Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reduced skin moisture can contribute to skin damage and premature aging. Studies indicate that approximately 65–90% of melanoma cases are associated with UV radiation exposure. Kenikir leaves (Cosmos caudatus Kunth) contain flavonoids with potent antioxidant activity and have the potential to improve skin moisture while providing UV protection. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of varying concentrations of kenikir leaf extract on the physical characteristics, consumer acceptability, skin moisture, UV protection, and safety of the formulation. Kenikir leaf extract was obtained by maceration using 96% ethanol and formulated into four lotion formulations: F0 (0%), F1 (0.10%), F2 (0.25%), and F3 (0.50%). The formulations were evaluated for physical characteristics, hedonic properties, skin hydration using a digital skin checker, in vitro sun protection factor (SPF) using the Mansur method with a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, and irritation testing involving 20 panelists. Data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA. Increasing the extract concentration increased viscosity and adhesiveness while decreasing spreadability and pH, with all formulations meeting the required physical quality standards. F1 and F2 were the most preferred formulations. F3 showed the best effectiveness, with a skin moisture increase of 42.57 ± 9.72% and an SPF value of 21.07 ± 0.05, classified as ultra protection. Significant differences were observed among the formulations (p<0.05), and no irritation reactions were observed in any formulation. Formula 3 demonstrated the best effectiveness, exhibiting high skin hydration capacity and strong protection against ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, it has the potential to be developed as a cosmeceutical lotion with moisturizing and UV-protective activities.
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