Abstract

LYCOPENE A NATURAL SUN BLOCKER IN COSMETICS: A REVIEW

Nupur Wasule* and Mamta Chopde

ABSTRACT

UV protection, the word itself means protection from the UV (ultraviolet) rays coming from sun. In cosmetics, sunscreens are the product which gives protection against harmful UV radiations. Most of the time, in terms of the ingredients and especially active ingredients are synthetic chemicals which are added in the sunscreens. In the form of Phytochemicals or active chemical constituents of plant, nature has several benefits which are safe and also effective. Phytochemicals like carotenoids or flavonoids prevent photo-induced damage or UV damage. Lycopene is a carotenoid found in various natural sources like, tomato, watermelon, papaya, carrot, guava, etc. which has the sun screening efficiency. It gives protection in two ways, first by quenching singlet oxygen radicals and second by absorbing radiations which is quantified on the basis of Skin Protection Factor. Thus aim of this study is to review the lycopene as a natural sun blocker or sunscreen agent, extracted from different fruits and vegetables.

Keywords: Sunscreening agent, Lycopene, Carotenoids, UV protection.