Determination of Sun Protection Potential of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis as Natural Additive for Cosmetic Industry

Abstract

Harmful rays coming from the sun cause negative effects on the human body. Sunscreens and UV protective products are used to reduce and prevent these negative effects. Plants have been used in medicine and cosmetics for centuries, and have the potential to treat skin diseases. Consumers tend to use sunscreens that contain natural ingredients instead of synthetic sunscreens. In this study, the in vitro solar protection factor (SPF) values of water extracts from flowers and leaves of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis were investigated. In addition, the SPF values of the water extracts and commercially available cream mixtures were also examined. The SPF values of the extracts were measured at the wavelengths of 290-320 nm of UV-B ultraviolet rays reaching the earth from the sun. SPF values of H. rosa-sinensis flower and leaf extracts were determined as 11.77 and 22.10. The leaf extract has the highest SPF value (21.70) in 10 mL concentration among the prepared extract and cream mixtures. Therefore, H. rosa-sinensis extracts with high SPF values may have the potential to be used as natural additives in the cosmetic industries.