Phytochemistry Letters 59 (2024) 101–107

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Phytochemistry Letters
journal homepage: [Link]/locate/phytol

Assessing the safety and efficacy of DIY-homemade sunscreens with

natural, aromatic and herbal ingredients
Onur Kenan ULUTAŞ a, *, 1, Figen KARADOGAN b, 2, Senem AKGÜL c, 3, Zeynep Gizem YILDIZ c, 4
a
Department of Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey
b
Division of Psychology & Counseling, Governors State University, University Park, IL, USA
c
Undergraduate Student, Faculty of Pharmacy, Gazi University, Ankara, Turkey

A R T I C L E I N F O A B S T R A C T

Keywords: Sunscreen products are widely used during the summer months to protect against increased sunlight exposure.
Natural skincare products While there have been advancements in the effectiveness and safety of commercial sunscreens, there is a growing
Homemade sunscreens interest in "completely natural" and homemade skincare products, including sunscreens. These homemade al­
Aromatic and herbal ingredients
ternatives often incorporating aromatic and medicinal herbal preparations, are being touted as safe alternatives
Toxicology
UV protection
on online social media platforms and alternative health websites. It is essential to recognize that scientific
research has primarily focused on evaluating the effectiveness and safety of commercially available sunscreen
products. Concerns have arisen regarding the potential risks associated with non-commercial sunscreens,
particularly those labeled as "homemade" or "completely natural." Therefore, it is crucial to investigate whether
these DIY sunscreen products, advertised as natural and additive-free, pose any health threats due to their
inadequate sun protection properties. This study aims to examine the formulations of these proposed homemade
sunscreen products, specifically evaluating their durability, protection against ultraviolet A and B (UVA and
UVB) radiation, and average sun protection factor (SPF) values from a toxicological perspective. Emphasizing the
importance of safety in sunscreen products is paramount, as the use of unsafe sunscreens can lead to serious
health risks, including skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin disorders.

1. Introduction The human skin has developed several defense mechanisms to pro­
tect itself from the harmful effects of UV radiation. These mechanisms
Solar radiation, particularly the ultraviolet component, exhibits both include epidermal thickening, stimulation of melanin synthesis, and
positive and negative health effects (WHO, 2022). UV radiation stimu­ MC1R signaling (WHO, 2017; EPA, 2022). The epidermis, which is the
lates vitamin D production, which is essential for calcium and phos­ outermost layer of the skin, thickens as a protective response to UV ra­
phorus absorption, skeletal development, immune function, and blood diation (D’Orazio et al., 2013). Melanin plays a crucial role in safe­
cell formation (Holick, 2004; WHO, 2017); however, prolonged expo­ guarding the skin against UV radiation, as its synthesis increases upon
sure can lead to serious skin damage, including skin cancer, premature UV exposure, resulting in darkening of the skin (Brenner and Hearing,
aging, inflammation, and immune system suppression (Chawda and 2008). Furthermore, MC1R signaling enhances pigment synthesis in
Shinde, 2022; Godar et al., 2003; Lautenschlager et al., 2007; Rastogi melanocytes, providing protection against UV radiation (García-Borrón
et al., 2010; Umar and Tasduq, 2022). Similarly, research suggests that et al., 2014).
excessive UV radiation exposure has been associated with eye diseases, The adverse health effects caused by UV radiation necessitate the
with conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration being linked adoption of precautionary measures to limit exposure. These measures
to prolonged sun exposure (Chawda and Shinde, 2022). include the use of protective clothing, seeking shade, and application of

* Corresponding author.
E-mail address: onurkenan@[Link] (O.K. ULUTAŞ).
1
ORCID ID: 0000–0001-8819–9461
2
ORCID ID: 0009–0001-9793–3258
3
ORCID ID: 0000–0001-8203–2337
4
ORCID ID: 0009–0008-1319–7531

