Potential Extract of Poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima) as a sunscreen against UV exposure

Abstract

Exposure to UV (Ultraviolet) rays for a certain period can cause erythema, sunburn,photoallergies, and forms ROS (Reactive Oxygen Species) which leads to gene mutations,premature aging, and skin cancer. Skin cancer in Indonesia ranks third after cervical cancer andbreast cancer. Sunscreens can protect skin from UV exposure, although many sunscreens usechemicals that can cause contact dermatitis and other allergies. Various studies have shown thatplants with antioxidants can protect the skin from exposure to UV rays. Poinsettia (Euphorbiapulcherrima) is an ornamental plant with antioxidant properties. This literature review aims to examine the potential of the poinsettia as a sunscreen against UV rays. The extract of thepoinsettia leaf has the potential to be sunscreen against UV exposure because the antioxidantcontent of flavonoids and other photo protectors, inhibits ROS, thereby preventing mutations andthe process of ordering skin cancer. Antioxidants in poinsettia help heal burns and stimulatefibroblast to prevent premature photoaging due to excessive UV exposure. Conclusion, Kastubaleaf extract (Euphorbia Pulcherrima) has the potential as a sunscreen against UV exposure
 Keywords: Poinsettia; Ultraviolet (UV); Antioxidant; Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS)