A Literature Review of Herbal Sunscreen’s Dosage Form and SPF Value Claim

Abstract

The Indonesian government recommended sunbathing for 15 to 30 minutes in the morning to deal with the Covid-19 pandemic. Exposure to sunlight will activate the formation of vitamin D, which the body needs for defense against Covid-19 infection. However, excessive sun exposure will cause skin problems, including psoriasis, sarcoidosis, sunburn to skin cancer. One of the protections against sun exposure is the use of sunscreen. Sunscreen protects the skin from UV exposure by two mechanisms, namely, absorbing UV rays or reflecting UV rays. Sunscreen has various dosage forms that are tailored to the needs of consumers. Several dosage forms are preferred because they are easy to use and can be used in groups of children. Sunscreen protection is stated using a photoprotector claim in the form of an SPF value or other claims that support the function of sunscreen. Although SPF has been used worldwide, there are several standard claims for the effectiveness of sunscreens in several countries, such as the broad spectrum and UVA-PA (PA+ to PA++++) claims.