[Link]
Received 18 July 2023; Received in revised form 6 September 2023; Accepted 20 December 2023
Available online 19 January 2024
1874-3900/© 2024 Phytochemical Society of Europe. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
O.K. ULUTAŞ et al. Phytochemistry Letters 59 (2024) 101–107

sunscreens (Heenen et al., 2001). Sunscreens play a crucial role in skin sensitivity and allergies (Heetfeld et al., 2020), considerations for
safeguarding the skin against the harmful effects of UV radiation, and environmental sustainability (Dini and Laneri, 2021), lack of trust in
even medical organizations recommend the use of sunscreens to prevent commercial products (Yi et al., 2013), and the desire for personalization,
skin cancer (AADA, 2023; D’Orazio et al., 2013; Lim and Cooper, 1999; empowerment, and anti-branding (Kucuk, 2015). The appeal of these
WHO, 2017). Sunscreen products are cosmetic formulations comprising homemade formulations lies in their perceived simplicity, ease of
UV filters and antioxidants which act by absorbing, reflecting, or scat­ application, pleasant sensory attributes, cost-effectiveness, and alter­
tering UV radiation (Moyal, 2012). Physical sunscreens, such as zinc native approach to sun protection. However, the actual safety and
oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2), remain on the skin surface and effectiveness of these homemade sunscreen ingredients have not been
predominantly scatter sunlight while chemical sunscreens including verified or assigned SPF ratings by regulatory authorities, and there have
avobenzone, octocrylene, and homosalate, on the other hand, absorb, been reports suggesting potential dangers associated with such formu­
reflect, and scatter UV radiation simultaneously (Catelan et al., 2019). lations (Kanellis, 2020).
Sunscreens are evaluated based on their sun protection factor (SPF), Although certain natural ingredients have demonstrated sun-
which denotes their level of protection against UVB radiation (AADA, protective properties, uncertainties persist regarding their effective­
2023). Extensive scientific research has substantiated the efficacy and ness in homemade formulations and ability to achieve the required SPF
safety of sunscreen products in protecting the skin against UV levels (Catelan et al., 2019; Choquenet et al., 2008). This popularity of
radiation-induced damage, including premature aging, skin cancer, and homemade sunscreens raises concerns regarding the lack of quality
other adverse effects (Passeron et al., 2021; Silva et al., 2018). control and regulation in their preparation, potentially resulting in
Throughout history, humans have utilized various herbal products to inadequate protection against harmful UV rays. The use of untested and
protect their skin from the solar radiation’s detrimental effects alongside unregulated products can lead to detrimental effects on the skin,
conventional laboratory and commercial cosmetic production (Cho­ including sunburn, premature aging, and an elevated risk of skin cancer.
quenet et al., 2008). Some of these herbal ingredients continue to be Therefore, it is crucial to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these
used as active components in sunscreens. Plant extracts and chemical products and establish appropriate regulations to protect public health.
substances derived from specific plants exhibit photoprotective prop­ In this project we assess the safety and efficacy of DIY-homemade sun­
erties through mechanisms such as UV filtering, antioxidant activity, screens with natural, aromatic and herbal ingredients, which are mar­
and anti-inflammatory effects (Choquenet et al., 2008; Djeridane et al., keted as safe alternatives to commercial sunscreens, if they pose a threat
2006). Plant species rich in phenolic compounds, including derivatives to public health due to their lack of sun protection and/or quality
of caffeic acid, resveratrol, quercetin, ferulic acids, apigenin, genistein, properties.
and tannins, are particularly notable for their sun protection potential
