Assessment of changes in biophysical parameters by dermocosmetic emulgel loaded with Cinnamomum tamala extract: A split-faced and placebo-controlled study.

Background: Phenolic and flavonoid compounds found in plants alleviate the photo-damaging skin conditions by playing a major role in skin rejuvenation.

Aims: The aim of the study was to explore the cosmeceutical effects of Cinnamomum tamala extract.

Objective: Recent research was aimed to quantify phenols and flavonoids in the natural extract of C tamala leaves, to develop its phyto-cosmetic emulgel and to assess effects of emulgel on healthy human skin.

Method: Phenols and flavonoids in C tamala (CT) extract were quantified by using ELISA assay. Emulgel formulation loaded with 4% C tamala (CT emulgel) was developed, and its cosmetic effects were evaluated on the cheeks of 13 healthy female test volunteers by comparing with placebo (base). Facial parameters including melanin, erythema, sebum, and visible facial pores (size and area) were studied by using Mexameter , Sebumeter , and VisioFace at regular interval for 90 days.

Results: Total phenolic content and total flavonoids content of C tamala leaves extract were found to be 73.08 ± 0.0078 mg GAE/g and 52.63 ± 0.0060 mg QE/g CT extract respectively. As compared to placebo (base), CT emulgel was found to be significantly (P ≤ .05) effective in minimizing skin photo-damaging effects by reducing the levels of melanin, erythema, and sebum and size and count of both fine and large facial pores.

Conclusion: Cinnamomum tamala leaves extract, being a rich source of phenols and flavonoids minimized the photo-damaging effects by reducing skin melanin, erythema, and excess sebum; improving the skin imperfections by reducing facial pore count and area as assessed by advanced imaging and bioengineering techniques.