Saudi Journal of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (SJMPS)
Volume-11 | Issue-11 | 1047-1055
Original Research Article
Formulation of Hair Gels Based on Mango Pectin and Coconut Oil
Awa Nakognon TUO-KOUASSI, Sandrine AKA ANY-GRAH, Kakwokpo Clemence N’guessan-Gnaman, Jean-Michel Vianney Atsé Achi, Apo Laurette Ingrid Anin, Arthur Jose Lia, Alain N’guessan, Ismael Dally, Armand Angely Koffi
Published : Nov. 7, 2025
Abstract
Alopecia, defined as thinning or loss of hair, is a condition affecting the hair follicle. Traction alopecia, which is traumatic in nature, mainly results from common hairstyling practices among black women. Conventional treatments, such as minoxidil, have many limitations. This study aimed to formulate hair gels based on pectin extracted from mango and coconut oil, in order to offer a natural alternative for the treatment of traction alopecia. The extracted raw materials were characterized. The pectin gel was prepared at 95°C under agitation at 800 rpm, then dispersed in the lipophilic phase under constant agitation at 1500 rpm for 10 minutes to obtain two formulations, B and B'. These homogeneous gels showed instability under centrifugation. Microscopic examination revealed coarse emulsions. Over 28 days, control showed a slight variation in pH, indicating satisfactory microbiological stability. In stability tests at different temperatures, gel B proved stable at 6 ± 2°C, 25 ± 2°C, and 40 ± 2°C, while gel B' remained stable only at cold and room temperatures. In terms of rheology, gel B exhibited shear thinning behavior, thixotropic behavior and viscoelastic properties, unlike gel B', which showed predominantly elastic behavior. These results are part of the development of innovative phytocosmetics for the management of traction alopecia in black women.