Creams: A Review on Classification, Preparation Methods, Evaluation and its Applications

Abstract

Creams are considered an important part of cosmetic product as topical preparations from time immemorial due to their ease of application to the skin and also their removal. From cosmetic purposes, Pharmaceutical creams have a variety of applications such as cleansing, beautifying, altering appearance, moisturizing etc. to skin protection against bacterial, fungal infections as well as healing cuts, burns, wounds on the skin. These semi solid preparations are safe to use by the public and society. The human skin is easily vulnerable to injury but it has the capability to heal on its own. However, the natural healing process can take time and there is also risk of infection especially in the early stages of injury. In such cases, medicated creams can be applied to the site of injury to speed up the healing process as well as protect the wound from infection. In this review, we have focused on the use of topical drug delivery system i.e. pharmaceutical creams for wound healing with detailed discussion relating to the wound healing process, suitable methods of preparation of creams, their classification based on their function, their advantages and disadvantages, characteristics and the various types of creams, ingredients used in the formulation of creams and their various evaluation parameters. Keywords: Creams, Skin, Topical drug delivery system, Wound healing

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Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [281] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
Available online on 15.10.2020 at http://jddtonline.info
Journal of Drug Delivery and Therapeutics
Open Access to Pharmaceutical and Medical Research
© 2011-18, publisher and licensee JDDT, This is an Open Access article which permits
unrestricted non-commercial use, provided the original work is properly cited
Open Access Review Article
Creams: A Review on Classification, Preparation Methods, Evaluation and its
Applications
Chauhan Lalita *, Gupta Shalini
School of Pharmacy and Emerging Sciences, Baddi University of Emerging Sciences and Technology, Village Makhnumajra Baddi Dis trict Solan,
Tehsil Nalagarh, H.P-173205
ABSTRACT
Creams are considered an important part of cosmetic product as topical preparations from time immemorial due to their ease of application to
the skin and also their removal. From cosmetic purposes, Pharmaceutical creams have a variety of applications such as cleansing, beautifying,
altering appearance, moisturizing etc. to skin protection against bacterial, fungal infections as well as healing cuts, burns, wounds on the skin.
These semi solid preparations are safe to use by the public and society. The human skin is easily vulnerable to injury but it has the capability to
heal on its own. However, the natural healing process can take time and there is also risk of infection especially in the early stages of injury. In
such cases, medicated creams can be applied to the site of injury to speed up the healing process as well as protect the wound from infection. In
this review, we have focused on the use of topical drug delivery system i.e. pharmaceutical creams for wound healing with det ailed discussion
relating to the wound healing process, suitable methods of preparation of creams, their classification based on their function, their advantages
and disadvantages, characteristics and the various types of creams, ingredients used in the formulation of creams and their v arious evaluation
parameters.
Keywords: Creams, Skin, Topical drug delivery system, Wound healing
Article Info: Received 13 Aug 2020; Review Completed 10 Sep 2020; Accepted 22 Sep 2020; Available online 15 Oct 2020
Cite this article as:
Chauhan L, Gupta S, Creams: A Review on Classification, Preparation Methods, Ev aluation and its Applications, Journal of
Drug Delivery and Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289 http://dx.doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v10i5-s.4430
*Address for Correspondence:
Lalita Chauhan, Assistant Professor (Pharmaceutics), School of Pharmacy and Emerging Sciences, Baddi University of
Emerging Sciences and Technology, Village Makhnumajra Baddi District Solan, Tehsil Nalagarh, H.P -173205
INTRODUCTION
The word ‘Cosmetic’ derived from a Greek word –
‘kosmesticos’ that means to adorn. From that time any
materials used to beautification or promoting appearance is
known as cosmetic.[1] The word “cosmetics” actually stems
from its use in Ancient Rome. They were typically produced
by female slaves known as “cosmetae” which is where the
word “cosmetics” stemmed from. Cosmetics are used to
enhance appearance. Makeup has been around for many
centuries. The first known people who used cosmetics to
enhance their beauty were the Egyptians. Makeup those days
was just simple eye coloring or some material for the body.
