Comparative Physicochemical Properties and Photoprotective Efficacy of Homemade and Commercial Herbal Sunscreens
Abstract
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause significant damage to human skin, leading to both acute and chronic adverse effects. While commercial sunscreens provide protection, increasing consumer concerns about synthetic ingredients have driven interest toward natural alternatives. This study investigated the physicochemical properties and photoprotective efficacy of homemade and commercial herbal sunscreens available in the Turkish market. The homemade formulations were developed using scientifically validated herbal extracts with known photoprotective properties, including green tea (Camellia sinensis), aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis), carrot seed oil (Daucus carota), raspberry seed oil (Rubus idaeus), and lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia). Five different herbal sunscreen formulations (F1-F5) were prepared using standardized procedures and compared with commercial products regarding pH, spreadability, homogeneity, stability, and estimated sun protection factor (SPF) values. The formulations were characterized using established physicochemical methods, including pH measurement, spreadability tests, microscopic examination, stability tests, and in vitro SPF determination. Results demonstrated that the homemade herbal formulations exhibited superior performance with pH values ranging from 6.7 to 7.1, which is optimal for skin compatibility. The homemade formulations showed excellent homogeneity (4-5/5) and stability (5/5), with estimated SPF values ranging from 30 to 34, significantly higher than most commercial herbal products (mean SPF 25.3 ± 4.2). Formulation F5, containing green tea extract and raspberry seed oil, exhibited the highest estimated SPF value (34) and excellent physicochemical properties. Microscopic examination revealed that mineral filter particles were well-dispersed in homemade formulations, while commercial products showed variable particle distribution. This study provides scientific evidence that properly formulated homemade sunscreens with herbal ingredients can offer comparable or superior photoprotection compared to commercial products, while potentially providing additional benefits from bioactive plant compounds. However, further in vivo testing and long-term stability studies are recommended to confirm these findings and establish standardized formulation guidelines for herbal sunscreens.
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References
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