Investigation of Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of Raspberry Seed Oil, Niacinamide and Zinc Oxide in Combination for their Possible Use in a Sunscreen Formulation

Introduction: The Ultra Violet (UV) radiations emitted from the sun have several negative effects on the skin of humans. Some of the harmful effects of the UV rays are redness, skin inflammation, rashes, sunburn, wrinkles, photoaging and skin cancer. It is very important to block or reflect UV rays due to the rising cases of skin cancers secondary to UV damage. Sunscreens are presently one of the preferred and predominant modes of sun protection and must be broad spectrum to be able to block both Ultraviolet A (UVA) and Ultraviolet B (UVB). Objectives: The primary objective of our project is to assess the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of a combination of three active ingredients: Zinc Oxide (ZnO), Niacinamide, and Raspberry Seed Oil (RSO). Methods: Seven samples were prepared, where sample 1 - 6 contains different combinations of these three active ingredients and sample 7 which contains only RSO (10%). The SPF of the seven samples was measured according to the standard procedure using an UV-Visible spectrophotometer. The SPF values were then calculated using the Mansur equation. Results: The result revealed that the SPF of the formulation were below 30 therefore average photoprotective activity was observed. Conclusions: It can be concluded that the formulations were not able to provide sufficient protection from the UV rays.