Now-a-days makeup plays an important role for both men
and women. The importance of cosmetics has increased as
many people want to stay young and attractive. Cosmetics
are readily available today in the form of creams, lipstick,
perfumes, eye shadows, nail polishes, hair sprays etc. Other
cosmetics like face powder give glow to the skin after
applying the base cream. Then we have lipsticks, which are
applied by many women of all ages. They are made from wax
and cocoa butter in the desired amount. Cosmetics like
creams, gels, and colognes are used on a daily basis by both
women and men. Creams act as a cleanser for the face in
many circumstances. More recently anti-ageing creams have
been manufactured which can retain younger looking skin
for many years. The best cleansing agents are cleansing
cream, soap and water. Cosmetic creams serve as a skin food
for hard, dry and chapped skin. It mainly lubricates, softens
and removes unwanted dirt from the skin. Some popular fat
creams that are used include Vaseline and Lanolin. Dry
creams are used in the manufacture of soap and gelatin
which is used as a base for the skin. Hair care has become
one of the fastest developing markets in the beauty industry.
Many young men turn to oils and gels to maintain and style
their hair. Products like hair gels, oils, and lotions have been
introduced in the market to help protect hair fall and
dandruff. Some professions, like the show business industry,
focus on the importance of the outer appearance. Many
personalities and artists have utilized makeup to beat the
harsh lights and the glare of camera flashes. They very well
know the importance of their looks and maintain them by
using a variety of cosmetics. Recent research has shown that

Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [282] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
makeup helps in protection from harmful rays of the sun.
Many beauty products manufacturers have utilized the needs
of people to protect themselves and their skin from the rays
of the sun. Many beauty products manufacturers have
utilized the needs of people to protect themselves and their
skin from the rays of the sun. The Importance of Cosmetics
Today Cosmetics help to enhance our appearance and make
us feel more confident. With more cosmetics on the market
today than ever before, it becomes obvious to us that they
play a great role in our everyday life.
TOPICAL DRUG DELIVERY
Over the last decades the treatment of illness have been
accomplished by administrating drugs to human body via
various roots namely oral, sublingual ,rectal, parental ,topical
,inhalation etc. Topical delivery can be defined as the
application of a drug containing formulation to the skin to
directly treat cutaneous disorder or the cutaneous
manifestations of a general disease (eg. psoriasis) with the
intent of containing the pharmacological or the effect of drug
to the surface of the skin or within the skin semisolid
formulations in all their diversity dominate the system for
topical delivery, but foams, spray , medicated powders,
solutions and even medicated adhesive systems are in
use.[2]
Advantages of topical drug delivery system
 Avoidance of first pass metabolism.
 Convenient and easy to apply.
 Avoid of risk.
 Inconveniences of intravenous therapy and of the
varied conditions of absorption like Ph changes
presence of enzymes gastric emptying time etc.
 Achievement of efficacy with lower total daily dosage of
drug by continuous drug input.
 Avoid fluctuation of drug levels inter and intra patent
variations.
 Skin irritation or dermatitis may occur due to the drug
or excipients.
 Most drugs have a high molecular weight and are
poorly lipid soluble, so are not absorbed via skin or
mucous membranes.
 Very slow absorption.
 It can be used only for those drugs which need very
small plasma concentration for action.
 Can be used only for drugs which require very small
plasma concentration for action
 Possibility of allergic reactions.
 Drugs of larger particle size not easy to absorb through
the skin.[3]
PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN SKIN
Epidermis
The epidermis is the most superficial layer of the skin and is
composed of stratified keratinised squamous epithelium,
which varies in thickness in different parts of the body. It is
thickest on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
There are no blood vessels or nerve endings in the
epidermis, but its deeper layers are bathed in interstitial
fluid from the dermis, which provides oxygen and nutrients,
and drains away as lymph.
Figure 1: Cross-Section of Skin[4]
Dermis
The dermis is tough and elastic. It is formed from connective
tissue and the matrix contains collagen fibres interlaced
with elastic fibres. Rupture of elastic fibres occurs when the
skin is overstretched, resulting in permanent striae, or stretch
marks, that may be found in pregnancy and obesity. Collagen
fibres bind water and give the skin its tensile strength, but as
this ability declines with age, wrinkles develop. Fibroblasts,
macrophages and mast cells are the main cells found in the
dermis. Underlying its deepest layer there is areolar tissue and
varying amounts of adipose (fat) tissue.
