Formulation and Characterization of a Polyherbal Sunscreen Containing Camellia sinensis, Vitis vinifera, and Silybum marianum Extracts

Background and Objectives: Prolonged Ultraviolet (UV) exposure induces oxidative stress, leading to inflammatory skin disorders in photosensitive individuals. This study aimed to develop and evaluate a polyherbal sunscreen cream containing Camellia sinensis (CS), Vitis vinifera (VV), and Silybum marianum (SM) for its antioxidant and photoprotective efficacy. Materials and Methods: Alcoholic extracts of CS, VV, and SM were incorporated into six topical Formulations (F1-F6) using stearic acid as an emulsifier. Formulations were assessed for pH, spreadability, viscosity, drug content, total phenolic content, in vitro drug release, antioxidant activity, and Sun Protection Factor (SPF). FTIR analysis confirmed compatibility, while HPTLC validated the presence of key phytochemicals-epicatechin-3-galactoside (CS), procyanidin (VV), and Silybin (SM). Results and Discussion: Among the formulations, F4 demonstrated superior performance with 82.97±3.52% w/w of CS, 86.44±3.74% w/w of VV, and 80.78±31.76% w/w of SM. In vitro release studies indicated 75.77±3.59% w/w of CS, 78.12±4.23% w/w of VV, and 74.71±3.95% w/w of SM release over 8 hr, following zero-order kinetics and Higuchi diffusion. F4 exhibited a total polyphenolic content of 30 mg (Eq.GA)/g and 71.56±2.89% ROS inhibition, signifying potent antioxidant activity. Its SPF of 25.384 matched synthetic sunscreens. Stability studies confirmed its robustness over three months. Conclusion: F4 demonstrated excellent antioxidant and photoprotective properties, offering a promising natural alternative for managing UV-induced skin damage in photosensitive individuals.