FARISA AZ ZAHRA BINTI MOHD FARAHAN Kolej PERMATA Insan
Skin health and beauty are strongly influenced by adequate hydration, nourishment, and protection against environmental stressors such as ultraviolet (UV) radiation. However, most commercial whitening and anti-aging creams rely heavily on synthetic agents, which may cause irritation, compromise long-term safety, and contribute to sustainability concerns. To address these issues, we developed PhytoKsum ShieldTM, a novel herbal tone-up sunscreen cream enriched with Persicaria minor (kesum) extract and formulated entirely from natural, skin-friendly ingredients. The innovation harnesses the antioxidant-rich extract of P. minor, recognized for its abundance offlavonoids and polyphenols, to provide potent free radical scavenging and photoprotective effects. To enhance texture, stability, and skin nourishment, the cream incorporates jojoba oil and olive oil, well-established natural emollients that improve spreadability, hydration, and barrier function. The fully plant-derived formulation demonstrated favorable physical characteristics, highlighting its potential as a safe, effective, sustainable and eco-conscious alternative to conventional synthetic creams. As a multifunctional skincare product that delivers tone-up radiance, UV protection, and long-term dermal health, PhytoKsum ShieldTM represents a next-generation natural sunscreen innovation aligned with the rising global demand for natural-based cosmetics.