and contribution to increasing SPF values (Djeridane et al., 2006; Jar­ 2. Materials and methods
adata et al., 2018). Commercial sunscreen product information often
highlights the inclusion of these compounds and plant [Link] 1a, 2.1. Selection and preparation of DIY formulations
Table 1b.
In recent times, there has been a growing public interest in The Google search engine was utilized to search for sunscreen recipes
"completely natural" and homemade skincare products, including sun­ by using the keywords "sunscreen recipe" and "make your own sun­
screens (Emerald et al., 2016). These DIY-homemade sunscreens are screen". Subsequently, various recipes for sunscreen were selected from
increasingly promoted as safe alternatives to commercial options well-known Turkish and English websites and the sunscreen production
through online social media platforms, blogs, and alternative health took place in a laboratory setting. It was noted that most of the recipes
websites (Merten et al., 2020). Several factors contribute to individuals contain similar content and formulations. Thus, a careful selection
opting to create their own sunscreen, and their risk perception can differ process was adopted to select five formulations from Turkish sources
accordingly. These factors include a preference for natural and and five from international sources that met specific criteria—the rec­
chemical-free products (Grankvist and Biel, 2001), concerns related to ipes and formulations that prominently featured aromatic and herbal
ingredients.
Table 1a In the process of formulating DIY sunscreens, we aimed to replicate
Fixed oils, essential oils and other herbal ingredients listed in formulations. the conditions under which typical consumers might source ingredients
for homemade skincare products. To achieve this, we conducted
Category Ingredients Latin Names (if applicable)
searches on internet seller websites commonly utilized by the public for
Fixed Oils Walnut Oil Juglans regia purchasing such ingredients. These searches were conducted to find
Cocoa Butter Theobroma cacao
Sesame Oil Sesamum indicum
options that matched the ingredient content and quantity specified in
Olive Oil Olea europaea the recipes, particularly when quantities were indicated in units such as
Almond Oil Prunus dulcis tablespoons and teaspoons. Ingredients were selected based on their
Hazelnut Oil Corylus avellana availability and suitability for use in skincare applications as indicated
Aloe vera Oil Aloe barbadensis
on these websites. This approach allowed us to mimic the ingredient-
Coconut Oil Cocos nucifera
Red Raspberry Oil Rubus idaeus sourcing practices of the general public and provide insights into the
Shea Butter Vitellaria paradoxa potential risks associated with readily accessible options. During prep­
Jojoba Oil Simmondsia chinensis aration, care was taken to follow the directions to use the same measures
Essential Oils Carrot Seed Oil Daucus carota (i.e., mass and volume) of the various ingredients as specified in the
Mint Oil Mentha spp.
Lavender Oil Lavandula angustifolia
recipe especially when the quantities were given in units such as ta­
Chamomile Oil Matricaria chamomilla blespoons and teaspoons. When the recipe allowed for a choice of
Helichrysum Essential Oil Helichrysum italicum essential oil, peppermint essential oil was used.
Tamanu Oil Calophyllum inophyllum To establish a standard reference for formulation preparation, one
Lavender Essential Oil Lavandula angustifolia
formulation was directly taken from a pharmacy education textbook for
Frankincense Essential Oil Boswellia serrata
Ylang Ylang Essential Oil Cananga odorata pharmacy students (Acartürk, 2013). In addition, a completely natural
Other Ingredients Tea Camellia sinensis ingredient formulation was prepared in a pharmacy which is a com­
Lemon Juice Citrus limon mercial product were also included in the study for comparison pur­
Beeswax Cera alba poses. The inclusion of these formulations aimed to provide a
Vitamin E Oil Tocopherol
comprehensive comparison of the effectiveness and safety of the

