Development and evaluation of sun protection factor of emulsion containing extract rich in flavonoids

Abstract

Sunscreen usage is necessary to avoid skin diseases, specially skin cancer, besides preventing premature skin aging. The aim of this study is to evaluate the potential of sun protection factor of extract containing flavonoids in order to be incorporated in topical formulation. For this, four vegetal species (Dirmophandra mollis Benth, Ginkgo biloba L., Ruta graveolens L. and Vitis vinífera L.) were used at work to obtain extract rich in flavonoids. The extracts obtained for each species and the extract containing all of them, named Mix, were submitted to the following assays: flavonoids identification; rutin and quercetin quantification by high performance liquid chromatography; in vitro citotoxity; sun protect factor and antioxidant efficacy, both in vitro. After to realize these assays, nine emulsion (O/W) were development and they were submitted physic-chemical stability study. The most stables formulations were sensory evaluated by volunteers and the favorite was used as vehicle to formula containing extract. Formulation containing extract has been evaluated for physic-chemical stability and spreadability, rheology, antioxidant activity and sun protect factor, both in vitro. Posteriorly thermal analysis and cutaneous permeation and retention tests, using Franz cells, were realized. Partial results showed that extracts presented flavonoids referents to quercetin and rutin, are secure for citotoxicy assay realized, presented sun protection factor and antioxidant activity, according methods realized, and Ginkgo biloba L. extract and Mix sample presented the most significant results. The cosmetic formulation development and chosen such as favorite by sensory analysis presented physic-chemical stability and good spreadability, and formulation containing flavonoids presented antioxidant activity and sun protection factor by in vitro methods. Therefore, after finish of study, formula containing flavonoids will be an alternative to combat the deleterious effects from exposure to ultraviolet radiation and a promise to use as sunscreen.