Natural photoprotective agents that can prevent direct UV

The gap

Evidence profile

Stated in the limitations and future work and cells research gap sections of the source papers, classified as general, spanning 3 journals.

Supporting evidence — 3 representative gaps

• Anti-Aging Efficacy of Mangrove Leaf Extract Cream Assessed by SPF and Collagen Density Enhancement: In Vitro and In Vivo Approaches (2026) · Jurnal Ilmiah Medicamento · doi

  This study presents several limitations that warrant consideration. The formulated mangrove leaf extract cream exhibited a dark green coloration, which may reduce its aesthetic acceptability when applied to the skin. Therefore, further reformulation is required to obtain preparation with more acceptable visual characteristics. In addition, the SPF value in this study was assessed solely through in vitro testing, and thus its in vivo photoprotective efficacy has not yet been established. Moreover, advanced molecular analyses are necessary to elucidate the mechanistic effects of the mangrove leaf extract cream on UVB-exposed guinea pig skin, particularly regarding its potential role in modulating collagen synthesis, antioxidant pathways, and cellular responses to UVB-induced oxidative stress.

  generalstated in limitationsevidence 5/5
  Keywords: cream leaf extract writing mangrove protection review editing skin potential aging efficacy particularly regarding collagen
• A REVIEW ON HERBAL SUNSCREEN POTENTIAL OF TULSI (OCIMUM SANCTUM) & DURVA (CYNODON DACTYLON) (2026) · Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) · doi

  The growing awareness regarding the harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation and increasing demand for natural skincare products have created new opportunities for herbal sunscreen development. Recent advances in phytochemical research, nanotechnology, and cosmetic science have highlighted the potential of plant-derived photoprotective agents as safer alternatives to conventional sunscreen ingredients. Future research is expected to focus on improving formulation stability, enhancing SPF performance, increasing clinical validation, and developing environmentally sustainable sunscreen systems. These developments may contribute significantly to the commercialization and global acceptance of herbal sunscreen products.[15,19,24]  Nano-herbal sunscreen system a. Nano-herbal sunscreen systems represent one of the most promising advances in herbal photoprotection. The incorporation of medicinal plant extracts into nanoemulsions, nanoparticles, liposomes, and other nano-carrier systems can significantly improve the stability, bioavailability, and skin penetration of phytochemicals. These delivery systems protect sensitive bioactive compounds from degradation caused by environmental factors such as light, oxygen, and temperature, thereby maintaining their photoprotective activity for longer durations.[16,57,61,62,63] b. Nano-sized carriers also enhance the solubility and controlled release of antioxidant compounds such as flavonoids and polyphenols. Improved retention of these phytochemicals on the skin surface contributes to enhanced SPF values, prolonged antioxidant protection, and better photostability. In addition, nano-herbal formulations may improve cosmetic acceptability by reducing greasiness and providing a more uniform protective layer on the skin.[16,57,61,62,63] c. With continued advancements in nanotechnology, future herbal sunscreen formulations are expected to combine natural phytochemicals with sophisticated nano-delivery systems www.wjpr.net │ Vol 15, Issue 13, 2026. │ ISO 9001: 2015 Certified Journal │ 493 Simran et al. World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research to achieve superior efficacy, safety, and consumer acceptance.[16,57,61,62,63]  Combination herbal SPF boosters a. The use of combination herbal systems is another promising strategy for enhancing sunscreen efficacy. Medicinal plants contain diverse bioactive compounds that often exhibit complementary biological activities. Combining multiple plant extracts rich in flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and polyphenols may result in synergistic antioxidant and photoprotective effects.

  generalstated in future workevidence 5/5
  Keywords: herbal sunscreen systems nano compounds plant photoprotective skin phytochemicals antioxidant effects increasing natural products advances
• Antioxidant Activity and Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of Various Fractions of Ethanol Extract of Kelakai Roots (Stenochlaena palustris Bedd) (2026) · Medical Laboratory Technology Journal · doi

  There is a need for natural photoprotective agents that can prevent direct UV exposure and neutralize free radicals. - Prior studies have not investigated the antioxidant and SPF properties of Kelakai root extract.

  generalstated in cells research gapevidence 5/5
  Keywords: there need natural photoprotective agents prevent direct exposure

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