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Table 1b
Homemade / DIY sunscreen formulations.
FORMULATIONS OF SAMPLES

1. Sample 2. Sample 3. Sample 4. Sample 5. Sample 6. Sample

([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link])

3 tbsp. walnut oil 1 tbsp. Aloe vera oil 2 medium size Aloe vera 20 gr beeswax ¼ cup rash cream 1 glass olive oil
3 tbsp. cocoa butter 1 tbsp. mint oil leaves 200 gr butter 1 tbsp. coconut oil 1 oz pure beeswax
6 tbsp. sesame oil 1 tbsp. hazelnut oil 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 tbsp. mint oil 1 tbsp. cocoa butter 2 tbsp. zinc oxide
3 tbsp. olive oil 1 pinch calendula 1 tbsp. chamomile oil 1 tbsp. Aloe vera gel powder
2 tbsp. almond oil herb ½ teaspoon lemon juice 1 tsp. sesame oil 5 drops lavender
2 cups very dark and 300 ml milk 1 tsp. beeswax
cold tea 5-10 drops lavender oil
7. Sample 8. Sample 9. Sample 10. Sample 11. Sample 12. Sample
([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link]) ([Link]) (Pharmacy Formulation) (Book Formulation)
½ cup almond oil 1 oz coconut oil 1 oz beeswax pellets 14 gr wax particles 26.5 ml tamanu 20 gr carbomer
¼ cup coconut oil 0.8 oz shea butter 4 oz your favorite lotion 1 tbsp. shea butter 8.5 ml cocos 90 gr propylene glycol
1 tsp. red raspberry 0.1 oz sesame oil 1 oz zinc oxide 2 tbsp. coconut oil 1.5 gr pomade zinc oxide cream 15 gr triethanolamine
oil 0.1 oz vitamin E oil 12 drops carrot seed oil 2 tbsp. sweet almond oil 1.5 gr beeswax 50 gr octyl dimethyl
1 tsp. carrot seed oil 30 drops lavender 12 drops raspberry seed oil 1 tbsp. zinc oxide 2 ml Lavandula angustifolia essential PABA
1 tsp. vitamin E oil oil 2 tbsp. jojoba oil ¼ tsp. vitamin E oil oil 825 gr distilled water
2 drops lavender oil 1 tbsp. zinc oxide ½− 2 tsp. cocoa 10 drops helichrysum 2 drops frankincense (boswellia %0.15 methyl
2 tbsp. shea butter powder essential oil carterii) essential oil paraben
¼ cup beeswax 10-15 drops lavender oil 1 drop ylang ylang (Cananga
2 tbsp. zinc oxide odaerata) essential oil

