolution and good bar integrity, while skin sensitivity testing revealed no signs of irritation. Microbiological evaluation confirmed compliance with acceptable limits for topical non-sterile products.

Conclusion: The findings indicated that a combined medicated beauty soap containing benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, and licorice extract can be successfully formulated with satisfactory quality and safety attributes. This formulation offers a practical adjunctive approach for acne and hyperpigmentation management and provides a foundation for further clinical evaluation.