Abstract

Harsh synthetic chemicals and pollution tremendously affecting our life today, hence, nature has endowed us with its everlasting treasure of herbal ingredients. The review basically emphasis on various herbal ingredients which have potential for photo protection. Ultraviolet rays are the major cause of sunburn which further leads to dangerous skin cancer. Prohibition of U.V rays penetration can be achieved by use of herbal ingredients showing sun screening action. As compare to synthetic moites herbal shows reduced side effects, effective in chronic conditions, widespread availability at lower cost. Basically herb with Vitamin (A, C, E) flavonoids, polyphenols, carotinoids (Lycopene, β carotene), and phenolic acids enhance photo protection as they posses antioxidant action. These herbal ingredients inhibit free radical formation and neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enhance skin protection from harmful U.V rays.  This review focuses on various herbs with active constituent responsible for photo protection. This review concludes damaging and harmful effects of UV rays, types of UV radiations and at last review concludes study of chemical constituents present in various herbals responsible for UV shielding effect.