High Sun Protection Factor Research Articles

Development and Evaluation of Herbal Sunscreen Formulation

Solar radiations will produce both beneficial and deleterious effects on the skin. When the skin is exposed to solar radiation for a long time it will produce various harmful effects. Sunscreens are intended to protect the skin from these harmful effects. The sunscreen agents in the formulation may scatter, reflect or absorb UV radiations and prevent its penetration into the skin and thereby skin damage. The efficacy of sunscreen is expressed by Sun protection factor (SPF).A higher value of SPF indicates more protective effect of sunscreen. In this study, the SPF of few herbal oils were determined and the one with high SPF value was selected and formulated. The samples were evaluated for in vitro SPF, physical appearance, presence of unwanted substances, pH, viscosity and spreadability. The in vitro SPF is determined according to the spectrophotometric method of Mansur et al.

Photoprotective Activity of Plants Used for Skin Disorders by the Native Population from the Brazilian Amazon Basin: A Preliminary Study

Pharmacognosy Research,2023,15,1,112-118.DOI:10.5530/097484900267Published:December 2022Type:Original ArticleAuthors:Thiago Portal, Margarete Tavares, Marcieni Ataide, Nadia Rezende Barbosa, Joseane R da Silva, Waldiney Pires Moraes, and Jose Luiz Vieira Author(s) affiliations:Thiago Portal, Margarete Tavares, Marcieni Ataide, Nadia Rezende Barbosa, Joseane R da Silva, Waldiney Pires Moraes, Jose Luiz Vieira* Faculty of Pharmacy, Campus Universitario do Guama, Para Federal University, Belem-PA, Brazil. Abstract:Background: Sunscreens are essential in tropical countries with a high annual incidence of solar radiation. The incorporation of natural products in their formulations has great public acceptance and prevents several issues related to organic and inorganic filters, such as adverse reactions. The present study evaluates the antioxidant and photoprotective activities and the ability to inhibit tyrosinase of three plant species traditionally used by Amazonian inhabitants in the treatment of skin disorders. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity, the capacity to inhibit the enzyme tyrosinase, ratio UVA/UVB, critical wavelength, sun protection factor, and cellular viability was assessed in ethanolic extracts at 10% of Chrysobalanus icaco, Kalanchoe pinnata, and Ayapana triplinervis collected in the State of Para-Brazil. Results: Chrysobalanus icaco and Kalanchoe pinnata showed promising antioxidant activity. Ayapana triplinervis demonstrated considerable inhibition of the tyrosinase enzyme. Plants extracts had low protection against UVB radiation, but adequate UVA protection. Ayapana triplinervis presented the lowest cellular viability of keratinocytes and murine fibroblasts. Conclusion: The addition of these extracts to other natural products with high sun protection factors can provide the consumer with a natural sunscreen. Keywords:Antioxidant, Ayapana triplinervis, Chrysobalanus icaco, Depigmenting agent, Kalanchoe pinnata, Photoprotection, Skin disordersView:PDF (246.16 KB)

Microwave-assisted extraction of polysaccharide from Cinnamomum cassia with anti-hyperpigmentation properties: Optimization and characterization studies

The anti-hyperpigmentation effect and tyrosinase inhibitory mechanism of cinnamon polysaccharides have not been reported. The current study focused on the extraction of polysaccharides from Cinnamomum cassia bark using microwave-assisted approach and optimization of the extraction process (i.e., microwave power, irradiation time and buffer-to-sample ratio) by Box–Behnken design to obtain a high yield of polysaccharides with high sun protection factor (SPF), anti-hyperpigmentation and antioxidant activities. The extracted pectic-polysaccharides had low molecular weight and degree of esterification. The optimal extraction process had polysaccharides characterized by (a) monophenolase inhibitory activity = 97.5 %; (b) diphenolase inhibitory activity = 99.4 %; (c) ferric reducing antioxidant power = 4.4 mM; (d) SPF = 6.1; (e) yield = 13.7 %. The SPF, tyrosinase inhibitory and antioxidant activities were primarily contributed by the polysaccharides. In conclusion, the polysaccharides from C. cassia could be an alternative therapeutic source for skin hyperpigmentation treatment.

