Formulasi Nanokrim Tabir Surya yang Mengandung Ekstrak Etanol Daun Pegagan (Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.)

Abstract

Background: Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun, especially UV-A and UV-B, can cause skin damage such as premature aging, erythema, and skin cancer. The formulation of sunscreen based on nanocrème allows for more effective penetration of active ingredients and enhances the efficacy of UV protection. Objective: This study aims to formulate and evaluate a nanocrème sunscreen preparation containing ethanol extract of pegagan leaves (Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.) in various concentrations (2%, 3%, and 5%). Method: The extract was obtained through the maceration method using 96% ethanol. The nanocream was formulated with tween 80, stearic acid, cetyl alcohol, glycerin, propylene glycol, olive oil, and preservatives in 3 formulations with several variations of pegagan leaf ethanol extract, namely F1(2%), F2(3%), and F3(5%). Evaluation was conducted on physical quality parameters (organoleptic, homogeneity, pH, viscosity, spreadability, particle size), in vitro SPF value, formulation stability at room temperature and cycling test, and skin irritation test on humans. Results: The nanocream preparation shows stable and homogeneous physical characteristics, has a semi-solid texture, light green color, pH value of 5.23–6.23, viscosity value of 13002.7 mPas-28792.7 mPas, and particle size <500 nm. The SPF values obtained for each formula are F1(2%) = 8.49, F2(3%) = 13.91, and F3(5%) = 24.59. The nanocream preparation with a 5% extract concentration shows the highest SPF value of 24.59, which falls into the "ultra" protection category. The irritation test showed negative results, indicating the safety of the preparation for the skin. Conclusion: Ethanol extract of Centella asiatica leaves can be formulated into nanocrème as an effective and safe sunscreen preparation.