Development of High-SPF Sunscreen Cream Formulation Using Green Tea (Camellia sinensisL.) Extract Obtained via Combined Pulsed Electric Field and Microwave–Ultrasound Assisted Extraction (PEF-MUAE)

Abstract

The tea plant (Camellia sinensisL.) is valued for its antioxidant-rich secondary metabolites. Virgin coconut oil (VCO) acts as a natural emollient with mild UV protection, while titanium dioxide (TiO₂) serves as a physical UV filter. This study aimed to develop a high-SPF, eco-friendly sunscreen cream combining these ingredients. A novel pulsed electric field and microwave–ultrasoundassisted extraction (PEF-MUAE) method using distilled water was applied to extract bioactive compounds from green tea. This method significantly improved the extraction yield (41.06 ± 0.72%) compared with conventional maceration (23.54± 0.69%) and produced a higher SPF at 5000 ppm (46.28 ± 0.52 vs. 21.37 ± 0.73). Four cream formulations were tested: F0 (base), F1 (TiO₂), F2 (green tea), and F3 (green tea + TiO₂). Organoleptically, F0 and F1 appeared ivory coloredwith a beeswax scent, whereasF2 and F3 were brownish with a herbal aroma. F3 had the firmest texture, due to TiO₂, and showed the best physical stability. SPF values ranged from negligible in F0 to 42.16 ± 0.79 in F3. F3 also showed the highest antioxidant activity (LC₅₀ = 1.85 ± 0.09 ppm) and phenolic content (36.88 ± 1.20 mg GAE/g). In conclusion, PEF-MUAE enhanced extraction efficiency and bioactivity, and the formulation of green tea, VCO, and TiO₂ produced a stable, high-performance natural sunscreen.