FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL SUNSCREEN CREAM FOR THE PREVENTION OF SUNBURNS

The present study focuses on the formulation and evaluation of an herbal sunscreen using natural ingredients with photo protective properties. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, particularly UVA and UVB rays, is known to cause harmful effects on the skin such as sunburn, premature aging, and increased risk of skin cancer. Conventional sunscreens, though effective, may produce adverse effects including skin irritation and long-term toxicity, which has led to growing interest in herbal alternatives. This study aims to develop a safe and effective herbal sunscreen formulation incorporating natural ingredients such as aloe vera, neem, coconut oil, rose water, and vitamin E. These ingredients are selected based on their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and UV-protective properties. The formulation is designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against UV radiation while enhancing skin health and minimizing side effects. The prepared herbal sunscreen was evaluated using various physicochemical parameters including pH, homogeneity, spread ability, skin irritation, and organoleptic properties such as colour, odor, and texture. The results indicated that the formulation is stable, non-irritant, and suitable for topical application. The presence of natural antioxidants helps in neutralizing free radicals and reducing photo-oxidative damage. In conclusion, the developed herbal sunscreen demonstrates potential as a safer alternative to synthetic sunscreens, offering effective protection against UV radiation along with additional skin benefits. This study supports the increasing demand for herbal cosmetic formulations with improved safety and efficacy profiles. Keywords: Ultraviolet-A (UVA), Ultraviolet-B (UVB), Herbal sunscreen, Aloe vera, Neem extract, Emulsion, Sunburn prevention, Moisturizing agents, Herbal formulation.