Sunscreen lip balm stick formulation containing a combination of virgin coconut oil and crude palm oil

Virgin coconut oil (VCO) and crude palm oil (CPO) are products of Indonesia’s natural wealth with significant antioxidant activity and potential as lip balm sticks to treat dry lips caused by sun exposure. This study aims to determine the formulation of lip balm stick preparations containing VCO and CPO that have sunscreen activity and acceptable physical characteristics. This study included the phases of testing, formulation of lip balm stick, sunscreen activity test, and evaluation of physical properties. The compositions were melted using a water bath, and the sunscreen’s efficacy was evaluated using UV-Vis spectrophotometry. VCO and CPO concentrations varied between 5%, 7.5%, 10%, 12.5%, and 15% (w/w). The F1 formula containing 5% VCO and 15% CPO (w/w) had the highest sun protection factor (SPF) value of 15.438. The evaluation of the formula activity test revealed that the higher the CPO content, the greater the sunscreen activity. Formula F1 has stable physical properties while stored at room temperature for 28 days. Formula F1 has a yellow color, chocolate scent, semi-solid consistency, homogeneous, 3.35 cm dispersion, 56 oC melting point, and 64-gram hardness. Formula F1 provides excellent sun protection and physical properties. It may be further evaluated as a lip balm stick sunscreen formulation for chapped lips.

Revealing the relationship between molecular weight of lignin and its color, UV-protecting property

Lignin has great potential as a natural, green, and sustainable broad-spectrum sunscreen active ingredient. However, the coexistence of dark color and sunscreen properties hinders its application in cosmetics. In this study, we focus on the effects of the molecular weight of lignin on tis UV-protecting property and color in order to prepare lignin-based sunscreen with high performance. A prepared sunscreen containing low molecular weight lignin (F5, <1000 g/mol) exhibits good UV-protecting property (sun protection factor (SPF) = 7.14) and light color advantages (ΔE = 46.2). Moreover, a strong synergistic effect on UV-protecting property exists between low molecular weight lignin and ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EHMC), resulting in high SPF of F5@EHMC-based sunscreen (55.56). Additionally, added TiO2 can efficiently mitigate the dark color of lignin-based sunscreens due to prominent covering power of TiO2. Moreover, lignin-based sunscreens have good biocompatibility with HaCaT cells. This work is useful for understanding the mechanism of the UV-protecting property and dark color of lignin, and for designing an efficient and safe lignin-based sunscreen.

Photoprotection for people with skin of colour: needs and strategies.

Skin of colour or pigmented skin has unique characteristics: it has a higher eumelanin-to-pheomelanin ratio, more mature melanosomes, an increased amount of melanin distributed in the upper layers of the epidermis, and more efficient DNA repair compared with lighter skin. However, individuals with skin of colour are at a significant risk of skin damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, including the development of photodermatoses and photoageing changes such as uneven skin tone, and are predisposed to pigmentary disorders. In fact, one of the most common conditions leading to dermatology consultations by patients with skin of colour is photoexacerbated pigmentary disorders. Unfortunately, individuals with skin of colour may be less prone to engage in photoprotective measures, including the use of sunscreens. Physicians are also less likely to prescribe sunscreens for them. There is thus a clear need for better education on photodamage and for more efficient and suitable photoprotection in populations with skin of colour. However, this need has thus far only partially been met, and the development of sunscreen products designed to provide optimal photoprotection for people with skin of colour remains a challenge. Targeted sunscreens for individuals with skin of colour require optimal cosmetic appeal (leaving no white residue and not disrupting skin tone). They should include broad-spectrum [ultraviolet (UV)B/UVA] protection with high sun protection factor, as well as protection against long-wave UVA (UVA1) and visible light, as these wavelengths are capable of inducing or augmenting pigmentary disorders. They may also contain depigmenting agents for patients with pigmentary disorders.

