Abstract

FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL SUNSCREEN

Mohd. Sadiq*, Dipanshu Mahour, Lucky Saini, Sarvagya Saraswat and Anjali Sharma

Abstract

The increasing concern about chemical-based sunscreens has shifted focus towards herbal alternatives, leveraging the photo protective properties of medicinal plants. This review aims to comprehensively evaluate the efficacy and safety of herbal sunscreens, highlighting the phyto constituents responsible for their ultraviolet (UV) radiationabsorbing and antioxidant activities. A systematic search of literature databases revealed 50 studies examining the sun protection factor (SPF), antioxidant capacity, and cytotoxicity of herbal extracts, including those from plants like Aloevera, Green tea, Turmeric, and Neem. The results demonstrate that various phyto constituents, such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids, exhibit significant photo protective effects, reducing UV-induced skin damage and inflammation. However, variability in SPF values, stability, and potential skin irritation highlight the need for standardized extraction methods, formulation optimization, and clinical trials. This review provides an evidence-based assessment of herbal sunscreens, emphasizing their potential as natural, sustainable alternatives for skin protection.

Keywords: Herbal sunscreen, Phyto-constituents, Photo protection, Ultraviolet radiation, Antioxidant activity, Natural sunscreens.