tbsp.: tablespoon, tsp.: teaspoon

homemade sunscreens prepared in the study. 3. Results

Well-known internet search engine Google deploys “Google Trends”
tool, which analyzes and compares the search volume of given keywords Analysis of search trends on internet search engines using keywords
on their search engine, which enables understanding the magnitude of such as "recipe DIY homemade sunscreen" during specific months has
the emergent interests of the general public. revealed a significant increase in popularity. This heightened interest
has been observed as the highest within the span of the last three years.
2.2. Stabilization study / observation of formulation changes Furthermore, it is noteworthy that these searches were not limited to
specific countries but spread across a global scale, indicating a wide­
After the preparations were made, the products were packaged into spread interest and engagement [Link]. 1.
jars and labeled. The formulations were then observed for any changes Aromatic and herbal products used in these formulations include
by storing them at room temperature for overnight, 1 day, 3 days, 7 walnut oil, cocoa butter, sesame oil, olive oil, almond oil, mint oil,
days, and 14 days. Changes in the formulations were recorded. To hazelnut oil, calendula herb, Aloe vera oil, lemon juice, lavender oil,
evaluate the possibility of microbial stability and/or contamination, 1/ chamomile oil, beeswax, shea butter, red raspberry oil, carrot seed oil,
100 dilutions of each formulation were made and inoculated onto Vitamin E oil, jojoba oil, helichrysum essential oil, tamanu oil, cocos,
standard agar on days 7 and 14. pomade zinc oxide cream, lavender essential oil, frankincense essential
oil, ylang ylang essential oil, and various types of non-toxic lotions and
2.3. Determination of sun protection values by observing protective creams. Additionally, some formulations contain ingredients like dark
efficacy at UV A and UV B wavelengths and cold tea, milk, zinc oxide powder, and propylene glycol.
The results obtained from the stability observation studies of the 12
For each product, 40 mg was carefully weighed and applied onto formulations are as follows:
transparent polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) plates that exhibit ho­ Formulation 1 was found to be a two-phase mixture from the
mogeneous distribution properties in the working wavelengths. The beginning, and the upper phase completely solidified from the 2nd day,
plates were kept in the dark at room temperature for 15 min, and their making shaking impossible. Mold formation occurred on the sample on
absorbance in different wavelengths (with 5 nm intervals) between the 21st day. Formulation 2, due to the presence of milk in the liquid
290–400 nm was measured using Agilent Technologies Cary 60 UV-Vis structure of this formulation, a change in odor occurred from 7th day,
spectrophotometry. Absorbance values change over time at different and it completely spoiled by the 21st day. Formulation 3, The color of
wavelengths were observed to determine the protective efficacy of the the product darkened over time and lost its shiny appearance from 7th
formulations at UV A and UV B wavelengths. Commonly used approach day. A bad odor was detected on the 7th day. Formulation 4, although
is to calculate the SPF value using a mathematical equation based on the there was no physical change observed in this solid sample, but it had a
measured absorbance (Chou et al., 2017). Here, the SPF values were strong odor due to the presence of butter. For formulations 5, 6, 9, 10, no
measured using the modified method of Couteau et al. (2021) based on physical changes were observed in these preparations. Formulation 7,
the Mansur et al.’s (1986). The measurements were calculated using the yellowing was observed on the top surface of this solid sample from the
formula SPF=CF.Σ290–310 EE (λ). I(λ). Abs(λ), where CF was the cor­ 2nd day, but there was no change in odor or physical properties.
relation factor, EE(λ) was the erythemal effect at the specific wave­ Formulation 8, the source website recommends avoid exposure to sun­
length, and Abs(λ) represented the absorption of the sample at the given light so, the product was stored in aluminum foil to avoid exposure to
wavelength. In our study, similar to Mansur et al. (1986), we have light, and there was no change in odor, but it became more liquid in
adopted a correlation factor of 10 and utilized the constant values of EE.I consistency. The standard reference for formulation preparation, the
at specific wavelengths (0.015 at 290 nm, 0.287 at 300 nm, 0.186 at 310 formulation was directly taken from a pharmacy education textbook for
nm, and 0.018 at 320 nm). pharmacy students, no change was observed in this product while the
pharmacy product exhibited minimal phase separation. No visible
contamination or microbial growth was observed in any of the formu­
lations during the course of our study.

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Fig. 1. Trends in search of the word “DIY recipe homemade sunscreen”, extracted from Google Trends on June 26 (2023) (35).

In summary, some formulations showed instability and changes in sample (p > 0.05), as determined through a one-way analysis of vari­
properties such as odor, color, and phase separations. It is important to ance (ANOVA) supplemented with post-test analysis (GraphPad Instat
note that the presence of certain ingredients, such as milk and butter, 3). The mean absorbance values of all other formulations were found to
may affect the stability and suitability of the formulations for use on the be statistically significant when compared to the control group
face and skin. (p < 0.05). In general, the absorbance levels at different wavelengths
Absorbance, as opposed to transmittance, is used as a measure of the are found to be similar in all DIY formulations. However, in the phar­
effectiveness of sunscreen in absorbing or blocking UV radiation due to macy formulation, it is observed that the absorbance level is higher at
its linear correlation with SPF (Chou et al., 2017). The absorbance lower wavelengths, and it tends to decrease as the wavelength increases.
values of the samples were assessed to determine their efficacy in A similar trend is also observed in the commercial product, although the
providing protection against UVB radiation. Absorbance values at absorbance differences between wavelengths are not clearly evident.
UVA-UVB wavelength studies were conducted by packing the formula­ The Table 3 shows the SPF values for various formulations, including
tions in transparent polycarbonate (PMMA) plates and the absorbance Formulations 01 to 10, Pharmacy Formulation, Book Formulation, and a
values at given wavelengths can be seen in Table 2. It can be observed Commercial SPF30 product. The SPF values for the DIY formulations
that the absorbance values of the samples prepared from formulations 1, range from 1.97 to 34.09, with Formulation 05 having the highest SPF
2, 3, and 8 are at a considerably low level. The statistical examination of value of 28.95. In general, the SPF values for the DIY formulations are
UV-A and UV-B values for each compound has yielded results indicating relatively low, while the Pharmacy Formulation and the Commercial
that, with regard to absorbance values, formulations 1, 2, 3, and 8 SPF30 product have higher SPF values of 41.25 and 26.73, respectively.
demonstrate no statistically significant distinctions from the control The Book Formulation falls in the middle of the range, with an SPF value

