DEVELOPMENT OF A PLANT EXTRACT-BASED SUNSCREEN FORMULATION

This research work aimed to develop a plant extract-based sunscreen formulation, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 14 (Life Below Water). In order to achieve this objective: 1) two botanical species, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and green tea (Camellia sinensis), were selected for their high antioxidant potential, alongside physical mineral filters (zinc oxide and titanium dioxide) and specific excipients chosen after an extensive literature review; 2) the active compounds were extracted from tomato using Soxhlet extraction with hexane and from green tea via ethanolic maceration, confirming their functional groups through Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR); 3) the cosmetic formulation was developed and adjusted to achieve the desired texture, application, skin finish, and pH; and 4) the final product was thoroughly characterized through physicochemical (pH, density, droplet size, centrifugation, viscosity, thermal stress), microbiological (total coliforms, aerobic mesophiles, molds, and yeasts considering the COVENIN 2130:1998 standard), and sensory tests. Additionally, an in vivo efficacy test was conducted to determine its overall protective capacity. As relevant results, a highly stable emulsion was obtained, exhibiting physicochemical (pH: 6.85; density: 1.062 g/mL; viscosity: 5,263 mPa·s) and microbiological properties well within established ranges, clear evidence of in vivo protective efficacy, and excellent sensory acceptance.