Formulation of Gel Preparation Based on a Combination of Activated Palm Shell Charcoal and Tea Tree Oil as an Antibacterial for Cutibacterium Acnes

Acne (acne vulgaris) is a common skin problem caused by clogged pores and the growth of Cutibacterium acnes. The use of chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide and azelaic acid often causes side effects such as irritation and dry skin, so a safer and more effective natural alternative is needed. This study aims to develop a peel-off gel mask preparation containing a combination of activated charcoal from palm kernel shells and tea tree oil as a natural antibacterial against Cutibacterium acnes. Activated charcoal was obtained through a carbonization process at 350°C for 2 hours and sieved through 200 mesh, while tea tree oil was analyzed using GC–MS to determine the main content of terpinen-4-ol. Gel formulations were made with varying concentrations of tea tree oil (0.1–0.4%) and tested for physical properties, stability, pH, homogeneity, absorption, and antibacterial activity using the disk diffusion method. The results showed that the formula with a concentration of 0.4% tea tree oil had a pH of 6.17, a viscosity of 10,000 cps, a drying time of 18.6 minutes, an iodine absorption capacity of 786.78 mg/g, and the largest inhibition zone of ±11 mm against Cutibacterium acnes without causing irritation. Based on these results, the combination of activated charcoal from palm shells and tea tree oil is effective as a natural active ingredient for a safe anti-acne peel-off gel mask preparation.