Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTI-AGING CREAM CONTAINING CLITORIA TERNATEA AND HYALURONIC ACID

R. Sundhararajan, N. B. Santha Sheela*, M. Shajith Ahamed, J. Shanmugapriya, S. D. Shiekh Asgar, K. Sifa Bathul, V. N. Mohamed Yasir Sarafath

ABSTRACT

The present study focuses on developing and evaluating an anti-ageing cream prepared with Clitoria ternatea extract and hyaluronic acid (HA), using different concentrations of cream bases to obtain an optimized formulation. Clitoria ternatea, commonly known as butterfly pea, is well known for its rich antioxidant content, especially anthocyanins. These natural compounds help protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which is one of the major contributors to premature ageing. By reducing oxidative damage, Clitoria ternatea may help maintain healthy-looking skin, improve elasticity, and support a youthful appearance. Hyaluronic acid is a naturally occurring substance in the skin that plays a vital role in maintaining hydration and elasticity. Beyond its well-known moisturizing properties, recent studies suggest that HA may also help regulate the skin microbiome — the community of beneficial microorganisms that protect and maintain skin health. HA can function as a prebiotic, supporting the growth of beneficial skin flora while discouraging harmful microbial colonization. Its ability to maintain optimal hydration and pH creates a favorable environment for balanced skin microbiota. Some modified forms of HA have even been shown to enhance antimicrobial peptide production and strengthen epithelial immunity, indirectly supporting healthier skin. Ongoing research is also exploring the combined use of HA with probiotic and postbiotic ingredients to create microbiome-friendly formulations. Such innovations are being investigated for managing common skin conditions like atopic dermatitis, acne, and rosacea. This emerging approach represents a promising direction for next-generation dermo-cosmetic products that focus not only on the skin surface but also on its living ecosystem. Herbal creams have gained significant popularity in recent years as consumers increasingly prefer natural products over synthetic chemicals for personal care. These formulations are generally perceived as safer, gentler, and beneficial for overall skin health. They are valued for their ability to nourish the skin while minimizing the risk of adverse effects. Considering the beneficial properties of Clitoria ternatea and hyaluronic acid, this study attempts to formulate a herbal anti-ageing cream incorporating both ingredients. By optimizing the concentration of cream bases and evaluating the formulation’s properties, the study aims to develop an effective and stable product. If the outcomes are positive, the prepared formulation may offer advantages over currently available marketed products in terms of safety, antioxidant potential, hydration, and overall skin health support.

Keywords: Clitoria ternatea, Hyaluronic acid, Anti-aging cream, Anti-oxidant, Tropical application.