Calcium Phosphates from Fishery Byproducts as a Booster of the Sun Protection Factor in Sunscreens.

Calcium phosphates (CaPs) have been recently proposed as a bio- and eco-compatible alternative to UV filters in sunscreens, which are in the spotlight for being associated with health risks for both people and the environment. Here, natural CaPs extracted from fish bones have been tested as a booster of the sun protection factor (SPF), that is, as material working in synergy with UV filters to increase sunscreen UV-shielding efficiency, in combination with three of the most used UV filters, namely, octocrylene (OCR), octinoxate, and padimate-O, at different concentrations (10.0 and 20.0 wt %). The material obtained by calcination at 800 °C (CaP-N) was also enriched with Zn (CaP-Zn) or Mn (CaP-Mn) in an attempt to increase its SPF-boosting abilities. CaP-N and CaP-Zn consisted of a biphasic mixture of hydroxyapatite and beta tricalcium phosphate, while CaP-Mn presented a small quantity of Mn oxides. CaP-N was the most effective at increasing the SPF of the final emulsions, doubling the SPF of the formulation containing 20.0 wt % of OCR from 40.6 to 80.8. The results show that these CaPs, produced according to a circular economy approach, can be used as effective SPF boosters to decrease the concentration of UV filters used in sunscreen, while retaining high SPF values.

Phytochemical analysis, antioxidant and photoprotective activities of aqueous extract of Euphorbia retusa Forssk. different parts from Algeria

Euphorbia retusa is an endemic medicinal plant of Sahara. This study aimed to determine the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of Euphorbia retusa seed, capsule and leaves aqueous extracts as well as to evaluate the antioxidant and photoprotective activities. The correlations between these activities and the different contents were also performed. The antioxidant activity was estimated by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis-3-ethyl benzthiazoline-6-sulfonic (ABTS) scavenging, β-carotene bleaching, cupric-reducing activity (CUPRAC) and reducing power essays. In addition, the sun protection factor (SPF) was reported for the first time and measured according to the Mansur equation. Results showed that, seeds exhibit a higher total phenolics and flavonoids contents. This organ showed the highest capacity in DPPH (IC50 = 50.79 ± 1.87 µg ml-1), ABTS (IC50 &lt; 6.25 µg ml-1), β-carotene bleaching (IC50 &lt; 6.25 µg ml-1), reducing power (A0.50 = 6.97 ± 0.75µg ml-1) and CUPRAC (A0.50 = 7.64 ± 0.30µg ml-1) essays. Accordingly, seed extracts characterized by a high sun protection factor (SPF = 38.26 ± 0.07). Nevertheless, the Pearson correlation coefficients calculated show the highest positive correlation between total phenolic and flavonoids contents and photoprotective activity, while no correlations were found between SPF and other antioxidant activity. This plant could be used as alternative adjuncts in sunscreen product preparation.

Investigation of the value-added potential of some selected freshwater cyanobacteria

Ever growing population and environmental degradation lead to a rapid deterioration of global health, causing malnutrition and Ultra Violet radiation-induced skin damages to be more prevalent. It is critical to address these health issues quickly and sustainably. Compared to natural botanicals, cyanobacteria could be more promising due to their superior photosynthetic capabilities, rapid growth, low space and simple nutrients requirements, low capital investment, and zero environmental pollution. Therefore, this study explores the value added potential of freshwater cyanobacteria in addressing the above health issues sustainably. Eight cyanobacteria strains, isolated from freshwater reservoirs in the dry zone of Sri Lanka were analyzed for total carbohydrate, protein, macro and micro minerals using Dubois’ method, Lowry method, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry. Mansur equation was applied to determine the Sun Protection Factor (SPF). Total carbohydrate and protein contents were in the range of 7.08 ± 0.32% - 53.08 ± 0.32% and 15.27 ± 0.90% - 49.77 ± 9.62%, respectively. Oscillatoriales had the highest total carbohydrate content (53.08 ± 0.32%), higher than the carbohydrate content of other previously reported Oscillatoria species. Calcium and iron were the most abundant macro and micro minerals, respectively. Oscillatoriales recorded the highest SPF (1.57 ± 0.002), whereas all the other strains had considerably greater or similar SPFs compared to other previously reported herbal extracts. Cyanobacteria with rich nutrition profiles and high SPF values may thus represent interesting alternatives for offering sustainable and ecofriendly solutions to significant health challenges associated with population growth.

