Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Sunscreen Cream

 Corresponding author: Pramod Dattu Pokharkar Copyright © 2025 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License 4.0. Formulation and Evaluation of Herbal Sunscreen Cream Pramod Dattu Pokharkar *, Mujeba Rajjak Pathan, Prachi Nandkumar Padwal, Saurabh Narayan Shinde, Omkar Ganpat Pawade and Sachin Mahadu Bhalekar Department of Quality Assurance Technique, Samarth Institute of Pharmacy, Belhe, Pune, Maharashtra. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 Publication history: Received on 13 September 2025; revised on 20 October 2025; accepted on 23 October 2025 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjbphs.2025.24.1.0917 Abstract Sunscreen Preparation is applied topically, and its purpose is to heal, prevent or resist skin from painful or harmful effects of Sunburn, sunstain, sun cancer, and premature skin aging and to escalate the level of Sun Protection Factor (SPF).[1] It is difficult to Find good sun protection formulation which is non-greasy and moisturizing to the skin. The herbal sunscreen will not Only protect the skin from the effects of harmful UV rays but also eliminate the use of chemical sunscreens. Herbal Sunscreens include natural oils such as almond oil, olive Oil, Neem oil, coconut oil and Vitamin E oil etc. which penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin plunge the signs of early Aging by hydrating the skin. Herbal ingredients such as green tea, Aloevera, liucoric, turmeric etc. Have shown properties Such as absorbance of a broad spectrum of UV rays, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. They also cause skin Tightening, help prevent skin damage, heal acne, fade scars, Lighten dark circles and effectively make skin radiant. It is found that there are some adverse effects like cell mutation, DNA damage, Hormone alteration, and eczema (allergic reaction) by the synthetic sunscreen agents. [2] Various formulations have Multifunctional sun protection activity and it is based on their efficacy of UV rays’ absorption apart but most of the Formulations are of high cost and merged synthetic molecules have toxicity and are even carcinogenic. Phytochemical evaluation, total Phenolic and flavonoid content of herbal extracts, and Physicochemical characterization of prepared formulations Were examined. The sun protection effectiveness of the Creams was assessed in terms of SPF values.[3] Keywords: Synthetic Chemicals; Herbal Elements; UV Radiation; Sunburn; Skin Cancer; Sunscreen; Photoprotective; Polyphenols; Wound Healing; Evaluation 1. Introduction Sunscreens are an organic defence mechanism that protects the skin, the body’s outermost layer, from harmful UV rays. Its ability to absorb, reflect, or scatter some of the UV radiation emitted by the sun onto exposed skin that has been oversunned with UV radiation UVA and UVB radiation can lead to skin melanoma, sunburn, Photoaging, pigmentation, and other uncomfortable or hazardous effects.[5] Since flavonoids, phenolic compounds, or plant oils are capable of absorbing UV radiation in the UV-A range, they are important constituents of UV protection and have been proven to exhibit anti-oxidant, wound healing, antifungal, premature aging, moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities.[7] Most of the sunscreen products available on the market are designed to protect the skin from sunburn and skin cancer. A market survey, however, showed that some of the synthetic sunscreen chemicals have undesirable side effects such as hormone alteration, cell mutation, and eczema (allergic reaction).[13] 1.1. Advantages of Herbal Sunscreen •It serves as a shield and rests on top of skin. •It absorbs sunlight and forms a barrier that deflects and Blocks UV rays before they reach the skin surface. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 327 • There is no need to wait; it provides protection Immediately. • Herbal components are typically better for sensitive Skin. • Easily available, No side effect. • They are inexpensive. • Easy to manufacture. • Non-toxic and non-irritant. 1.2. Disadvantages of Chemical Sunscreen • Including the potential to induce skin cancer. • The ability to absorb UV rays and convert them into Heat that is then emitted by the skin. • A slow rate of effectiveness, and an increased risk of Irritation and pain due to the chemical active ingredient. • They are difficult to hide taste and odour. • Manufacturing process are time consuming and Complicated. 2. Material and Methods 2.1. Aloe Vera Gel Aloe vera is well-known for its calming and hydrating qualities gel serves as a base for the sunscreen and helps to hydrate the skin Figure 1 Alovera gel • Plant profile: Aloe Vera • Plant: Aloe barbadensis miller • Family: Liliaceae • Synonym: Aloe Vera mill, etc. 2.2. Green tea extract Neutralizes free radicals generated by UV rays, preventing DNA damage and photoaging. Figure 2 Green tea extract World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 328 • Plant profile: Green tea • Botanical Name: Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze • Family: Theaceae • Synonyms: Green Tea, Cha, Camellia tea plant. 2.3. Turmeric extract Curcumin (active compound) has natural UV-absorbing properties, especially in the UV-B range. Acts as a natural SPF booster when combined with oils (like coconut, sesame, or almond oil). Figure 3 Turmeric Extract • Plant profile: Turmeric • Botanical Name: Curcuma long • Family: Zingiberaceae (Ginger family) • Synonyms: Turmeric, Haldi (Hindi), Haridra (Sanskrit), Jiang Huang (Chinese). 