Harnessing South Africa’s indigenous flora for natural sunscreens: A review of phytochemical potential, challenges and climate change

• South Africa faces some of the world’s highest ultraviolet radiation levels. • Indigenous flora provides eco-friendly sunscreen potential. • Indigenous plants show SPF values of 2 - 25. • Climate change threatens plant supply and efficacy. • Conservation, knowledge preservation, and regulation are key. South Africa is exposed to some of the highest levels of ultraviolet radiation (UVR) in the world, which significantly increases the risk of skin cancer, premature skin aging and other sun-induced dermatological conditions. This makes the widespread use of sunscreen a critical public-health measure. This review explores the potential of indigenous South African plants as natural, sustainable alternatives to synthetic sunscreens. Plants such as Cassipourea flanaganii, Buddleja saligna and Cyclopia intermedia (honeybush) contain photoprotective phytochemicals (including flavonoids, carotenoids and phenolic acids) that offer ultraviolet (UV) absorption, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. This review indicates that South African plants have sun protection factor (SPF) values ranging from 2 to 25, which demonstrate their efficacy as eco-friendly sunscreen ingredients. Natural sunscreens derived from South African flora align with global environmental and health trends, offering sustainable alternatives to synthetic UV filters that have raised concerns about safety and environmental impact. Yet, despite their potential, challenges such as climate change, habitat degradation and unsustainable harvesting threaten these medicinal plants. Rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns may alter their phytochemical composition, reducing UV-protective properties. Additionally, the lack of standardised extraction methods and documented traditional knowledge hinders large-scale application. Conservation efforts, sustainable cultivation and collaborative research between scientists and indigenous communities are essential to preserve these resources. Future research should focus on optimising formulations, assessing long-term stability and evaluating bioavailability to ensure commercial viability. By leveraging its rich biodiversity, South Africa can develop innovative sun protection solutions that address public-health needs while promoting ecological sustainability. This paper highlights the urgent need for interdisciplinary approaches to harness indigenous plant potential in combating rising UV-induced skin diseases amid a changing climate.