UV-VISIBLE SPECTROSCOPIC QUANTIFICATION OF SUN SCREENING EFFICIENCY OF SOME HERBAL EXTRACTS AND COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE BODY CREAMS AND SUNSCREENS IN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

In this study, the sun protection factor (SPF) of different plant extracts, as well as commercial sunscreens and body cream, was evaluated using the UV-Visible spectroscopic approach, which is quick, simple, and inexpensive. The in vitro SPF value is estimated using the spectrophotometric method proposed by Mansur et al. After dilution with ethanol solutions, five herbal extracts, Ocimum lamifolium hochst (Damakese), Rhamnus prinoides (Gesho), Vernonia amygdalina (Grawa), Thymus schimperi (Tosign), and Trigonella foenum-graecum (Abish), were prepared, and the absorbance was measured between 290 nm and 320 nm. All of the examined herbal extracts were found to have some level of UV protection; the highest SPF value was 5.86 for Rhamnus prinoides (Gesho) extract, while the lowest was 0.93 for Ocimum lamifolium hochst (Demakese) extract. The same technique was applied to determine the SPF values of commercial body cream and sunscreens. The examined samples, Lady Diana, Valera, Dr. Rachel, and Super White's - labeled SPF values were in the range of 30 and 60. After evaluation, the results of the analysis showed that all of the selected samples had SPF values lower than what was written on the label. This discrepancy raises questions about the product's effectiveness and reliability. Commercial products shield the skin from UV rays; however, prolonged exposure may result in negative effects on the skin. The impact of chemical sunscreens must be countered by an alternative. This study examined the possible photo-protective qualities of natural substitutes, especially herbal extracts, in response to these concerns.