FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF XANTHAN GUM BASED SALICYLIC ACID EMULGEL FOR ENHANCED ACNE TREATMENT.

Emulgel has emerged as a promising topical delivery system due to its dual release control system, incorporating both gel and emulsion properties. The topical application of drugs offers advantages such as targeted delivery to the site of action and extended drug release, ensuring localized therapeutic effects. Salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) is widely known for its effectiveness in treating acne by exfoliating the skin, unclogging pores, and reducing sebum production. This study aimed to develop an emulgel formulation of salicylic acid using xanthan gum as a gelling agent for acne treatment. Light liquid paraffin was used as the oil phase, with Tween 80 and Span 80 as emulsifiers, and propylene glycol as a co-surfactant. The prepared emulgel formulations were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, viscosity, spreadability, swelling index and antibacterial activity. All formulations demonstrated acceptable physical properties, including homogeneity, consistency, spreadability, viscosity and pH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]