Unified Health Critical Research
Vol 2 No 2 (2026): March-August

Natural Photoprotection in Tropical Indonesia: In Vitro Sunscreen Activity of Kleinhovia Hospita Leaf Extract

Jannah, Nidaul (Unknown)
Syarif, Alwiyah Nur (Unknown)
Ningsi, Surya (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
08 Aug 2026

Abstract

Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is associated with various adverse skin effects, including erythema, hyperpigmentation, premature aging, and skin cancer, highlighting the need for effective photoprotective agents. Growing interest in natural-based sunscreen products has encouraged the investigation of plant-derived compounds with potential UV-protective activity. Paliasa (Kleinhovia hospita Linn.) leaves contain bioactive constituents, particularly flavonoids and polyphenols, which may contribute to photoprotective effects. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of paliasa leaf extract as a natural sunscreen using an in vitro approach. Sunscreen activity was assessed by determining the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), percentage of erythema transmission (%Te), and percentage of pigmentation transmission (%Tp) at extract concentrations of 100, 300, 500, 700, and 900 ppm. The results showed a concentration-dependent increase in SPF values, ranging from 22.40 at 100 ppm to 42.62 at 900 ppm. The %Te values ranged from 0.64% to 0.27%, indicating a total-block category across all tested concentrations. Similarly, %Tp values ranged from 0.57% to 0.25% and were also classified within the total-block category. These findings demonstrate that paliasa leaf extract exhibits substantial in vitro photoprotective activity against both UVB- and UVA-associated effects. Therefore, K. hospita leaf extract has promising potential as a natural active ingredient for the development of sunscreen formulations.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ucr

Publisher

Subject

Environmental Science Health Professions Public Health

Description

Unified Health Critical Research (ISSN 3109-0486 for print and ISSN 3109-0478 for online) is a peer-reviewed journal published by Universitas Islam Negeri Alauddin since 2024. This journal is published biannually, in February and August. Unihealth Critical Research focuses on various aspects of ...