Subcutaneous gland
These consist of secretory epithelial cells derived from the
same tissue as the hair follicles. They secrete an oily
substance, sebum, into the hair follicles and are present in the
skin of all parts of the body except the palms of the hands and
the soles of the feet. They are most numerous in the skin of the
scalp, face, axillae and groins. In regions of transition from one

Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [283] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
type of superficial epithelium to another, such as lips, eyelids,
nipple, labia minora and glans penis, there are sebaceous
glands that are independent of hair follicles, secreting sebum
directly onto the surface.[5]
FUNCTIONS OF SKIN
Skin performs the following functions:
a) Protection: An anatomical barrier from pathogens and
damage between the internal and external environment in
bodily defence, Langerhans cells in the skin are part of the
adaptive immune system.
b) Sensation: Contains a variety of nerve endings that react to
heat and cold, touch, pressure, vibration, and tissue injury, see
somato sensory system and haptics.
c) Heat regulation: The skin contains a blood supply far
greater than its requirements which allows precise control of
energy loss by radiation, convection and conduction. Dilated
blood vessels increase perfusion and heat loss, while
constricted vessels greatly reduce cutaneous blood flow and
conserve heat.
d) Control of evaporation: The skin provides a relatively dry
and semi-impermeable barrier to fluid loss. Loss of this
function contributes to the massive fluid loss in burns.
e) Aesthetics and communication: Others see our skin and
can assess our mood, physical state and attractiveness.
f) Storage and synthesis: Acts as a storage centre for lipids
and water, as well as a means of synthesis of vitamin D by
action of UV on certain parts of the skin.
g) Water resistance: The skin acts as a water resistant barrier
so essential nutrients aren't washed out of the body.
DISEASES OF SKIN
a) Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition in which areas of skin lose their
normal pigment and so become white. It is common, and
affects about 1% of the world’s population. The pigment
that gives your skin its normal colour is melanin, which is
made by cells known as melanocytes.
b) Scabies
Scabies is a common and very itchy skin condition caused
by human scabies mites. It can affect people of any age
but is most common in the young and the elderly. The
mites that cause scabies are tiny parasites, smaller than a
pinhead. The rash of scabies is a mixture of scratch
marks and red scaly areas; later it can become infected
and develop small pus spots.
c) Rosacea
Rosacea is a common rash, found on the central part of
the face, usually of a middle aged person. A tendency to
flush easily is followed by persistent redness on the
cheeks, chin, forehead and nose. The cause of rosacea is
not fully understood, but many think that the defect lies
in the blood vessels in the skin of the face, which dilate
too easily.
d) Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin problem affecting about 2%
of the population. It occurs equally in men and women, at
any age, and tends to come and go unpredictably. It is not
infectious, and does not scar the skin. The skin is a
complex organ made up of several different layers.
e) Melanoma
Cutaneous malignant melanoma is a cancer of the
pigment cells of the skin. If it is treated early, the outlook
is usually good. It is not contagious. The word
‘melanoma’ comes from the Greek word ‘melas’, meaning
black. Melanin is the dark pigment that gives the skin its
natural colour.
f) Eczema (Atopic Eczema)
Atopic eczema is an inflammatory condition of the skin. Atopic
is the term used to describe conditions such as eczema,
asthma, seasonal rhinitis and hay fever, which often have a
genetic basis. Eczema is the term used to describe changes in
the upper layer of the skin that include redness, blistering,
oozing, crusting, scaling, thickening and sometimes
pigmentation.
CREAMS
Creams are the topical preparations which can be applied on
the skin. Creams are defined as “viscous liquid or semi-solid
emulsions of either the oil-in-water or water-in-oil type”
dosage forms which consistency varies by oil and water.[6]
Creams are used for cosmetic purposes such as cleansing,
beautifying, improving appearances, protective or for
therapeutic function. These topical formulations are used for
the localized effect for the delivery of the drug into the
underlying layer of the skin or the mucous membrane. These
products are designed to be used topically for the better site
specific delivery of the drug into the skin for skin disorders.[7]
Creams are considered as a pharmaceutical product as they
are prepared based on techniques developed in the
pharmaceutical industry; unmedicated and medicated creams
are highly used for the treatment of various skin conditions or
dermatoses. Creams can be ayurvedic, herbal or allopathic
which are used by people according to their needs for their
skin conditions. They contain one or more drugs substances
dissolved or dispersed in a suitable base. Creams may be
classified as o/w or w/o type of emulsion on the basis of
phases. The term ‘cream’ has been traditionally applied to
semisolid formulated as either water-in-oil (e.g.: cold cream)
or oil-in-water (e.g.: vanishing cream).[8]
TYPES OF SKIN CREAMS
They are divided into two types:
Oil-in-Water (O/W) creams which are composed of small
droplets of oil dispersed in a continuous phase, and an
emulsion in which the oil is dispersed as droplets throughout
the aqueous phase is termed an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion.