Characteristics and common ultraviolet filter usage of sunscreens purchased online: Cross-cultural analysis across 5 continents.

A wide range of sunscreen products are available globally. Designed to meet various customer needs, they differ in formulations type, textures, ingredients, ultraviolet (UV) protection capabilities, and other properties. Knowing the factors influencing the purchase of sunscreens and the UV filters commonly used in each global region would be beneficial for dermatologists, consumers, and regulators. Data on 50 best-selling sunscreens from each of 20 countries on 5 continents (1000 products in all) were retrieved from Amazon Marketplace during the period from January to July 2021. Among the 5 continents, Asia had the highest proportion of consumers (71.1%) choosing high sun protection factor (SPF) sunscreens (SPF ≥50). In contrast, Europe had the highest percentage (11.8%) purchasing <30 SPF sunscreens. The lack of standard UVA protection labeling was significantly highest in South America. The use of inorganic-based sunscreen was highest in North America, and across all continents, those products were significantly more expensive than organic-based sunscreens. Globally, lotions were the most favored formulation type. "Nongreasy/dry touch" (45.1%) and "lightweight texture" (40.4%) were the most common promotional terms used. The most common UV filters differed among regions. Iron oxide, which can function as a visible light filter, was most frequently found in sunscreens in South America (20%) and North America (19.3%). The regional factors influencing the purchase of sunscreen products differed. A considerable number of sunscreens may not provide adequate sun protection for consumers. Dermatologists should recommend sunscreens with sufficient UV protection that suit the skin of individual consumers.

Formulation of a new broad-spectrum UVB + UVA and blue light SPF50+ sunscreen containing Phenylene Bis-Diphenyltriazine (TriAsorB), an innovative sun filter with unique optical properties.

Accumulating evidence from numerous comprehensive studies has demonstrated that blue light, in particular high-energy visible light, can exert a range of harmful effects on skin cells. These forms of radiation are now known to be able to trigger oxidation reactions, DNA damage, erythema and pigmentary changes, and may also be associated with photoaging. Sunscreens protecting the skin from only ultraviolet (UV)-B and UVA rays can therefore no longer be regarded as sufficient to help prevent skin damage from sunlight, and products containing filters that can provide broad-spectrum photoprotection are required. To meet this need, a new sunscreen formulation that provides photoprotection against solar radiation with wavelengths ranging from UV to visible light has been developed, using an innovative organic sun filter with unique optical properties: phenylene bis diphenyltriazine (TriAsorB™). This article outlines the development and characteristics of this innovative filter and describes new key results from studies performed to assess the effectiveness and safety of the filter and the new sunscreen product. The studies conducted so far demonstrate that the filter has a good human and environmental safety profile. In addition, the sunscreen, which contains TriAsorB in combination with three other UV filters to offer broad-spectrum sun protection with a high sun protection factor (SPF50+ ), appears to effectively prevent multiple forms of cellular photodamage, in particular blue light-induced oxidatively generated DNA lesions. Overall, the available data indicate that regular use of the TriAsorB-containing sunscreen could help prevent solar radiation-induced skin damage and the development of signs of premature skin aging, as well as photodermatoses caused or exacerbated by visible light.

