ISSN print edition: 0366-6352 ISSN electronic edition: 1336-9075 Registr. No.: MK SR 9/7 Published monthly

Botanical-based lip balm for enhanced skin hydration and antioxidant defense: a green chemistry approach

Mohammad Abu Shuheil, Munthar Kadhim Abosaoda, M. M. Rekha, Subhashree Ray, Kattela Chennakesavulu, Renu Sharma, and Nadia Sarhan

Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Hourani Center for Applied Scientific Research, Al-Ahliyya Amman University, Amman, Jordan

E-mail: msarhannadia@gmail.com

Received: 9 August 2025  Accepted: 26 September 2025

Abstract:

This study reports the development and evaluation of an eco-friendly lip balm enriched with standardized botanical extracts (chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and green tea (Camellia sinensis)) targeting skin hydration and antioxidant protection. Grape seed oil, barberry powder, beeswax, glycerin, and vitamin E were incorporated to enhance moisturization and stability. Four formulations were prepared under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) conditions and assessed for physicochemical stability (pH, viscosity, color), moisturizing efficacy, antioxidant capacity (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assay), and spreadability. The formulation containing 15% total extracts (F3) demonstrated superior performance, showing a 34.6% increase in hydration, 50.5% DPPH inhibition, and a FRAP value of 116.2 µmol Trolox equivalents per gram (µmol TE/g). Patch testing on 90 volunteers confirmed excellent skin compatibility, with no signs of irritation. Comparative analysis against commercial herbal lip balms highlighted F3’s significantly higher antioxidant and hydration performance. The correlation between FRAP values and skin hydration (r = 0.91) suggests synergistic functionality of polyphenols in barrier repair and oxidative protection. These findings support the integration of green chemistry principles in high-performance dermocosmetic formulations, offering a validated and sustainable alternative for natural lip care products.

Keywords: Polyphenols; Green chemistry; Chamomile extract; Lip balm formulation; Antioxidant activity; Skin hydration

Full paper is available at www.springerlink.com.

DOI: 10.1007/s11696-025-04409-6

Chemical Papers 80 (1) 555–575 (2026)