FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIFUNGAL HANDWASH

Prof. Kshitij S. Varma*, Siddhi S. Sonawane, Sapna K. Sonawane, Vedant V. Sonawane, Rushikesh S. Sonawane, Bhushan M. Shirsath and Shubham S. Shirsath

Fungal infections of the skin are a common concern, especially in environments where hygiene is paramount. Traditional antifungal treatments often require prolonged contact with the skin, which may not always be practical in everyday situations. Antifungal handwash formulations represent an innovative approach to addressing this challenge by combining effective antifungal agents with the convenience and frequency of hand hygiene practices. This review explores the development and formulation of antifungal handwash products, discussing the selection of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) such as clotrimazole, ketoconazole, miconazole, and econazole, and their efficacy in controlling common fungal pathogens. The role of excipients in ensuring skin compatibility, enhancing the stability and release of the active agents, and improving the user experience. Additionally, the review highlights key evaluation parameters, including antimicrobial efficacy, skin irritation potential, foamability, and release testing, which ensure the safety and effectiveness of these products. Finally, the potential benefits of incorporating antifungal handwash formulations into public health strategies for preventing fungal infections are discussed, along with the challenges in developing such products for widespread use. This article provides an in-depth understanding of antifungal handwash formulations, and their role in advancing topical antifungal therapies.