Water-in-Oil (W/O) creams which are composed of small
droplets of water dispersed in a continuous oily phase. When
water is the dispersed phase and an oil the dispersion medium,
the emulsion is of the water-in-oil (W/O) type.[9-11]
CLASSIFICATION OF CREAMS
All the skin creams can be classified on different basis:
1. According to function, e.g. cleansing, foundation,
massage, etc.
2. According to characteristics properties, e.g. cold creams,
vanishing creams, etc.
3. According to the nature or type of emulsion.
Types of creams according to function, characteristic
properties and type of emulsion:

Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [284] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
1. Make-up cream (o/w emulsion): a) Vanishing creams. b)
Foundation creams.
2. Cleansing cream, Cleansing milk, Cleansing lotion (w/o
emulsion)
3. Winter cream (w/o emulsion): a) Cold cream or
moisturizing creams.
4. All-purpose cream and general creams.
5. Night cream and massage creams.
6. Skin protective cream.
7. Hand and body creams.
1. Make-up cream-
These are mainly o/w type of emulsion. It is cream-based
product which leaves a smooth hydrated finish (either stain
matte or luminous) on the skin. It nourishes skin andis
basically sweat-resistant and creates a dewy sheen.
 Vanishing creams: They are called vanishing creams
because they seem to disappear when rubbed onto the
skin. These formulations are based on stearic acid. After
application, the cream leaves a dry but tacky residual film
which also has a drying effect on the skin. Because of this
reason, these are used particularly in hot climates which
cause perspiration on the skin.
 Foundation creams: These cream serve as a foundation
base for make-up. It acts as an adherent base for
application of make-up powders. They provide emollient
action and a protective action against environment to the
skin which is neither too greasy nor too dry. It is multi-
coloured make up applied on the face to create an even,
uniform colour similar to the complexion, to cover flaws
and to change the skin tones.
2. Cleansing creams
These creams are used for body cleaning purposes and it is
used for personal hygiene and beautification which is
important for cosmetics. Cleansing creams or lotions can be
used for the removal of make-up, surface grim, oil mainly
from the face and neck.
3. Winter creams
These are w/o type of formulation and in this formulation oil
content will be more than water content. These creams are
mainly used for chapped and dry skin. Cold cream: It is
known as moisturizer or moisturizing cream. Cold cream
must have an emollient action. It should produce a cooling
sensation in use and the oil film on the skin should be non-
occlusive.
4. All purpose creams and general creams
These creams are used more nowadays than before. These
creams are somewhat oily but non-greasy type and can
spread on the skin easily. This can also be used as a night
creams, nourishing creams, protective creams for prevention
or alleviation of sunburns or for the treatment of roughened
skin areas.
5. Night cream or massage creams
These creams are mainly used for the nourishing the skin or
as a treatment to dry skin. Creams which are generally
applied on skin and left for few or several hours over night
are mainly known as night creams. Creams which acts as an
emollient by rubbing the cream on the skin with massage is
known as massage cream.
6. Skin protective creams
These creams are smooth, thick bodied creams formulated to
provide an invisible, uniform protective film barrier to the
skin. It helps to maintain the barrier between the skin and
contaminants that may irritate the skin (contact dermatitis
and occupational dermatitis). Strengthens the natural
properties of the skin and maintains the balance of normal to
combination skin.
7. Hand and body creams
Hands are one of the first places to show signs of aging. We
tend to wash our hand several times a day, stripping off
moisture. Applying cream softens and protects the skin and it
keeps the skin looks younger. Since the skin on our palms and
fingers needs oil to stay supple and to prevent it from chapping
and cracking, it is sensible to use hand creams that puts plenty
of oil back in. It is used on the hands more than other parts of
the body.[12-15]
GENERAL INGREDIENTS USED IN SKIN CREAMS
The raw materials which are used in a manufacturing of skin
creams include:
 Water: This is the most important and widely used raw
material in any cream formulation. These are the
cheapest and easily available. In skin creams, water is
used as solvent to dissolve other ingredients of creams.
Water, which is free of any toxins, pollutants, microbes,
etc. is used in preparation of creams. Water can also form
emulsions, it depends upon how much quantity of water
is used in the formulation and sometimes referred to as
oil-in-water emulsions and sometimes water-in-oil
emulsions depending upon the quantities of oil phase and
water phase used.[16]
 Oil, fates and waxes: Oil, fats and waxes and derivatives
there form comprise an essential portion of creams.