Table 2
Absorbance Values at Given Wavelengths (nanometers).

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Table 3
Sun Protection Values of All Formulations.

of 15.12. that line. The websites acknowledge mistrust in commercial products or

at least do not mention any available trusted commercial options but
4. Discussion instead offer solutions for users who want to make their own sunscreen.
The DYI recipes are customizable, facilitating personalization and
Sunscreen products are essential for protecting the skin from the empowerment preferences while cater to users who desire natural and
harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation, which can cause skin damage, chemical-free products. They also address people’s concerns regarding
premature aging, and skin cancer (Pawlowski et al., 2021). As an skin sensitivity and allergies. Evaluating the actual effectiveness and
alternative to the commercial ones, in recent years there has been a safety of homemade sunscreen formulations requires scientific research
growing interest in DIY sunscreens due to their natural ingredients. and validation. Furthermore, it is crucial to educate individuals about
Making homemade sunscreens allows individuals to take control of their the limitations and potential risks associated with homemade sunscreens
skincare routine and feel empowered about the products they use. It to ensure they make informed decisions about sun protection and skin
provides an opportunity for personalization, enabling them to choose health. Only one website (domain: [Link]) provides proper
specific ingredients based on their perceived benefits and preferences warnings and recommendations to users by stating that the health
(Kim et al., 2021). This perception of risk revolves around a desire for professionals advise against making sunscreens at home because there is
self-care, self-sufficiency, and a sense of autonomy in making decisions no way to confirm the level of UV protection that homemade sunscreens
about personal health and well-being (Kucuk, 2015). can provide. It also provides general information on how to choose a
It is important to note that while individuals engaging in DIY sun­ sunscreen, including the importance of using a product with at least SPF
screens may have their own perceptions of risk, their beliefs may not 30 and choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both
always align with scientific evidence or regulatory standards (Kervyn UVA and UVB rays. The website also offers tips on how to apply sun­
et al., 2012; Kim et al., 2021). Homemade sunscreens may be formulated screen properly to ensure maximum protection. Other web sites lack
using natural ingredients, such as essential oils or herbal preparations, such warnings and potentially put their readers at risk by not providing
but the effectiveness and safety of these products may be uncertain, as important information as wikihow website does.
they may not provide sufficient protection against both UVA and UVB Using the correct amount of ingredients is crucial for the effective­
radiation (Kanellis, 2020). Evaluating the actual effectiveness and safety ness and safety of the formulation. Therefore, for the DIY recipes stan­
of homemade sunscreen formulations requires scientific research and dardization of the formulation preparation process and the use of
validation. accurate measuring tools are recommended such that the units and
The perception of natural and chemical-free products can influence quantities of the measuring tools used in the formulation preparation
individuals’ risk perception. There is a widespread belief that natural should be clearly specified. It has been observed that some measure­
ingredients are inherently safer and healthier than synthetic chemicals, ments, such as the amount of ingredients in a spoon or a standard
which in turn leads individuals to perceive commercial sunscreens as amount of drops per milliliter, are not clearly specified in the formula­
riskier due to their chemical composition (Hall and Scott, 2017). Simi­ tion preparation process. This can pose a risk to consumer safety and has
larly, individuals may selectively focus on anecdotal evidence or alter­ been recognized by other researchers (Catelan et al., 2019). In addition
native health websites that promote the benefits of homemade to the standardization of the procedure, stability studies of the prepared
sunscreens while disregarding scientific research that emphasizes the formulations should also be conducted, and the expiration dates needs to
importance of regulated commercial sunscreens (Slovic et al., 2004). be determined to ensure consumer safety. Even though, this may not be
Prior research reveals that people are often influenced by the experi­ applicable for products ordered online and delivered in open packaging.
ences and opinions of their social circle, including online communities The use of standard herbal preparations obtained from correctly
(Ersoy Yıldırım, 2020). That’s why, positive testimonials or recom­ identified plants is an essential aspect of ensuring the efficacy and safety
mendations from others who have used the homemade sunscreens can of herbal and natural formulations. In our study, we primarily focused
create a perception of reduced risk and increased effectiveness. on assessing the formulations created by individuals following DIY
The websites we reached, provide information on natural and non- recipes that are publicly available on various online platforms. While
toxic living and promote the use of skincare and beauty products in these DIY recipes offer a degree of personalization and empowerment to

