Synthesis and characterization of nanoemulsion of citronella oil (Cymbopogon Nardus L. Rendle) and its Sunscreen Potential Evaluation

Abstract Citronella (Cymbopogon nardus L. Rendle) essential oil contains active compounds such as antioxidants and has the potential to be developed a sunscreen. Nanoemulsion is water dispersion stabilized by surfactant layer particle size below 100 nm. This study described formulation, characterization of citronella nanoemulsions, determination their activity sunscreen through SPF values. The nanoemulsion formulation was made with 3 variations concentration: F1 (1%), F2 (3%), F3 (5%). results organoleptic test were following standards which clear no phase separation occurred. In addition, pH value 1%, 3%, 5% prepared nanoemulsions categorized safe used on skin. formulas O/W types. viscosity values found 12.76, 25.13, 84.05 cP respectively. Furthermore, percent transmittance 98.4, 98.9, 99.9%. sizes, respectively, 9.4 (100%), 10.07 (97%), 8.96 nm (82.5%). centrifugation freeze-thaw cycle tests showed good physical stability. 1.03, 1.13, 1.14 %Te 77.42, 70.21, 67.86% %Tp 95.94, 94.04, 93.61% Keywords: Rendle), nanoemulsion, antioxidant, sunscreen, SPF.