2.4. Liquorice Extract Glycyrrhizin reduces redness, itching, and irritation caused by sunburn. Liquorice contains glabridin (a flavonoid) which has strong UV-absorbing properties. Helps block UVB-induced pigmentation and prevents tanning. Figure 4 liquorice extract • Botanical Name: Glycyrrhiza glabra • Family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae) • Synonyms: Liquorice, Liquorice, Sweet Root, Mulethi (Hindi), Yashtimadhu (Ayurveda). 2.5. Neem oil Prevents bacterial/fungal infections in sun-exposed, sweaty skin. Neem oil contains fatty acids and antioxidants that provide mild SPF protection. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 329 Figure 5 Neem oil • Plant: Azadirachta indica Juss • Family: Meliacea • Synonyms: Margosa oil. 2.6. Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera) It is a tropical plant which is grown and is farmed numerously by the Indonesian. It has fatty acids and is Reported to have antioxidant properties photoprotection, and other pharmaceutical activities such as anti-bacterial, skin Barrier repair, anti-aging, wound healing, and moisturizing in atopic dermatitis treatment. Figure 6 coconut • Botanical Name: Cocos nucifera • Family: Arecaceae (Palm family) • Synonyms: Coconut oil, Nariyal Tel (Hindi), Copra oil. 2.7. Olive oil It is a fat derived from the olive fruit. Olive oil is made up of triglyceride esters of oleic acid and palmitic acid along with traces of squalene, sterols, (phytosterols, and tocosterols), and also consists of polyphenols like esters of Tyrosol and hydroxyl tyrosol including oleocanthal and oleuropein. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 330 Figure 7 olive oil 2.8. Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) It is derived from shea nut fat. The shea tree is native to Africa’s savannas. Its promise is to melt at body temperature and to soak quickly into the skin and it delivers results without a greasy residue. It is utilized As an antioxidant and it has vitamins A and E in it, both of which stimulate skin cell formation and drive blood Below the skin surface. Figure 8 shea butter 2.9. Beeswax (Cera alba) It is obtained from honeybees belonging to the genus Apis and it is a natural wax. Primarily Beeswax foundation serves as an Emulsifier and thickener and also employed for emulsion stabilization. Beeswax is employed to melt the solids to Ease the blending with water phase ingredients through the heating and mixing method. 2.10. Lavender oil • Soothing and Anti-inflammatory: Calms redness, irritation, and itching after sun exposure. Reduces mild sunburn inflammation. • Antioxidant Protection: Helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV rays. Supports anti-aging activity of Vitamin E oil. • Antimicrobial Effect: Prevents bacterial or fungal growth on sun-exposed skin • Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia (also Lavandula officinalis) • Family: Lamiaceae (Mint family) • Common Names: Lavender oil, True lavender, Lavandula World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 331 3. Methodology Table 1 Materials Used Ingredient Quantity taken Role of ingredient Aloe Vera extract 12 ml 85% reflect UVradiation, SPF (14 16). Green tea extract 1 ml Works as a natural UV filter, antioxidant. Turmeric extract 0.5 ml Turmeric acts as a natural photoprotective. Liquorice extract 1 ml Acts as a UV-protective agent, skin whitener. Neem oil 1.5 ml Contain vit. E, vit. C, Moisturiser for dry skin. Coconut oil 3 ml Acts as a mild UV filter, natural moisturizer. Olive oil 2 ml Mainly used as a natural SPF contributor. Shea Butter 5 ml Acts as a mild natural sunscreen, emollient. Bees Waxes 2.5 ml Beeswax acts as a natural thickener, stabilizer, emollient. Glycerine 3 ml Mainly as a humectant, moisturizer, stabilizer. Vitamin E oil 1 ml Vitamin E acts as an antioxidant, moisturizer, photoprotective enhancer. Lavender oil 0.5 ml Enhances fragrance, provides skin-soothing. Water 17 ml Total 50 ml 3.1. Preparation of herbal extracts To prepare herbal extracts for a herbal sunscreen cream, start by selecting herbs with antioxidant and UV-protective properties such as green tea, turmeric, licorice, neem, and aloe vera. For water-soluble compounds, prepare an aqueous extract by gently heating powdered herbs in distilled water at 60–70°C for 30–45 minutes, then filter and cool.[5] For compounds that dissolve in alcohol, use a hydroalcoholic extract by macerating the herb powder in 70% ethanol for 24– 48 hours, followed by filtration and concentration. Oil-soluble compounds, like carotenoids or essential oils, can be extracted by infusing dried herbs in a carrier oil such as coconut or sesame oil, heating gently at 50–60°C for 1–2 hours, then filtering.[10] These extracts are then incorporated into the sunscreen cream, with aqueous extracts added to the water phase and oil-based extracts to the oil phase, ensuring gentle mixing to preserve the active compounds and enhance the cream’s UV protection and antioxidant properties.[12] 3.2. Preparation of herbal sunscreen cream 3.2.1. Prepare Herbal Extracts • Soak 1 g each of green tea, turmeric, and liquorice in 10–15 mL distilled water. • Heat gently at 60–70°C for 30 minutes. • Filter and cool the extracts. • Neem oil can be used directly or infused with herbs by heating at 50–60°C for 1–2 hours and filtering. 3.2.2. Prepare Oil Phase Melt coconut oil, olive oil, cocoa butter, and beeswax over low heat until fully liquefied. 