A Review on: Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Sunscreen

Abstract

Herbal sunscreens are commonly utilized by nearly everyone to protect against the damaging effects of UV radiation from the sun. This research focuses on creating and assessing herbal sunscreen creams that demonstrate effectiveness against UV radiation. The goal is to formulate and evaluate a herbal sunscreen using a blend of natural plant extracts recognized for their sun-blocking properties. The initiative will add to the expanding research on herbal sunscreens, concentrating on their efficacy, safety, and ecological impact. The study intends to encourage the creation of more secure and environmentally conscious sunscreen options. Key physicochemical characteristics, such as viscosityand water resistance, are examined to guarantee product stability and convenience for users. The study also investigates the potential for broad-spectrum against both UVA and UVB rays, aiming to offer comprehensive sun protection.

Introduction

With increasing awareness of the side effects of chemical cosmetics, herbal sunscreens are gaining popularity for their safer, skin-friendly properties. These sunscreens protect against harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation, prevent sunburn, and are generally free from harsh chemicals.

Types & Mechanism of Sunscreen:

• Physical (Inorganic): Reflects/scatters UV rays (e.g., zinc oxide).

• Chemical (Organic): Absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat.

• Topical vs Systemic: Most sunscreens are for external (topical) use only.

Key Herbal Ingredients:

1. Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera):

   • Natural SPF, rich in antioxidants, moisturizes and protects.

2. Aloe Vera Gel (Aloe barbadensis):

   • Soothes sunburns, promotes healing, retains moisture.

3. Butterfly Pea Flower:

   • Rich in antioxidants, improves skin barrier, retains hydration.

4. Rose Water (Rosa damascena):

   • Balances pH, moisturizes, improves SPF effectiveness.

5. Vitamin E:

   • Fights free radicals, enhances elasticity, prevents UV damage.

Formulation Process:

• Prepare butterfly pea flower extract.

• Mix with aloe vera gel, rose water, vitamin E, and coconut oil.

• Stir the mixture for 20–30 minutes until smooth.

• Store in sterilized containers.

Formulation Table:

Evaluation of Herbal Sunscreen:

• SPF Determination: Tested using absorbance between 290–320 nm.

• pH: Measured at 6.5 (skin-friendly).

• Homogeneity: Smooth, uniform texture.

• Color & Odor: Light blue, characteristic scent.

• Spreadability: Good and uniform.

• Irritancy Test: No irritation observed.

Applications:

• Suitable for pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries to offer natural, eco-friendly alternatives to chemical sunscreens.

• Addresses rising consumer demand for organic skincare.

Conclusion

The study looked at the effectiveness of a herbal sunscreen lotion made from butterfly pea flower extract in avoiding sunburn.A broad range of absorption is necessary for sunscreen products to effectively prevent sunburn and other skin damage.The main factors influencing the acceptability of cosmetic formulations during handling and storage are viscosity and spreadability.When the formulation was stored for a long period, it was discovered that the cream\'s color did not change and that it showed no signs of redness, inflammation, or irritation.Washing with tap water made removing the lotion simple.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Ms. Shweta Kharat, Ms. Ketakee More, Ms. Arti M. Gadade, Mr. Nitin M. Gawai, Ms. Tanuja Satpute . This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.