Waxes act as an emulsifier, fats act as a thickener and oil
act as a perfuming agent, preservative, etc. according to
its function .Oil may be two types’ mineral and glyceride
 Mineral oil: Mineral oil consists of hydrocarbons derived
from petroleum oil .Mineral oil is clear, odorless, and
heavily refined oil and it is widely used in cosmetics.
Mineral oil rarely causes allergic reactions and it cannot
become solid and clog pores of the skin. It is light weight
and inexpensive, it helps to reduce water loss from the
body and keeps body moisturized. A number of mineral
oils are used in cream formulation.
Examples:
 Light liquid paraffin
 Heavy liquid paraffin
 Liquid petroleum
 Glyceride oil: Glyceride oil is mostly vegetable oils.
Examples of glyceride oils are almond oil, arachis oil,
castor oil, coconut oil, olive oil etc.
 Vegetable oil: Form a barrier on the surface of the skin
and slow down the loss of water, helping to maintain
plumpness of skin. Vegetable oils may also be used to
increase the thickness of the lipid or oil portion of cream
or personal care products.E.g. Almond oil, germ oil,
avocado oil, sunflower oil etc.[17] Waxes: Which are
used in preparation of cream includes beeswax, carnauba
wax, ceresin, spermaceti, etc. Waxes are used in
cosmetics because it helps to keep an emulsion from
separation of oil and liquid components. These waxes

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ISSN: 2250-1177 [285] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
also increase the thickness of the lipid portion and sticks
on the surface of the skin.
 Fats: Different types of fats are used in the preparation of
creams. These materials can be obtained from animals,
plants or mineral origin. Glyceride oils and fats may be of
animals or vegetable origin. They consist of combinations
of higher fatty acids and glycerin. When saponified they
form soap, or fatty acid and glycerin, depending upon
process used. The most common of these fatty acid are
lauric, margaric, plamitic, stearic, saturated group. Oleic
acid is liquid and most popular unsaturated fatty acid.
More specially the oil most commonly used in other
cosmetics are olive oil, almond oil, seasame oil, peanut
oil, coca butter fat, mutton tallow, lard and beef
stearine.[18]
 Lanolin: It is derived from wool fat of a sheep. Lanolin
are of two types- the hydrous lanolin contains between
25%- 30% water. Anhydrous lanolin has point of 38°C-
42°C and has a slight odour. These ingredients act as a
lubricant on the skin surface, which gives the skin soft
and smooth appearance. Lanolin helps to form emulsion
and blends well with other substances used in cosmetic
and personal care products.
 Colours: Before the development of the modern
technology, colours primarily came from substances
found in nature such as turmeric, saffron, indigo, etc.
After the 19th century, colours were made in the
laboratory and were found to be much more stable with
greater colouring intensity. They also could be produced
without using plants harvested in the wild.[19]
 Emollients: Emollients, also commonly referred to as
moisturizers, are products that help to soften skin or to
treat skin that has become dry. Most emollients are forms
of oil or grease, such as mineral oil, squalene, and lanolin.
They work by increasing the ability of the skin to hold
water, providing the skin with a layer of oil to prevent
water loss, and lubricating the skin.[20]
 Humectants: These are important multi-functional
ingredients found in most skin care formulations.
Humectants are hydroscopic organic compounds. These
are the materials that can absorb or retain moisture.
These has many benefits such as moisturization,
exfoliation, etc. Examples of humectant are glycerin,
Hydroxyethyl urea, betaine, sodium PCA, Sodium-L-
Lactate, etc.[21]
 Perfumes: Perfume is a substance that imparts a scent or
order, including a sweet and pleasant smell. Examples of
natural perfumes used in creams are-
 White Blossoms:
 Rosy Dreams
 Orange Blossom[22]
 Vitamins: Vitamins plays an important role in
maintaining the physiological function of whole body and
the skin. Vitamin A, B, C, E etc. are generally used in
formulation of the creams.
 Preservatives: The use of preservatives in cosmetics is
essential to prevent alteration caused by microorganism
and contamination during formulation, shipment, storage
and consumer use. Antioxidants can also be used to
protect alteration caused by exposure to oxygen.
Synthetic preservatives when used in low concentration
effectively preserve the products.[23]
WOUND AND WOUND HEALING PROCESS
Wounds may be defined as a loss or breaking of cellular and
anatomic or functional continuity of the deep skin tissue or the
living tissues. Wounds may be produced by physical, chemical,
thermal, viral, microbial, violence or the immunological trauma
to the surface of the skin.[24-28] Wounds not only affect the
patient physically and emotionally but can also significantly
cost them and the scars may remain for the lifetime of the
patient. Wounds are generally termed as the physical injury
that causes opening and breaking of the skin. Wounds can be
classified mainly on the basis of mode of infliction and
causative agent as:[29-30]
1) Closed wound: contusion, closed fracture, etc.
2) Open wound
a) Sharp cut.
b) Laceration.
c) Abrasion.
d) Avulsion.
e) Crush wound.
f) Punctured wound.
g) Bite wound.
h) Burn wound.
Wound healing is a process of cell contraction, movement, re-
adhesion after injury or trauma of the skin. Wound healing
involves platelet aggregation, blood clotting, formation of
fibrin, inflammatory response to damage, alteration in the
ground substances, angiogenesis and re- epithilization.[31-32]
Healing process cannot be complete until the disrupted surface
are vigorously knit by collagen and finally terminated by scars
formation.[33-34] The process of wound healing may be
hampered by the presence of free radicals which will damage
the surrounding skin tissues. And the process of wound
healing is influenced by several factors such as infections,
nutrition, drugs and hormones, type and the sites of the wound
and certain disease conditions.[35] In India, since centuries
people are using natural products obtained from plant and
animal for treatment of wounds which was taught in a popular
form of Indian medicine know as Ayurveda.[36] Natural
products have been used since centuries in different parts of
world; natural products are becoming as important as
alternative medicine because of their comparatively lesser side
effects. Due to these reasons, natural/traditional medicine are
investigated scientifically for the betterment of human health.
These are used directly as in crude or raw form of drug for the
treatment of chronic diseases.[37-39]
AYURVEDIC MEDICINES FOR WOUND HEALING
1. Aloe Vera (A. barbadensis): It is one of the important
herbs in Ayurveda. It is having wide range of uses in skin
conditions such as burns, psoriasis, cold sores, etc. It can
also be for fever, itching, inflammation.[40-41]
2. Peppermint (Mentha piperita): It is a popular herb and
it is used in numerous forms. Peppermint oil when
applied on the skin provides a cooling sensation. It is
used in aromatherapy, bath preparation, mouth washes,
toothpaste and topical preparations. It is used to calm
pruritus, relieve irritation and inflammation and wound
healing.[42-43]
3. Turmeric (Curcuma longa): In India, turmeric is used
as spices as well as a colouring agent. It is having various
medicinal properties as anti-cancer, antidiabetic,

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antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral,
wound healing, etc.[44-45]
4. Jatropacurcas: It is known for various medicinal
properties. It is having anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti
HIV , anti-bacterial, wound healing, etc.[46]
5. Honey: Honey has been used since ancient times as a
traditional medicine. Honey is having antioxidant, anti-
tumor, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and
cardiovascular potentiating agent. It is also used as a
wound dressing and wound healing agent. Honey has
been used to treat adult and neonatal postoperative
infections, burns, necrotizing fasciitis, infected and
nonhealing wounds and ulcers, boils, pilonidal sinus,
venous ulcer and diabetic foot ulcers.[47-48]
6. Marigold (Calendula officinalis): It is a short lived
aromatic herbaceous perennial plant. It is a flower/plant
which that has been used for centuries for ornamental
purpose, cosmetic and medicinal purpose. Calendula is
one of the top herbs and can be taken orally, it is one of
the most powerful antioxidant and it is one of the
strongest antiviral herbs. It is having anti-inflammatory,
calms muscle spasm, heals ulcers, wounds, and
hemorrhoids, aids menstruation, contains antimicrobial
and antiviral components, improves oral health.[49-50]
7. Ghee: The butter which is obtained from the cow milk
has been claimed to have many medicinal properties like
it is cooling in energy, rejuvenating, bestows luster and
beauty, enhances memory and stamina, increases the
intellect, and promotes longevity. It is having
antimicrobial, immune stimulant, antioxidant and