Differential Occurrence of Cuticular Wax and Its Role in Leaf Physiological Mechanisms of Three Edible Aroids of Northeast India

The localization of cuticular wax (CW) on the leaf epidermis and its interaction with the physiological mechanisms of three edible aroids, Alocasia, Colocasia, and Xanthosoma, were assessed. CW in the leaf tissues was visualized using scanning electron microscopy, which was higher in Colocasia (10.61 mg·dm−2) and Xanthosoma (11.36 mg·dm−2) than in Alocasia (1.36 mg·dm−2). Colocasia CW exhibited superhydrophobic properties with a higher static contact angle (CA) (&gt;150°) than Xanthosoma (99.0°) and Alocasia (128.7°). The higher CW in Colocasia and Xanthosoma resulted in better leaf chlorophyll stability, moisture retention ability, and cellular membrane integrity compared to Alocasia. CW acted as a protecting barrier against deleterious solar radiation in terms of sun protection factor (SPF). The glossy appearance of wax crystals in the Alocasia leaf cuticles resulted in higher SPF. Overall, Colocasia CW highly influenced the qualitative and protective mechanisms of the leaf. Our study sheds light on the pivotal role of CW in the physiological properties of aroid leaves, which would be useful for the selection of wax-rich plants for augmenting future breeding strategies. The information would also be useful for further exploration of the industrial potential of superhydrophobic wax crystals obtained from edible aroids.

Melasma: The need for tailored photoprotection to improve clinical outcomes.

Melasma is a frequent photoexacerbated hyperpigmentary disorder, which can significantly impact on the quality of life. We sought to review the pathogenesis of melasma, and the role of photoprotection in the prevention and treatment of this disorder. We conducted a narrative review of the literature. We performed literature searches with PubMed from January 1990 to December 2021 using the keywords "melasma," "pathogenesis," "ultraviolet radiation," "visible light," "photoprotection," and "sunscreens." The physiopathology of melasma includes a complex interaction between genetics, sex hormones, and sun exposure. Visible light, in particular high-energy visible light (HEVL), and long-wave UVA (UVA1) play a key role in melasma pathophysiology, and recent research suggests that melasma shares many features with photoaging disorders. Melasma disproportionately affects dark-skinned individuals. Some 30% to 50% of South Americans and Asians, among other ethnicities, can present with melasma. Dark-skinned patients take fewer photoprotective measures. Also, the majority of melasma patients do not adequately follow photoprotection recommendations, including the application of sunscreen. Intensive use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen can prevent melasma in high-risk individuals, can lessen melasma severity (associated or not with depigmenting agents), and can reduce relapses. Due to the physiopathology of melasma, sunscreens should be broad-spectrum with high sun protection factor, and provide high protection against UVA1 and VL. Sunscreens should be cosmetically acceptable and leave no white residue. Tinted sunscreens are an excellent choice, as pigments can protect from HEVL and UVA1, and may provide camouflage, but they must offer colors that match the skin tone of each patient.

Antioxidant Activity, Sun Protection Activity, and Phytochemical Profile of Ethanolic Extracts of Daemonorops acehensis Resin and Its Phytosomes

Daemonorops (Indonesian: jernang) resin is one of Indonesia’s leading non-timber forest products and can be developed as a source of natural antioxidants and sun protection. This study aimed to select promising solvents for extracting a Daemonorops acehensis resin and phytosome formulation with high antioxidant capacities and sun protection factor (SPF) values. Jernang resin was extracted using a water–ethanol mixture in five different ratios. The promising extract was then mixed with soy lecithin in three different formulations. A promising extract and phytosome were then selected based on their antioxidant capacities and sun protection factor (SPF) values. A liquid chromatography mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis was also performed on five extracts to identify the components in the extracts that might be responsible for the biological activity. The results showed that the ethanol solvent variation and phytosome formulation influenced the antioxidant capacity and SPF value. A hundred-percent ethanolic extract and F1 phytosome exhibited the highest antioxidant capacities and SPF values. A qualitative analysis revealed the various classes of compounds in the extract and phytosome. A flavylium chromophore, dracorhodin, dominated the resin extract and was presumed to be the marker compound responsible for their antioxidant capabilities and SPF values. These findings are important for manufacturing sunscreens containing active compounds of bioactive natural resins.

