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A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review

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 ISSN 0975-2366
DOI:https://doi.org/10.31838/ijpr/2021.13.01.524
Review Article

A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen

Agents: A Review
DEVANJALI BHATTACHARJEE , PREETHI S*, AMIT B PATIL ,VIKAS JAIN
Department of Pharmaceutics, Industrial Pharmacy JSS College of Pharmacy, Sri Shivarathreeswara
Nagara, Mysuru, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mysuru – 570015 Karnataka, India.
*Corresponding Author
Email:preethis@jssuni.edu.in
Received:10.08.20, Revised: 04.09.20, Accepted: 02.10.20

ABSTRACT:
Sunscreen Agents protect the skin from Ultraviolet (UV) rays by absorption, scattering and by blocking
phenomena. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are divided into three wavelengths UV-A,UV-B and UV-C in which UV-B
causes sunburn by affecting the epidermis layer. Active Ingredient of Sunscreen Agents is Synthetic Product
which is divided into Organic and Inorganic filters which is used in market. Organic filters have subtypes among
which Benzophenone and PABA derivative have some serious side effects, to overcome this deleterious effects
Natural Sunscreen came into existence. Natural products are efficacious as Sunscreen same as that of the
product which is present in the market. Different formulations of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen are
discussed to know the efficacy of Sunscreen formulation. Market comparison of both the products are done
and their marketing products are mentioned. Regulatory guidelines of countries are discussed for the safety
and efficacy of Sunscreen product available in the market and Testing procedures is also mentioned. Sunscreen
patents are discussed to know about innovations done in cosmetic field even clinical trials of different
formulations is done to know the safety and efficacy of the product before launching into the market.
Keywords: Skin, Sunscreen, Organic filters, Natural Products, Inorganic filters.

INTRODUCTION: functions are different from one another It mainly

Sunscreens are those agents which absorbs,
scatter or block UV radiation. [1] It controls the
deleterious effects like premature aging which can
lead to sagging, wrinkling, hyperplasia associated
with UV radiation. [2] The active ingredients used
in Sunscreen preparation are divided into
Organic and Inorganic filters based on the
mechanism of action and chemical
composition.[3]Organic filters absorb the UV
radiation while Inorganic filters protect skin by
scattering and reflecting UV radiation.[4]This
agents are found as over-the-counter products in
supermarkets and pharmacies, even it is sold by
physicians in USA directly, in Italy by hospitals
and in Australia by Cancer charities and Cancer
control Organisation.[5]
The largest organ of the body is skin which covers
15% of the total body mass of an adult.[6]
Integument is an outer covering of skin which is
derived from the Latin word integere. [7]The skin
not only varies from one individual to other but it
varies because of the geographical location and
with respect to colour, texture, thickness of the
skin layers and adrenal structures like sweat
glands, sebaceous glands, hair follicles.[8]Skin
structure consists of mainly three layers: (a)
Epidermis, (b) Dermis, (c) Hypodermis and their
protects from pathogens, UV light, chemicals and
injury because of its structure made up of intricate
network which acts as a barrier. It also regulates
the temperature and amount of water released
into the external environment.[9]
Sunlight is an electromagnetic radiation of
continuous spectrum which is divided into three
main spectrum of wavelength: (a) Ultraviolet, (b)
Visible, (c) Infrared.[10]Ultraviolet (UV) radiation
is further divided into three ranges: (a) UV-A
(320-400 nm), (b) UV-B (280-320 nm), (c) UV-C
(200-280 nm) among which UV-A has highest
wavelength and less energy, UV-C has high
energy and shorter wavelength while UV-B
remains in the mid-range. [11]Around 80-90% of
UV-A and 1-10% of UV-B reach the earth’s
surface while UV-C gets absorbed to earth’s
atmosphere .[12]UV-A can penetrate to deeper
layer of dermis and it can damage DNA by
indirect photosensitizing reaction by production of
reactive oxygen species. UV-B is reaches to
epidermis layer and it is absorbed by DNA which
results in molecular rearrangements forming
photoproducts like cyclobutene dimers and
pyrimidine (6-4) pyrimidine (6-4 photoproducts)
as shown in Figure 1 and UV-C gets absorbed to
ozone layer of earth’s stratosphere .[13] [14]UV

