Ultraviolet protection of textiles with herbal dyes: A contemporary review

• Published in: Sustainable chemistry and pharmacy Vol. 41; p. 101689
• Main Authors: Kamboj, Arpana, Medha, Kumari, Gupta, Vandana, Jose, Seiko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.10.2024
• Subjects: Eco-labels; Natural dyes; Skin cancer; Sustainable textiles; UPF; UV protection; UV protection; Sustainable textiles; UPF; Natural dyes; Eco-labels; Skin cancer
• ISSN: 2352-5541; 2352-5541
• DOI: 10.1016/j.scp.2024.101689

Ultraviolet (UV) rays constitute a very low fraction of the solar spectrum, but play an important role to sustain life. However, due to the depletion of ozone layer, humans are exposed to harmful UV radiations, which cause various diseases. The increased harmful effect of UV rays and consumer awareness about protective clothing has resulted in multifunctional sustainable textiles and garments. The degree of ultraviolet UV protection of textiles depends on the type and chemical composition of the fabric and its functional finishing. Today, various natural sources and synthetic chemicals are employed to impart the UV protection finishing on textiles. Whilst, the synthetic UV protection finishing formulations are much effective than the natural compounds, not eco-friendly and many times cause allergy. Thus, it is the need of the hour to impart UV protection through natural sources. In this review the UV radiations and its effects on humans; the possible protection methods employing herbal dyes and textiles; their mechanism of action as well as standards to be followed to categorise a material as UV protective are discussed by analysing and comparing the research works conducted in last 20 years. This review also put light on the eco labels and brands which keep consumers informed about the availability of safe products in the market. •Ultraviolet protection properties (UPF) of the herbal dyes on textiles have been reviewed.•The factors responsible for the UPF of the fabric were investigated.•The responsible principle compounds and mechanism of UV protection has been discussed.•Eco-labels and market potential for the UV protective textiles have been discussed.