Eye Cosmeceutical Formulations with Roasted Coffee Oil in Free and Microencapsulated Forms: Development and Preliminary Stability Study

AbstractThis research aims to develop eye cosmeceutical formulations with roasted coffee oil. Oil is used in form and microencapsulated forms. A preliminary stability study is performed, and base formulation (BF) is used for comparison. All formulations are stable and firm. Formulations with oil in free (OF) or microencapsulated (MOF) form show color and aroma of coffee. Initially, MOF is the most acid, and BF shows the highest peroxide value (PV) and the lowest sun protection factor (SPF) values and no antioxidant activity (AA). OF and MOF show AA and high SPF ; these parameters are little affected by storage, and an increase in PV is observed only for BF. Cosmeceutical formulations with roasted coffee oil present stability and good potential for dermocosmetic products.Practical Applications: Coffee oil is known for its AA and protection against sunlight UV radiation, so it fits the interest of cosmetics and personal care producers for bioactive ingredients from natural sources. The cosmetics industry uses green coffee oil; however, roasted coffee oil is of more interest since it is a coproduct of the soluble coffee industry. The authors are unaware of studies proposing the use of microcapsules (produced by complex coacervation) of roasted coffee oil in cosmeceutical formulations.

Natural sunscreen formulation with a high sun protection factor (SPF) from tengkawang butter and lignin

Sun protection agents from natural materials have a lower risk of side effects. This study evaluated the effect of lignosulfonate addition to increase the quality and SPF value of tengkawang butter. The sunscreen formulation is made with a mixture of tengkawang butter as the primary ingredient of sunscreen and lignosulfonate as a natural activating agent. Variations in lignosulfonate types (Ca-Lignosulfonate, Mg-Lignosulfonate, and Na-Lignosulfonate) and concentration (1%, 2.5%, 5%, and 10% w/w) were used in this study. The results show the addition of Ca, Mg, and Na-lignosulfonate has reduced the acidity of tengkawang butter from 4.795 ± 0.125 mg NaOH/g sample to 3.28 ± 0.13, 3.18 ± 0.28, and 2.39 ± 0.28 mg NaOH/g sample, respectively. The peroxide number of tengkawang butter was also reduced with the addition of Ca, Mg, and Na-lignosulfonate from 3.68 ± 0.73 meq O2/kg sample to 3.59 ± 0.62, 3.62 ± 0.67 and, 3.59 ± 0.52 meq O2 /kg sample, respectively. The results showed that adding 10% (w/w) Ca-lignosulfonate, Mg-lignosulfonate and Na-lignosulfonate increased the SPF value of tengkawang butter from 4.04 ± 0.12–13.12 ± 0.26 (224%), 13.05 ± 0.11 (223%), and 16.98 ± 0.95 (320%), respectively. The increase of SPF value has a relationship with the chromophore compounds in lignin. The results of this study can be used as a cosmetic formulation with high SPF to protect the skin from ultraviolet rays.

In vitro Assessment of Solar Filters for Erythropoietic Protoporphyria in the Action Spectrum of Protoporphyrin IX.

Introduction: Subjects with erythropoietic protoporphyria rely on broad-spectrum sunscreens with high sun protection factor, which is not informative on efficacy in the absorption spectrum of protoporphyrin IX, spanning visible radiation and peaking around 408 nm. Photoactivation of protoporphyrin IX is responsible for painful skin photosensitivity in erythropoietic protoporphyria.The authors assessed the protective efficacy of six sunscreens in vitro in the absorption spectrum of protoporphyrin IX.Method: Transmittance measurements were performed in the 300–850 nm wavelengths on samples of six photoprotective products applied to polymethyl methacrylate plates. Porphyrin protection factor was calculated in the 300–700 nm region to provide a measurement for the efficacy of each product based on the action spectrum of protoporphyrin IX.Results: Product A showed the highest porphyrin protection factor among tested products with a median value of 4.22. Product A is a sunscreen containing organic filters, titanium dioxide and synthetic iron oxides, pigmentary grade active ingredients that absorb visible radiation. Other products showed inefficient protection in the visible, with transmittance between 75 and 95% at 500 nm. The low porphyrin protection factor of inorganic filter product B was attributed to particle micronization, as declared by the manufacturer.Conclusion: Adding porphyrin protection factor to sunscreen labeling could help patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria and other photosensitivity disorders identify products tailored on their specific needs. The development of sunscreens providing protection from visible radiation and excellent cosmetical tolerability could improve the lifestyle of patients with erythropoietic protoporphyria.

