Formulation, Physicochemical Characterization, and Stability Assessment of a Moringa oleifera Leaf Extract Serum Gel

Abstract

Moringa oleifera leaves have attracted considerable interest as a natural source of bioactive compounds for cosmetic applications because of their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a gel serum containing M. oleifera leaf extract as a natural skincare formulation with desirable physicochemical properties and storage stability. The leaves were extracted by maceration using 96% ethanol, and the resulting extract was subjected to qualitative phytochemical screening before incorporation into a gel serum formulation containing glycerin, butylene glycol, hyaluronic acid, and niacinamide. The formulated gel serum was evaluated for its organoleptic characteristics, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, and physical stability under storage at 25°C and 40°C for one month. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids, steroids, tannins, and saponins, whereas alkaloids were not detected. The developed gel serum exhibited a homogeneous appearance, a skin-compatible pH of 5.35, and viscosities of 420 and 303 mPa·s at 30 and 60 rpm, respectively, while maintaining good physical stability under both storage conditions. These findings suggest that M. oleifera leaf extract is a promising natural bioactive ingredient for stable and multifunctional serum formulations and warrants further investigation regarding long-term stability, skin compatibility, and clinical efficacy.