Bromelain, a natural enzyme derived from pineapple, is known for its antioxidant properties, and its potential as a photoprotective agent has garnered interest in skincare applications. The primary objective of this research was to evaluate and optimize the effectiveness of bromelain-based creams in providing antioxidant and photoprotective protection against ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH radical scavenging assay, and the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) was determined in vitro and in vivo to evaluate photoprotective activity. The results revealed that bromelain exhibited strong antioxidant activity. Photoprotection, as measured by SPF, the formulation F3, which combined bromelain with other UV filters, exhibited the highest SPF values of 22.043 ± 0.277 (in vitro) and 21.3 ± 2.901 (in vivo), indicating enhanced photoprotective efficacy. This improvement in SPF was likely due to the synergistic effect of bromelain with the UV filters Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC). The findings suggest a positive correlation between antioxidant activity and photoprotection, with bromelain’s antioxidant properties contributing to its overall photoprotective effect. Bromelain may be used on people without causing skin or eye irritation. This study supports the potential of bromelain-based creams as dual-action skincare formulations, offering both antioxidant and UV protection.

Pineapple (Ananas comosus) is a member of the Bromeliaceae family, predominantly found in tropical regions, including Indonesia. Bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme, is present throughout the pineapple plant, with higher concentrations found in the stem compared to the fruit. While bromelain has been extensively utilized in medical therapies, its applications have expanded into various industries, including food and beverage, textiles, and cosmetics. The growing interest in natural ingredients within the cosmetic industry has led to the emergence of cosmeceuticals products that combine cosmetic and therapeutic benefits. Cosmeceuticals are cosmetic products that contain biologically active ingredients with therapeutic benefits on the applied surface. Common treatments address issues such as acne, redness, hair damage, wrinkles, photoaging, skin dryness, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone. This review article aims to discuss the potential benefits of bromelain as a cosmeceutical raw material.