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 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review

exposure is a main reason for age related part of body. [15]To overcome this problem
changes such as development of skin cancer Sunscreen Agents are used.
because of skin’s anatomic location at external

Fig.1:Anatomy of skin layers and showing penetration of UVA and UVB radiation into skin layers

Ideal properties of Sunscreen products:  For effective results, frequent re-application of

 Sunscreen should absorb a broad range of
UV spectrum for protecting the skin from UV
rays.
 There should be no chemical breakdown
which will result into decrease in efficacy or
increased toxicity or irritation because of by-
products.
 It should have suitable properties while
formulating with cosmetic base and it should
penetrate the skin easily.
 It should not get removed by water or
perspiration.
sunscreens should not be required.
 At low concentration, it should be effective.
 It should not cause irritation, sensitization and
toxicity to the skin.[16]
Classification of Sunscreen:
Classification of sunscreen agents is based on the
composition and mechanism of action is shown in
Figure 2 . Sunscreen agents works by different
method by blocking, reflecting and scattering the
UV radiation.[17]

Fig.2:Classification of Sunscreen

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 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review
Synthetic Sunscreen:
Synthetic Sunscreen contains Organic and
Inorganic filters. Chemical sunscreen are physical
blockers which reflect or scatter UV rays and it
also absorbs high energy UV rays. Organic
compounds protects against a range of UV ray
spectrum which is included with chemical
sunscreen. By spreading the microparticles of
inorganic compound on epidermis which is upper
layer of skin increases the optical path of photons
which results in absorption of photons in high
amount by increasing the Sun Protection Factor
(SPF) ultimately increases the efficacy of
compound.[17] [18][19]
Organic filters:
Organic filters are those ingredients which will
absorb specific wavelength of UV radiation
depending on their chemical structure. The filter
which is in low energy level converts to high
energy level.(16) From this high-energy level, one
of the following three processes can occur
depending on the filter's ability to process the
energy it has absorbed:
i. Photostable filter: This filter form
dissipates the absorbed energy as heat
energy to the atmosphere and returns to
the low-energy level (ground state). It is
efficient at reabsorbing UV energy.
ii. Photo-unstable filter: Upon absorption of
UV energy, a change in its chemical
structure or degradation occurs. It cannot
consume UV energy again.
iii. Photoreactive filter: The filter interacts
with neighbouring molecules in its excited
state, including other ingredients of
proteins and lipids from sunscreen,
oxygen, and hair. This leads to reactive
species being generated that may have
undesirable biological effects.[20]
Types of Organic filters:
Dibenzoylmethane Derivatives: This derivatives
contains high absorption capacity in UV-A region
but as it decomposes in presence of sunlight
irradiation which will decrease the efficiency of
sun protection at the time of UV exposure.
Photofragmentation of this derivatives occur which
will lead to formation of free radicals which will
cause skin damage.[21]
Benzophenone Derivatives: This derivative
absorb or dissipate Ultraviolet radiation mainly
UV-A. Matsumoto et al., 2003 reported cytotoxic
effects in this derivatives. [22]
Para-Aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and its
derivatives: This derivative absorbs UV-B
radiation. It is soluble in 70% alcohol at
concentration of 2-5%, as it penetrates into the
3496| International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research | Jan - Mar 2021 | Vol 13 | Issue 1
deeper layer of dermis due to which it retain for
longer time in skin. [23] Photoallergic reactions
occur due to PABA. [24]
Salicylate Derivatives: This derivatives weak
absorbers of UV-B radiation. They are used to
minimize the photodegradation of other
photoprotectants. [25]
Benzotriazoles: Mexoryl SX is a photostable
broad spectrum filter having effective sun
protection ability. It decreases the events of
photoaging, photosensitivity reaction and Mexoryl
SX is a trademark of L’Oreal. [26]
Inorganic filters:
Inorganic filter scatter and reflect back UV rays to
the external environment. It acts as a physical
barrier for UV radiation. This filters are
considered to be broad spectrum as it covers the
entire UV range. Common inorganic filter are
Titanium dioxide and Zinc oxide. [27]
Different formulations of Synthetic material:
Nanotechnology based formulation are better
than Pharmaceutical formulation as it is elegant
