IPB University Professor Creates Eco-Friendly Exfoliating Gel Innovation from Pandan for Facial Care
Professor of the Faculty of Agricultural Technology (Fateta) of IPB University, Prof Khaswar Syamsu, created Ecoskin from pandan extract that is innovated for exfoliating gel. Pandan leaves, which are usually used as food coloring, can be extracted for facial care. This can happen because pandan leaves contain polyphenol compounds that have antioxidant activity and are extracted with ethanol solvent.
“The antioxidants produced can be used as an alternative substitute for synthetic antioxidants in the food or cosmetic industry by utilizing the content found in pandanus,” said Prof. Khaswar.
He stated that Ecoskin has two meanings, namely as a product that is economically affordable and environmentally friendly because it uses natural ingredients.
“People often use facial scrubs containing small granules as part of skincare or to remove the top layer of skin. However, this method of scrubbing often causes irritation on the face, especially on sensitive skin types,” she says.
Furthermore, he said, Ecoskin with pandan leaf extract is formulated with various additional ingredients such as moisturizers and antimicrobial substances. Besides functioning as a product preservative, the addition of antimicrobial substances also has benefits for skin health.
“Ecoskin is very easy to use. Simply apply the gel evenly to the face and leave it on for 15 minutes before rinsing with water. Although there is no specific recommendation regarding the duration of use, this product is recommended for use three to four times a week at night,” said a lecturer from the Department of Agricultural Industry Technology at IPB University.
Khaswar assures that this exfoliating gel is safe for use by both women and men. This is because the product is made from natural ingredients proven to be safe for the body and does not contain synthetic chemical mixtures. Moreover, the product is also guaranteed to be halal as it does not contain animal proteins such as collagen.
Khaswar mentioned that from empirical testing, it was found that the majority of panelists found the product suitable for use without experiencing side effects. Most of them also preferred this product over other commercial products because it provided a cool sensation and softness to the skin.
“I hope the marketing of this product can provide more options for the public in finding skincare or facial care products made from natural ingredients. This is because many people currently make the wrong choice in beauty products that contain chemicals unsuitable for the skin, leading to issues such as acne, dry skin, and dark spots,” he concluded. (*/Lp) (IAAS/ZQA)
