Radiant rays from the sun, ultraviolet light, appear in different types and wavelengths and have different effects on human skin. Such as premature aging, tanning, sunburn, and damage to the DNA structure of the skin.
So far, the negative effects of sunlight can be stopped/blocked with sunscreen. However, the mixture of chemicals in this sunscreen does not fully provide a positive effect on the skin such as irritation, changes in skin shape, dryness, and so on.
Natural sunscreen is an innovation that researchers are promoting to minimize the negative effects that can be caused. One of them is the FTUB Chemical Engineering team.
With the guidance of Adji Hendra S, S.T., M.T., four students consisting of Arini Nur Fauziah, Febriyanti Solichatu Afiyah, Bidayatul Khoiriyah, and Bagas Gilang Prayoga researched sisal hemp, Agave sisalana, as a sunscreen ingredient.
Agave Sisalana allegedly contains a large amount of lignin. Lignin itself is known for its function as an anti-oxidant, anti-virus, anti-tumor, and anti-carcinogenic.
Lignin is also known as a free-radical scavenger which shows an effective anti-oxidant effect. Lignin is usually found interacting in plant cell walls to form stable aggregates called LCC.
“Usually, Agave sisalana is only used for its sisal fiber, even though its content can be further utilized,” said Arini as Team Leader.
Together with the team, she wants to prove the efficacy of LCC in Agave sisalana as an anti-UV material and compete in the upcoming selection of the 34th 2021 National Student Scientific Week (PIMNAS). (humasft)