and effective. Nano-capsules based cosmetic
product was launched by L’Oreal for getting
effective results of the cosmetics and for the
growth in market.[28] Solid lipid nanoparticles
are used because it has controlled release
property, enhanced skin permeation and toxicity
level is less. Nano lipid carrier is having high
loading capacity and having long term stability.
[29]
Nano Lipid Carrier (NLC)
In Nano lipid carrier the drug is incorporated into
the mixture which have ratio of solid lipids and
liquid lipids and it is designed in such a way that
it does not form crystals which is a drawback in
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles. [30]Rania et al
prepared the oxybenzone loaded NLC which was
formulated as gel and reported increase in six to
eight times in vitro SPF and erythemal UVA
protection than the free oxybenzone formulation.
It has low potential side effect of skin irritation.
[31]
Nano-capsules
Nano-capsules are nanoparticles which are
hollow spheres with diameter of less than 200
nm. It can be filled with either polar or non-polar
solvent.[32] Alvarez et al prepared nano-capsules
of Octyl methoxycinnamate with biodegradable
polymer and reported that Octyl
methoxycinnamate loaded nano-capsules provide
protection against UVA induced erythema better
than a conventional gel.[33]
Nanoparticles
Nanoparticles are those particles whose size
range is 1-100 nm and it is one-dimension
 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review
structure .[34] Marcela et al prepared a new
sunscreen formulation by encapsulating zinc
oxide nanoparticles and octocrylene in poly-
styrene-co-methyl methacrylate (PMMA/PS)
nanoparticles via mini-emulsion polymerization,
PMMA nanoparticles were incorporated in the gel
. He reported that gel containing PMMA
nanoparticles was having Sun Protection Factor
(SPF) greater than 30. [35]
Nanosuspension
Nanosuspension is a sub-micron colloidal
dispersion having particle size below1µm and
which is stabilised by surfactant .[36] Villalobos et
al prepared nanosuspension of carnauba wax
and titanium dioxide which is distributed to
aqueous phase and lipid phase. He reported that
SPF value of titanium dioxide nanosuspension
distributed in liquid phase is higher than that of
aqueous phase. [37]
Problems encountered with usage of Synthetic
material:
 As Organic filters absorbs UV radiation due
to which photodegradation and generation of
Natural Products as Sunscreen:
Table 1: List of Natural Sunscreen Products
Natural Sunscreen, Biological Source
Aloe Vera, Aloe barbadensis (41)
Rambutan, Nephelium lappaceum (44)
Propolis, Apis mellifera (47)
Black Tea, Camelia sinensis (50)
Curcumin, Curcuma longa (53)
Pomegranate, Punica granatum (56)
Grape, Vitis vinifera (59)
Tomato, Solanum lycopersicum (62)
Ginkgo, Ginkgo biloba (65)
Avocado, Persea americana(68)
Natural products are produced by living
organisms as a secondary metabolite which is
found in nature. Living organisms which are
exposed to UV radiation have a numerous photo-
adaptive mechanisms which will include
antioxidant and UV-absorbing property.[40]
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free radicals occur which will lead to skin
damage.
 Para Amino benzoic acid shows photoallergic
reactions and photosensitivity reactions on
skin.
 Serpone et al reported that Inorganic filters,
photoactivation of metal oxides by UV
radiation can lead to generation of reactive
oxygen species which can be cytotoxic and
genotoxic.
 Lai et al reported that exposure of Titanium
dioxide micro or nanoparticles can cause cell
death in human neural cells and fibroblasts.
 Deng et al; Nohynek et al reported that zinc
oxide nanoparticles can cause neural stem
cell apoptosis but the toxic effect is related to
chemistry of the structure rather than particle
size of the preparation.[38]
 Pan et al reported that Titanium dioxide
nanoparticles having particle size of
(15±3.5nm) pass through the cell membrane
and damages the function of dermal
fibroblast culture.[39]
Geographical Source Part of plant
East and South Africa (42) Leaves (43)
Southeast Asia like Malaysia, Peel of fruit (46)
Indonesia, Thailand (45)
Europe, North America, non- Resins obtained from different
topical regions of parts of plants (49)
Asia (48)
Asia, Africa, South America Leaves (52)
(51)
India, China, Pakistan, East Rhizomes (55)
Indies (54)
Mediterranean basin, America, Fruits, peel(58)
Australia, South Africa, Asia
(57)
South America (60) Seeds (61)
Central Asia, Mediterranean Fruit (64)
Basin(63)
China, Japan (66) Leaves (67)
Mexico, South Africa, Brazil Seeds (70)
(69)
Sources of Natural Sunscreen products:
List of Natural products which are used in
preparation of Sunscreen formulation and are
listed in Table 1:
 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review
Different formulations of Natural Sunscreen
products:
Nano-formulations are used because of its high
entrapment efficiency and increased skin
permeability. Curcumin have high stability and
solubility after preparing liposomes which
ultimately increases bioavailability. Phytosomes of
Liquorice has increased the skin permeation and
retention time. Solid lipid Nanoparticles of
Luteolin give slow release kinetics rather than
spillage of whole drug from the transdermal
patch.[41]
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN) :
Solid Lipid Nanoparticles comprises of lipid which
is dispersed in water or in aqueous surfactant
solution. It is a sub-micron colloidal carrier in the
size range of 50-100 nm [42]. Solid Lipid
nanoparticle of Aloe vera was prepared by micro-
emulsification technique. Lavita et al reported that
the in vitro SPF of Aloe vera
loaded SLN was found to be 16.9± 2.44 and in
vivo SPF was found to be 14.81±3.81
respectively. SLN loaded with Aloe vera was
incorporated into a cream and SPF of resultant
sunscreen cream is equal to the SPF of Sunscreen
product available in market [43].
Nano-emulsion:
Nano-emulsion are submicron emulsion in nano
size range. [44]It comprises of two immiscible
liquids like water and oil which is stabilized by
surfactant and co-surfactant, reducing the
interfacial tension. This are isotropic dispersion
which is thermodynamically and kinetically stable.
[45]Nano-emulsion of Rambutan was prepared
which is incorporated in gel. Muhtadi et al
reported that SPF of Rambutan nano-emulsion
gel was found to be 13.120±0.001.[46]
Phytosomes:
Phytosome word is derived from “Phyto” means
“plant” and “some” means “cell like”.[47] In this
plant extract is loaded into phospholipid to make
lipid compatible molecular complexes. It is
patented by the nutraceuticals and leading
manufacturer of drug. Andi et al reported that
hydrogel containing Propolis phytosome had an
ability to absorb UV-A and UV-B, SPF value was
found to be higher than 15. [48]
Niosomes:
Niosomes is a bilayer vesicular structure of non-
ionic surfactant which will enclose the aqueous
solution of solutes and lipophilic component in
the bilayer. The bilayer structure can be
unilamellar or multilamellar. [49]Meng et al
reported that major compounds of Black Tea
Extract (BTE) were caffeine and gallic acid.
Niosomes of BTE was prepared which is
administered through transdermal delivery system
3498| International Journal of Pharmaceutical Research | Jan - Mar 2021 | Vol 13 | Issue 1
and transdermal absorption rate of caffeine and
gallic acid was high.[50]
Liposomes:
Liposomes are small vesicular structure composed
of cholesterol and natural non-toxic
phospholipids. The size range is 0.025µm to
2.5µm.[51]Haiyang et al reported that the skin
permeation of Quercetin liposomes was 3.8 times
higher than Quercetin suspension. It shows cell
viability of UV-B irradiated HaCat cells increased
to 89.89±4.5% for 24 hours and 78.8±3.19%
for 48 hours.[52]
Merits of Natural Sunscreen over Synthetic
Sunscreen:
 Natural Sunscreen are used instead of
Synthetic Sunscreen like oxybenzone and
octinoxate in Hawaii, Key West and US Virgin
Islands because Synthetic Sunscreen causes
bleaching of coral reefs. [53]
 Synthetic sunscreen affects the human skin by
inducing Reactive Oxygen Species, natural
antioxidants like alpha carotene, ascorbic
acid, flavones have capability of donating
electrons and cease free radical chain
reaction.[54]
 Natural Sunscreen protects the skin from
early maturing and it keeps the skin smooth
and energetic. [55]
 Natural sunscreen are cheaper than Synthetic
Sunscreen and they are easily available. [56]
 They are compatible with all skin types. [56]
Market of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen:
Global Sunscreen cream market will be around
USD 8279.9 million by 2026 from USD 6098
million in 2020 at a Compound Annual Growth
Rate of 5.2% during 2021-2026. Europe, North
America and China are top countries which have
consumption share of 24.9%, 22.6% and 20.4%
in 2019. Estee Lauder, L’Oreal, Johnson and
Johnson, Shiseido are the companies which is
dominating the Sunscreen market.[57]Sunscreen
protection market in India have recorded CAGR
of 12.01% in time duration of 2013-2018 with a
sales of INR 4945.23 million in 2018, an
increase of 10.25% over 2017. [58]Market of
Global Herbal Skincare from 2019-2024 was
around USD 2.31 billion by the end of 2024 and
growth rate was 5.6%.[59] According to Indian
sunscreen Market sheet, Over-the-counter
Sunscreen market was around INR 245 crore and
Prescription Sunscreen market was around INR
138 crore. As part of total Sunscreen market,
Over-the-counter sunscreen market was
dominating the overall Sunscreen market by 75%
.[60]Marketed product of Natural and Synthetic
Sunscreen is listed in Table 2.
 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review

Table 2: Marketed Products of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen

Marketed Product Active Pharmaceutical Formulation Benefits Name of
Ingredient (API) Company
Synthetic Sunscreen
Rosy Tone Broad  Avobenzone-3% Cream  Anti- aging L’Oreal Paris ()
Spectrum SPF 30  Homosalate-2.7%  Keeps skin hydrated
Sunscreen (48 g)  Octisalate-5%
 Octocrylene-7%
Protect and  Octocrylene Lotion  Protection against Nivea ()
Moisture Sun  Butyl UV-A and UV-B.
Lotion-SPF 50 (125 Methoxydibenzoylmeth  Sun and Collagen
ml) ane Protection.
 Moisturising.
Sheer Zinc Face Zinc oxide (21.6%) Lotion  Protect against UV- Neutrogena ()
Dry- Touch A and UV-B rays.
Sunscreen Broad  Water resistant.
Spectrum SPF 50  Non- Comedogenic
(59 ml)
Sunforgettable total  Zinc oxide (22.5%) Brush-on  Water resistant. Colorescience
Protection Brush-On  Titanium Dioxide  Provide protection ()
Shield SPF 50 (22.5%) against UV-A and
UV-B rays.

Natural Sunscreen
Age Prevention SPF Sacred Lotus Cream  Protect against UV- Mitchell USA ()
45 Anti-aging A and UV-B rays.
Moisturizing  Waterproof and
Sunscreen (50 ml) Sweatproof.
 Replaces lost
moisture.
 Maintain skin tone.
Mamaearth  Aloe Vera Hydragel  Protect against UV- Honasa
Hydragel Indian  Raspberry A and UV-B rays. Consumer Pvt
Sunscreen (50 g)  Glycerine  Provides hydration. Ltd ()
 Gives natural glow
to skin.
 Suitable for all skin
types.
Bio Sandalwood Sandalwood Lotion Protect against UV rays. Biotique
Sunscreen Lotion Ashwagandha Retains moisture in skin. Advanced
(120 ml) Arjun Ayurveda ()
Honey
SPF 40+ Sunscreen Jojoba oil Spray lotion Protect skin from UV-A and Greenberry
Spray Lotion Argan oil UV-B rays. Organics ()
PA+++ UVA/UVB Shea butter Intense Moisturisation and
Protection (120 ml) Hydration.
Reduces Sun burn and Tan.
Reduces Wrinkles and Fine
lines.

Patents of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen: filing, name of patentee and patent inference. List
There is a brief information on Sunscreen patents of Patents are given in Table 3.
including patent application number, date of

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 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review

Table 3: Patent list of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen

Date of Filing and Name of Patent Patentee Inference
Application Number
I. Synthetic Sunscreen
Oct 27, 2020 Memory shape Faig et al Memory-shape skin-care
US 10,813,875 B2 sunscreen composition includes
composition avobenzone, octocrylene
and homosalate. It
contains memory-shape
material which includes
a polyethylene
glycol/hexamethylene
diisocyanate co-polymer.
(99)
Sep 10, 2020 Microcapsules Goldstein et Microcapsules contains
US 2020/0281827 comprising al one or more sunscreen
A1 sunscreen agents agents and the shell of
microcapsules is non-
rupturable. (100)
Nov 1, 2018 Sprayable Lu et al At least Hydrophobic
US 2018 / 0311122 sunscreen and Hydrophilic UV-
A1 composition with oil screening agents are
beads used. (101)

Natural Sunscreen
Mar 19,2020 Sunscreen Hwang et al In this sunscreen
US 2020/0085724 Compositions With formulation is water
A1 Natural Waxes For resistance by the use of
Improved Water Natural waxes. (102)
Resistance

June 16, 2015 Natural sunscreen Hanson et al Natural extracts, oils are
US 9,056,063 B2 composition used as sunscreen
enhancers for Synthetic
Sunscreen. It also protect
form harmful effects of
UV rays. (102)
Feb 10, 1998 Insect repellent Uick et al Sunscreen formulation
US5716602A sunscreen which include water
resistance agent and an
insect repellent. (103)

Regulatory aspects of Sunscreen: effective to use in Sunscreen while PABA and

Regulatory guidelines are present to maintain the
safety and toxicity of the Sunscreen formulation.
Different countries have different guidelines for
Sunscreen but the ultimate goal is to protect the
skin from harmful UV rays.
United States Food and Drug Administration
(USFDA) guidelines:
 USFDA proposed new regulations for
ensuring the safety and efficacy of Sunscreen
formulation in 2019. It suggested that out of
16 ingredients which are currently in the
market, among them two ingredients- Zinc
oxide and Titanium dioxide are safe and
trolamine salicylate are not to be used in
Sunscreen because of safety issues. Due to
lack of safety data, 12 ingredients are not
getting approval from FDA to be used in
Sunscreen and FDA is seeking more data to
evaluate safety and efficacy.
 Creams, gels, lotions, ointments, oils, sprays
are safe and effective as a sunscreen while
powders are eligible to be included in
monograph but more data is required for
inclusion in monograph.
 Sunscreen with SPF value 15 or more than 15
should provide broad spectrum protection

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 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review

and increase in SPF will provide protection
against UVA.
 New Sunscreen product labelling requires
addition of active ingredients in front of
package and an alert should be there for
“Skin cancer/ Skin aging” for Sunscreen
having SPF less than 15.
 Sunscreen products in combination with insect
repellent are not safe and effective.[61]
European guidelines:
Manufacturers voluntarily comply with a
recommendation that all sunscreen product
should give protection against UVA at least one-
third as strong as SPF. SPF is the measure of
products ability to give protection against UVB
which will burn the skin (European Commission
2006, COLIPA 2009). [62]
Indian guidelines:
Indian Drug and Cosmetic Act (1940) amended
that sunscreen should be considered as a
cosmetic. Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) which
is a member of ISO (International Organization
for Standardization) set standards for relevant
cosmetic products. Stability data is mandatory
and there is no SPF rating for Sunscreens. [63]
ASEAN guidelines: [64]
The testing procedures for Sunscreen are given by
ISO to ASEAN member countries which will export
their products in other countries. List of testing
procedures are given in Table 4.

