Formulation and Evaluation of Seed Oils Against UV-Induced Skin Damage

Background: Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) are generated due to UV exposure. These interact with proteins, fatty acids, and DNA, resulting in oxidative damage and photoaging. Seed oils of muskmelon (MSO), watermelon (WSO), and pumpkin (PSO), known for their rich content of essential fatty acids, carotenoids, tocopherols, phenolics, and flavonoids, are underutilised for their antioxidant activity. Objective: The present study evaluated the emulgel formulation containing MSO, WSO, and PSO against UV-induced photoaging in an animal model. Materials and Methods: Physicochemical parameters were determined, and oleic acid was quantified as an analytical marker for fatty acids present in the oils, along with phenolics and flavonoids, which provide an added advantage to the functional properties of cold-pressed seed oils. Oils were evaluated for antioxidant properties using the DPPH assay. Further, an emulgel was formulated using Carbopol 934 as the base and screened for effectiveness against UV-induced photoaging in rats. Results: Using HPTLC, the methyl ester of fatty acid equivalent to oleic acid content was estimated, with WSO showing 48.95%, higher than MSO and PSO. The total phenolic content of MSO was 0.746 mg/g GAE, and the total flavonoid content was 0.416 ± 0.10 mg/g QAE, the highest among the three oils. The prepared formulation contained a mixture of all three oils in a 1:1:1 ratio (F1 (3%) and F2 (6%)). The emulgels were evaluated and showed antioxidant potential. The emulgel caused no skin rashes or erythema when applied to the dorsal surface of rat skin before UV exposure. Histopathological data and biochemical analysis suggest that the formulation has significant potential against photoaging. Discussion: These seeds are known for their health benefits and are commonly consumed as food or dietary supplements. The combination of cold-pressed seed oils in an emulgel helped inactivating ROS and restoring skin homeostasis. However, the stability and release profile require further investigation. Conclusion: It can be concluded that the emulgel containing the combined oils (F2) shows potential for further development as a skincare product.