Assessment of the Photoprotective Activity of Lippia Species from Brazil and Their use as Single UV Filters in Sunscreens

Abstract

Objective: The present in vitro study aimed to evaluate the photoprotective activity of four plant species from Brazil. Material and Methods: Plants (Lippia brasiliensis, L. pseudothea, L. rotundifolia and L. rubella) were collected in Minas Gerais state, Brazil, and ethanolic extracts were obtained. These were incorporated in neutral lotions and their SPF, UVAPF, UVA/ UVB Ratio and Critical Wavelength were determined by diffuse transmittance spectroscopy. Results: The best results were obtained with L. brasiliensis. It was demonstrated that this species generated an estimated in vitro SPF of 9 ± 1.0, and an effective UVAPF of 8 ± 0.7, at 15% in a neutral lotion. Conclusion: Broad spectrum sunscreens were obtained when all of four species were used as single UV filter in the sunscreens formulations, although L. brasiliensis presented the best UVA/UVB balance.