Table 4: Testing Procedure according to ASEAN guidelines

Testing Procedures Countries
SPF test – in vivo China, Korea, Australia, USA, New Zealand,
Canada and Europe.
UVA – PPD Testing Japan
UVAPF in vitro testing Australia, New Zealand

Clinical trials:
Clinical trials are done to assess the safety and trials are done in healthy adult humans.[65]
efficacy of the sunscreen product. According to Clinical trials done on Sunscreen products listed
Food and Drug Administration (FDA), clinical in Table 5.

Table 5: Clinical trials of Synthetic and Natural Sunscreen

REGISTRATION NUMBER TRIAL STUDY PROTOCOL PHASE TRIAL COUNTRY
CTRI/2012/08/002910 Interventional Effect of Neutrogena ® NA India(109)
sunscreen with pigments that
absorb visible light in
combination with night
regimen in reduction of facial
hyper pigmentation
CTRI/2013/07/003813 Interventional Evaluate safety of La shield NA India(109)
Lite Sunscreen Gel SPF 40
CTRI/2018/02/011922 Interventional Testing of Sunscreen creams NA India(109)
CTRI/2020/09/027895 Interventional Assessment of Varnya Lepa Phase 1/ Phase 2 India(109)
Sunscreen lotion
NCT01021787 Intervention To determine penetration of Phase 4 Canada (110)
Titanium dioxide via human
skin
NCT02857478 Intervention To assess the safety of NA USA(111)
sunscreen product for sport
users
NCT00549588 Intervention Efficacy of Sunscreen SPF 30 NA Austria(112)
and after sun lotion in
prevention of Polymorphic
Light Eruption
NCT00711256 Intervention To study persistence of Sun NA Denmark(113)
Protection Factor and
influence of Vitamin D on
Sunscreen

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 Devanjali Bhattacharjee et al/ A comparison of Natural and Synthetic Sunscreen Agents: A Review
Future Perspective:
Sunscreen is used to protect the skin from the
detrimental effect of UV rays. There are new 3.
technologies for the preparation of sunscreen in
upcoming years. The future of Sun Protection is
getting smarter as new developments involves UV
skin patch which will detect UV exposure on skin 4.
as the patch contains photosensitive blue dye
which changes colour when exposed to UV rays.
[66]Zebrafish and other animals produce a
material called gadusol which protect them from
UV rays by expressing the right genes in yeast
5.
there is a way to create of ingestible sunscreen.
[67]DNA films are to be created by the
researchers as UV rays damage the DNA, the 6.
ultimate goal is to protect body’s DNA by giving
topical layer of DNA to
damage.[68]Cyanobacteria was found to be an
safer alternative for synthetic product used in Sun
Protection currently. [69]
7.
CONCLUSION:
From this we can conclude that Sunscreen made
up of natural products are better than the
formulation made up of Synthetic products. The
exposure of Ultraviolet rays damages the skin 8.
function in which UV-B affects the upper layer of
skin causing Sunburn, to treat this skin disease
Sunscreen agents are used. Synthetic Products
present in formulations are effective but they are
having side effects like endometriosis, cytotoxicity,
genotoxicity. To overcome this problem Natural 9.
Products are used as a Sunscreen which has
minimal side effects and it is efficacious as
Synthetic Product. 10.
Conflict of Interest:
The Author have no conflict of interest to declare.
Acknowledgement
Authors are thankful to JSS Academy of Higher 11.
Education and Research, Department of
Pharmaceutics, Industrial Pharmacy, Jss College
of Pharmacy, Mysuru-570015, Karnataka, India.
Source of Funding: 12.
NIL
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