Evaluation of toxicological aspects of three new benzoxazole compounds with sunscreen photophysical properties using in silico and in vitro methods

Sunscreening chemicals protect against damage caused by sunlight most absorbing UVA or UVB radiations. In this sense, 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole derivatives with amino substituents in the 4′ and 5′ positions have an outstandingly high Sun Protection Factor and adequate photostability, but their toxicity is not yet known. This study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of three synthetic 2-(2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazole derivatives for their possible application as sunscreens. In silico tools were used in order to assess potential risks regarding mutagenic, carcinogenic, and skin sensitizing potential. Bioassays were performed in L929 cells to assess cytotoxicity in MTT assay and genotoxic activities in the Comet assay and micronucleus test. Also, the Salmonella/microsome assay was performed to evaluate gene mutations. The in silico predictions indicate a low risk of mutagenicity and carcinogenicity of the compounds while the skin sensitizing potential was low or inconclusive. The 2-(4′-amino-2′-hydroxyphenyl)benzoxazol compound was the most cytotoxic and genotoxic among the compounds evaluated in L929 cells, but none induced mutations in the Salmonella/microsome assay. The amino substituted at the 4′ position of the phenyl ring appears to have greater toxicological risks than substituents at the 5′ position of 2-(phenyl)benzoxazole. The findings warrant further studies of these compounds in cosmetic formulations.

Intsia bijuga Heartwood Extract and Its Phytosome as Tyrosinase Inhibitor, Antioxidant, and Sun Protector

Intsia bijuga (Colebr.) wood (Indonesian: Merbau) is commercial wood with high economic value and is most commonly found in Indonesia. Intsia wood extractives have biological activities related to their potential as natural active ingredients for antiaging cosmetics This study aimed to select the best extraction solvent and phytosome formulation of I. bijuga heartwood extract as an active ingredient for topical antiaging cosmetics. There were five and three variations on extraction solvent and phytosome formulation, respectively. Three main antiaging activity parameters, namely antioxidant, antityrosinase, and sun protection factor (SPF) values, were considered in selecting the best extract and phytosome formula. The results showed that 50% ethanol possessed good antioxidant and antityrosinase activity, but was lower in SPF value, which was significantly different than in other extracts. The phytochemical profile revealed robidanol and robinetin as the main constituent in five I. bijuga extracts. Phytosome F3 possessed high antioxidant, antityrosinase, and SPF values compared to other 50% ethanol phytosome extracts. It could be concluded that I. bijuga ethanol extracts and its phytosome are potent enough to be developed as an antiaging active ingredient in topical use cosmetics.

Knowledge and behavior of Lebanese parents regarding melanoma prevention in public and private school children.

Aim:Assess the knowledge and behavior of Lebanese parents when it comes to melanoma and its prevention in children.Methods:A survey, to be completed by parents, was sent through children from three schools.Results:During sun exposure only 23.5% of 1012 respondents were always covering enough areas of their children's skin and 74.1% did not always apply sunscreen to their children. Parents of private school children were three times more likely to apply sunscreen to their children when exposed to sun, four times more likely to reapply sunscreen every 2–3 h and 21 times more likely to use a higher sun protection factor.Conclusion:Sun protection in children is insufficient and sunburns are frequent, illustrating the need for melanoma awareness campaigns.