hepatoprotective activity .The process of wound healing
by cow ghee is faster than antibiotics. Cow ghee contains
several saturated and unsaturated fatty acids which are
capable of taking part in metabolic processes involved in
healing of any wounds.[51-52]
Table 2: Examples of some plants currently investigated for wound-healing applications
Herb
Main Constituents
Physical Forms and
Administration Routes
Laboratorial and
Clinical Evidence
Ref
Aloe Vera
Soluble sugars, nonstarch
polysaccharides, lignin,
polysaccharides, glycoproteins,
and antiseptic agents
Forms: solutions,
creams ,mucilage, gels,
and dressing Routes:
topical and oral
Anti-inflammatory and
antimicrobial activity;
stimulate cell
proliferation
[53-57]
Hippophaerhamnoides
(sea buckthorn)
Flavonoids (e.g., quercetin,
isorhamnetin), carotenoids
(e.g., alpha, beta-carotene,
lycopene), vitamins(C,E,K),
tannins, organic acids,
triterpenes, glycerides of
palmitic, stearic, oleic acids and,
amino acids
Forms : aqueous leaf
extract, seed oil
Routes :topical and oral
Antioxidant and anti-
inflammatory activities;
stimulate the healing
process; improve wound
contraction and
epithelialization;
increase the
hydroxyproline and
protein content in the
wound
[58-59]
Angelica sinensis
Essential oils and water-soluble
ingredients; ferulic acid is the
main active constituent
Forms: ethanol extract,
ferulic acid dissolved in
DMSO
Routes: n.a (in vitro
tests)
Stimulate the
proliferation of human
skin fibroblasts, the
secretion of collagen
[60]
Catharanthus roseus
(Vinca rosea
Contain two major classes of
active compounds: alkaloids
(e.g., vincamine) and tannins
Forms:leaf ethanol
extract
Routes: topical
Antimicrobial activity
against Pseudomonas
aeruginosa and
Staphylococcus aureus;
increase wound
strength,
epithelialization, and
wound contraction
[61-62]
Calendula officinalis
(marigold)
Triterpenoids and flavonoids
Forms:gels, aqueous
extracts, hexane, and
ethanolic extracts
dissolved in DMSO
Routes: Topical
Anti-inflammatory and
antibacterial activities;
stimulate the
proliferation and
migration of fibroblasts
in vitro
[63]
ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES/CREAMS FOR WOUND
HEALING
1. Soframycin: The Soframycin skin creams is
manufactured as 1% w/w as per IP which has
Framycetinsulphate as the main component.
Soframycin skin cream are used in curing wounds,
furunculosis, cuts, burns, ulcers, lice, impetigo, otitis
externa, scabies, sycosis barbae, etc.[64]
2. Neosprine: It is made up of three antibiotics that are
neomycin sulphate, polymyxin B sulphate and
bacitracin zinc. The topical ointment can be used to
treat certain skin infections in burns, minor cuts, and

Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [287] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
wounds. These antibiotics works by killing bacteria
that causes these infections.
3. Silver Nitrate: It is a prescription topical solution used
in treating wounds and burns on the skin as an
antiinfective agent, antiseptic and caustic. There is
little literature about the adverse effect of silver
nitrate. Silver nitrate can potentially be used as a
cauterizing or sclerosing agent.[67] Silver
Sulphadiazine: This medication is used along with
other treatment to help prevent and treat wound
infections in patients with serious burns. Silver
sulphadiazine works by stopping the growth of
bacteria that may infect an open wound. This helps to
decrease the risk of the bacteria spreading to
surrounding skin, or to the blood where it can cause a
serious blood infection (sepsis). Silver sulphadiazine
belongs to a class of drugs known as sulfa antibiotics.
Silver sulphadiazine cream is used to prevent and treat
wound infections in patients with second- and third
degree burns. Silver sulphadiazine must not be used on
premature babies or on newborns during the first 2
months of life because of the risk of serious side
effects.[65]
4. Cetrimide: It is an antiseptic which is a mixture of
different quaternary ammonium salts including
cetrimonium bromide. It was first discovered and
developed by ICI and introduced under the brand
name Cetavlon. It is used as a 1-3% solution for
cleaning roadside accident wounds.
5. Betadine: It is having an active ingredient as Povidone
Iodine USP 10% w/w (available iodine 1%). Povidone
iodine is bactericidal against gram-positive and gram
negative bacteria. It is a broad-spectrum antiseptic for
the topical treatment or prevention of infection in
minor cuts and abrasions, minor surgical procedures
and small area of burns, treatment of mycotic and
bacterial skin infections.[64]
RELEVANT METHODS OF PREPARATION OF
CREAMS FOR WOUND-HEALING:
 Preparation of o/w emulsion cream
The oil soluble components and the emulsifier are
taken in one beaker and melted in a water bath at 75°C.
