INVITRO EVALUATION OF SUN PROTECTION FACTOR OF POMELO PEEL EXTRACT BY USING UV SPECTROPHOTOMETER
Baiju Mathews*, Ujala Pareek and Bismina Bijili
ABSTRACT
The adverse effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as skin cancer, premature aging, and immune suppression, underscore the necessity for effective sun protection. While synthetic sunscreens are widely used, concerns about their environmental impact and potential health risks have led to an increased demand for natural alternatives. This study evaluates the potential of pomelo (Citrus maxima) peel extract, a byproduct of citrus processing, as a natural sunscreen ingredient. Pomelo peel is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and polyphenols, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making them suitable for UV protection. In this research, bioactive compounds were extracted from dried pomelo peels using the Soxhlet extraction method with ethanol as the solvent. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of the extract was determined using UV spectrophotometry, measuring absorbance within the 290–320 nm wavelength range. The SPF value was calculated using the Mansur equation, which incorporates the erythemal effect spectrum, solar intensity spectrum, and the extract’s absorbance data. Based on SPF classification, the results indicate varying degrees of UV protection: mild (SPF 4– 10), moderate (SPF 15–25), and high (SPF 30–40). These findings highlight the potential of pomelo peel extract as a sustainable and eco-friendly sunscreen ingredient. The study contributes to the development of natural skincare formulations that provide effective UV protection while promoting environmental sustainability and reducing citrus processing waste.
Keywords: Ultraviolet (UV) protection, Pomelo (Citrus maxima) peel, Soxhlet extraction, Sun Protection Factor (SPF), UV spectrophotometry, Mansur equation.
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