Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Hair Serum for Prevention of Premature Hair Greying

Premature hair greying is a common cosmetic and psychological concern associated with oxidative stress, melanocyte dysfunction, and reduced melanin synthesis. The present study aimed to formulate and evaluate a herbal hair serum containing Phyllanthus emblica (Amla), Murraya koenigii (Curry Leaves), Eclipta alba (Bhringraj), and Mangifera indica (Mango Seed) in a sesame oil base. Herbal extracts were prepared using a double-boiler extraction technique and incorporated into an oil-based serum. The formulation was evaluated for phytochemical constituents, physicochemical properties, pH, viscosity, spreadability, skin irritation potential, microbial load, acid value, peroxide value, UV spectroscopic profile, and antioxidant activity. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, and saponins. The optimized formulation exhibited acceptable pH (5.7), viscosity (1000 cps), good spreadability, absence of skin irritation, acceptable microbial limits (≤1×10³ CFU/mL), acid value of 2.24 mg KOH/g, and peroxide value of 8 meq O₂/kg oil. DPPH antioxidant assay demonstrated concentration-dependent free radical scavenging activity with an IC50 value of 58.3 µg/mL. The findings suggest that the developed herbal hair serum possesses promising antioxidant and scalp-protective properties that may contribute to delaying premature hair greying.