Comparative Studies on Sun Protection Factor of Some Sunscreen Formulations Used in Cosmetics

The aim of this research was to determine sun protection factor (SPF) values of some sunscreen formulations used in cosmetics by ultraviolet spectrophotometer. Sun protection factor is a laboratory measure of the effectiveness of sunscreen, the higher the SPF, the more protection a sunscreen offers against the ultraviolet radiations causing sunburn. SPF is determined by spectrophotometric method reported by Mansur et al. Hydro alcoholic dilutions of oils were prepared and in vitro photo protective activity was studied by UV spectrophotometric method in the range of 290-320 nm. It was observed that the SPF values for cosmetic formulations were in between 13 and 16. Among the various sunscreen formulations SPF values were compared. The study is helpful in selection of sunscreens formulations used in cosmetics with better safety and high SPF values.