A Narrative Review on a Photoprotective Cream Enriched with Zinc Oxide and Herbal Ingredients

Ultraviolet (UV) is a factor in sunburn, photoaging, pigmentation changes and skin cancer, so there is a need for broad-spectrum effective sun protection. This narrative review explores the reasons to use a cream containing zinc oxide and rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) and aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller). There are published data supporting the ability of zinc oxide to deliver the primary UVA/UVB attenuation, rosemary phenolics for antioxidant activity, and that aloe vera and aloe plant extracts deliver hydration and skin comfort along with a moderate level of anti-inflammatory activity, with the zinc oxide being the primary ingredient for delivering UVB/UVB protection. The SPF in-vitro data reported for other herbal sunscreen preparations vary and the variability in the extracts, concentration, vehicles, and testing methods hinders the comparison. The four components combination has not been directly tested in the literature reviewed. Therefore, standardized extracts, formulations stability, extensive testing against multiple species and safety assessment and relevant in-vivo validation must be performed prior to efficacy claims.