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individuals, they may not always specify the exact source of herbal in­ safety and effectiveness when it comes to sunscreen products. By
gredients or the need for standardization in plant material. However, it addressing the underlying reasons for consumers’ choice of DIY products
is indeed crucial to emphasize the significance of using standardized and improving toxicological risk communication, it is possible to lay out
herbal preparations derived from correctly identified plants, particularly the benefits and limitations of the homemade sunscreens and promote
when aiming for consistent and reliable effects. We acknowledge the informed decisions in selecting the effective sun protection. Homemade
importance of this aspect in herbal and natural product formulation and skin care products are chosen to be a good alternative with their aro­
would like to highlight that our study primarily aimed to evaluate the matic and herbal ingredients, but not all formulations last long and show
formulations created by individuals based on these recipes. The lack of protective benefits. For protecting their skin from the harmful effects of
standardization and specific herbal preparation protocols in many DIY ultraviolet radiation, consumers should choose sunscreens that have
recipes available online is a concern, and it’s vital to promote awareness been rigorously tested and evaluated to ensure their safety and efficacy.
regarding the importance of sourcing ingredients from reliable and
certified suppliers, as well as adhering to established herbal preparation CRediT authorship contribution statement
standards.
Several formulations showed instability and changes in properties The authors confirm contribution to the paper as follows: study
such as odor, color, and phase separations. The presence of certain in­ conception and design: OKU; data collection: OKU and FK; laboratory
gredients, such as milk and butter, may affect the stability and suitability analysis and interpretation of results: SA, ZGY and OKU; draft manu­
of the formulations for use on the face and skin. It is said that naturalness script preparation: OKU and FK. All authors reviewed the results and
in cosmetics perception is often driven by the assumption that natural approved the final version of the manuscript.
ingredients will show fewer unwanted effects, even though scientific
evidence may not always support this belief (Hall and Scott, 2017). This Declaration of Competing Interest
could explain why recipes are based on although the well-known
perishable nature of butter or milk. The authors declare that they have no known competing financial
It is important to note that while natural ingredients may have some interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence
beneficial properties (Pinto et al., 2022), they are not always safe for use the work reported in this paper.
in skincare products or may not be fully understood by the consumers
(Urban et al., 2022). Some natural ingredients can cause skin irritation, Data availability
allergic reactions, or even toxicity if used improperly or in high con­
centrations. Additionally, the lack of preservatives in homemade skin­ Data will be made available on request.
care products may increase the risk of bacterial contamination, which
can cause skin infections (Baird, 1984). Acknowledgements
In order to maximize the effectiveness of sunscreen, Food and Drug
Administration (FDA, 2023) recommends selecting a product with a This study is supported by TUBITAK 2209 Program.
minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 while individuals with fair
skin may consider opting for a higher SPF range of 30 to 50 for enhanced References
protection. The SPF values of the different formulations were deter­
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Laboratuvar Elkitabi ([Link]) Ankara.
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