Abstract

In recent years, the growing concerns over systemic absorption, allergic reactions, endocrine activity, and marine toxicity associated with synthetic UV filters have raised safety and sustainability questions, and reignited a considerable interest and demand toward natural sunscreens as an effective and sustainable UV filter for photo-protection. Against this backdrop, this paper evaluates the opportunities and challenges of natural sunscreens as safe, eco-friendly and sustainable alternatives to synthetic UV filters. Specifically, the paper assessed its antioxidants activity and SPF effectiveness, examine its safety and shelf-life stability, and explored its overall photo-protection performance. A systematic literature review (SLR) approach was used. Google Scholar, Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) were used to search, identify, review and synthesize experimental, clinical, and ecological peer-reviewed literature published in last 6 years. 88 articles were reviewed in this study. Evidence confirms that UVA and UVB radiation induce oxidative stress, DNA damage, inflammation, and long-term skin degeneration. While chemical filters provide effective UV absorption, studies report measurable systemic exposure, safety risks, and environmental impacts. Natural sunscreens, particularly mineral filters and plant-derived phytochemicals, demonstrate multifunctional mechanisms, including UV attenuation, antioxidant activity, and anti-inflammatory effects, though clinical standardization remains limited. Natural photoprotective agents offer promising safety and sustainability advantages but require stronger clinical validation and regulatory harmonization. Future sunscreen innovation may depend on hybrid formulations that integrate efficacy, human safety, and environmental stewardship.

Key words: Keywords: Reactive oxygen species (ROS), Oxidative stress, Antioxidant activity, Sunscreen and Phytochemicals.