FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF ANTIFUNGAL PAPER SOAP

Prof. Kshitij S. Varma, Shirsath Bhushan Mahendra*, Sonawane Rushikesh Sanjay, Sonawane Siddhi Sudhir, Sonwane Sapana Kiran, Sonawane Vedant Valmik, Shirsath Shubham Sanjay

Fungal infections of the skin are prevalent and pose a significant public health concern, particularly in tropical regions where warm and humid climates facilitate fungal growth. Traditional antifungal treatments, such as creams, ointments, or oral medications, often have limitations, including inconvenience, ineffectiveness, and poor patient compliance. This study focuses on the formulation and comprehensive evaluation of a novel antifungal paper soap, combining the convenience of soap with the effectiveness of antifungal agents. The novel paper soap formulation is designed to deliver antifungal drugs directly to the site of infection through an easy-to-use, disposable sheet. Clotrimazole, miconazole, ketoconazole, tea tree oil, and zinc pyrithione were incorporated as active antifungal agents. The formulation was extensively evaluated for its physicochemical properties, antifungal efficacy, and user compliance. In vitro release studies, microbial testing (against dermatophytes and yeast), and stability assessments were conducted to ensure the effectiveness and durability of the antifungal paper soap.