FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL SUNSCREEN CREAM

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of a herbal sunscreen cream using natural ingredients such as Aloe vera, turmeric, carrot oil, and orange peel powder. The objective of the study was to develop a safe, effective, stable, and skin-friendly sunscreen formulation with enhanced photoprotective activity and reduced adverse effects associated with synthetic sunscreen agents. The cream was prepared using the oil-in-water emulsion method and evaluated for various physicochemical parameters including colour, odour, appearance, pH, viscosity, homogeneity, spreadability, washability, irritancy, stability, and Sun Protection Factor (SPF). The prepared formulation showed good homogeneity, non-greasy texture, easy washability, and no signs of irritation or rancidity. The pH of the cream was found to be compatible with skin, ranging from 6.9 to 7.2, while viscosity ranged from 1380 to 1387 cps, indicating good consistency and spreadability. The formulated herbal sunscreen cream exhibited an SPF value of 26, demonstrating significant protection against harmful UV radiation. The presence of phytoconstituents such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, antioxidants, and natural oils contributed to effective UV absorption and free radical scavenging activity. The study concluded that the herbal sunscreen cream provides effective photoprotection, enhanced skin safety, and better stability, making it a promising alternative to conventional synthetic sunscreens.

KEYWORDS:
Herbal sunscreen cream, Sun Protection Factor (SPF), UV radiation, Photoprotection, Aloe vera, Turmeric, Carrot oil, Orange peel powder, Herbal cosmetics, Antioxidant activity, Skin protection, Herbal formulation.

 

Herbal sunscreen cream Sun Protection Factor (SPF) UV radiation Photoprotection Aloe vera Turmeric Carrot oil Orange peel powder Herbal cosmetics Antioxidant activity Skin protection Herbal formulation.