3.2.3. Prepare Aqueous Phase Heat distilled water and aloe vera gel to a similar temperature as the oil phase. 3.2.4. Form Emulsion Slowly add the aqueous phase to the melted oil phase while stirring continuously to form a smooth cream. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 332 3.2.5. Add Herbal Extracts and Additives • Let the emulsion cool slightly. • Add herbal extracts, glycerine, vitamin E oil, neem oil, and optional lavender oil. • Mix gently to preserve active compounds. 3.2.6. Final Steps • Pour the cream into clean, sterilized containers. • Allow it to cool completely. • Store in a cool, dark place. [10,15] 3.3. Evaluation 3.3.1. Physical Evaluation • Appearance and Colour: Check for uniform colour and smooth, creamy texture without lumps. • Odor: Should be pleasant or herbal; no rancid or off smell. • Consistency: The cream should spread easily without being too thick or too runny. • pH: Measure pH using a pH meter or pH strip; ideally between 5.5–6.5 for skin compatibility. 3.3.2. Spreadability Place a small amount of cream between two glass slides and measure the area covered under a certain weight. A good sunscreen cream should spread easily. 3.3.3. Homogeneity Examine the cream under a microscope or visually for uniform distribution of herbal extracts and oils; no phase separation should occur. 3.3.4. Stability • Centrifugation test: Spin the cream at 3000 rpm for 15–20 minutes; check for separation. • Storage test: Store samples at room temperature, refrigeration, and elevated temperature (40°C) for 1–3 months; observe changes in color, odor, or texture. 3.3.5. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) Evaluation Use in vitro UV spectrophotometric method or a laboratory SPF testing kit to determine SPF value. Compare with standard sunscreen values to ensure adequate UV protection. 3.3.6. Microbial Evaluation Test for microbial contamination using standard microbiological methods to ensure safety. 4. Result The developed herbal sunscreen cream was smooth, uniform, and homogenous in appearance, had a good herbal pleasant odor and non-greasy texture and was cosmetically acceptable for topical application. The pH was 6.0 ± 0.05, which falls within the optimal range for skin application, indicating compatibility and minimizing irritation risk. The formulation was excellent in spreadability and consistency and easily applied to the skin without leaving any sticky residue upon absorption. In the stability studies at room temperature and forced conditions (40 °C/75% RH), no phase separation, discoloration, or microbial contamination was observed with the cream. The viscosity and pH were maintained almost unchanged over the testing period and reflect the good physical and chemical stability. The critical wavelength was more than 370 nm, which confirmed that the formulation offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB areas. The cream also demonstrated substantial antioxidant activity (41.3%) in the DPPH radical scavenging assay, indicating that the herbal extracts incorporated in the formulation are responsible for antioxidant protection against UV-induced oxidative skin damage. World Journal of Biology Pharmacy and Health Sciences, 2025, 24(01), 326-334 333 A skin irritation test conducted on healthy human volunteers found no adverse effects, including redness or itching, affirming that the formulation is safe and non-irritant. Microbial limit tests were within acceptable pharmacopeial limits, demonstrating effective preservation. Generally, the findings demonstrate that the formulated herbal sunscreen cream has favorable physicochemical properties, good broad-spectrum sun protection, antioxidant activity, and stability, which qualify it as a potential, safe, and effective natural substitute for artificial sunscreen products. 5. Conclusion The current research effectively developed and tested a herbal sunscreen cream from natural components with established photoprotective and skin-care benefits. The formulated sample displayed favourable physical traits such as silky feel, acceptable spreadability, emulsion stability, and pleasant natural aroma. Test parameters such as pH, viscosity, and stability revealed that the formulation was safe and could be used topically. In vitro determination of SPF showed adequate protection against UV, validating the possibility of herbal extracts being used as natural counterparts of synthetic sunscreen chemicals. In general, the formulated herbal sunscreen cream provides a safer, environmental-friendly, and affordable alternative against detrimental ultraviolet radiation with added skin benefits from the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herb compounds. Additional research on long-term stability and in vivo SPF testing can further improve its commercial viability. Compliance with ethical standards Acknowledgments We sincerely acknowledge the continuous guidance, motivation, and constructive feedback provided by our mentor Prof. Ms. Prachi Padwal; their expertise and patience have been instrumental in shaping this review paper. We also extend our gratitude to Samarth Institute of Pharmacy, Belhe, Pune, Maharashtra for providing the necessary academic environment and resources that supported this work. Disclosure of conflict of interest No conflict of interest to be disclosed. References [1] Jangde R, Herbal Sunscreen: An overview ., vol. 2, Res J Top Cosmet Sci, 2011. [2] S. 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