And in other beaker water, preservatives and water-
soluble components are taken and melted at 75°C.
After heating, the oil phase was taken in a mortar and
pestle and slowly the water phase was added and
triturated till clicking sound was heard. Finally, when
the temperature cools down, perfuming agents and/or
preservatives are added. In this preparation, water
content will be more than the oil.
 Preparation of w/o emulsion creams
The oil soluble components and the emulsifier are taken in
one beaker and melted at 75°C. And in another beaker water
and water soluble components are taken and melted at 75°C.
After melting, water phase are taken in mortar and pestle
and slowly oil phase was added and triturated till clicking
sound was heard. And when the temperature of the cream
will get cooled, then the perfuming agent are added. In this
preparation, water phase will be less and oil phase will be
more.[64]
EVALUATION PARAMETERS OF CREAMS:
1. Determination of pH: The pH of the cream can be
measured on a standard digital pH meter at room
temperature by taking adequate amount of the
formulation diluted with a suitable solvent in a suitable
beaker.
2. Physical appearance: The physical appearance of the
cream can be observed by its colour, roughness and
graded.
3. Spreadability: Adequate amount of sample is taken
between two glass slides and a weight of 100gm is
applied on the slides for 5 minutes. Spreadability can
be expressed as,
S= m*l/t
Where, m = weight applied to upper slide.
l = length moved on the glass slide.
t = time taken.
4. Saponification value: 2gm of substance refluxed with
25ml of 0.5 N alcoholic KOH for 30min, to this 1ml of
phenolphthalein added and titrated immediately, with
0.5N HCl, note the reading as ‘a’. Repeat the operation
omitting the substance being examined. Note the
reading as ‘b’.
Saponification value = (b-a)*28.05/w
Where,
w = weight of substance in gram.
5. Acid value: 10gm of substance is dissolved in
accurately weighed 50ml mixture of equal volume of
alcohol and solvent ether, the flask was connected to
reflux condenser and slowly heated, until sample was
dissolved completely, to this 1ml of phenolphthalein
added and titrated with 0.1N NaOH, until faintly pink
colour appears after shaking for 30 seconds. Acid
value = n*5.61/w
Where,
n = the no. of ml of 0.1 N KOH solution.
w = the weight of substance in gram.
6. Viscosity: Viscosity of formulated creams can be
determined by using Brookfield Viscometer
7. Homogeneity: The formulation was tested for the
homogeneity by visual appearance and by touch.
8. Removal: The ease of removal of the creams applied
was examined by washing the applied part with tap
water.
9. Dye test: The scarlet dye is mixed with the cream.
Place a drop of cream in a slide and cover with a cover
slip and examine it under a microscope. If the disperse
globule appears red and the ground colourless then it
is o/w type and the reverse condition appears in w/o
type of creams.
10. After feel: Emolliency, slipperiness and amount of
residue left after the application of fixed amount of
cream was checked.
11. Type of smear: After application of cream, the type of
film or smear formed on the skin were checked.
12. Irritancy study: Mark an area of 1sq.cm on the left
hand dorsal surface. The cream was applied to the
specified area and time was noted. Irritancy, erythema,
edema was checked, if any, for regular intervals upto
24hrs and reported.

Chauhan et al Journal of Drug Delivery & Therapeutics. 2020; 10(5-s):281-289
ISSN: 2250-1177 [288] CODEN (USA): JDDTAO
13. Accelerated Stability Study: Accelerated stability
study is conducted for formulation according to ICH
guidelines.[65]
CONCLUSION
Creams are semisolid formulations widely acceptable by the
society. The skin is the most accessible part of the body and
as such is also highly vulnerable to injuries. In case of cuts,
burns and wounds, topical formulations such as creams are
the most preferred for treatment. Research and
development for the formulation of pharmaceutical creams
for wound healing purpose has grown in recent decades
owing to its obvious benefits. With the progress in the
pharmaceutical field and industry, it is assured that
pharmaceutical creams will still be an interesting and
appealing area of research for years to come. More advanced
technologies and methods will be used for preparation,
formulation and evaluation of creams in coming years. The
demand of herbal constituents based creams are also
increased day by day.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Authors are highly thankful to Dr. Tilak Raj Bhardwaj, Dean
of School of Pharmacy and Emerging Sciences for their
support and encouragement and Department of Pharmacy,
Baddi University for providing library facility during
literature survey.
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