When was sunscreen invented?
Long before modern science stepped in, civilisations worldwide were finding creative ways to shield their skin from the sun’s harsh rays. From early natural sunscreen mixtures to the rise of SPF technology, the history of sunscreen is one about a growing understanding of skin health and environmental care.
So, if you want to find out how centuries of innovation shape the way we protect ourselves from the sun today, read on.
The beginnings of sun protection
Even ancient societies understood the risks of sun exposure, and they developed innovative ways to protect their skin.
The Egyptians pioneered one of the earliest forms of sunscreen by blending rice bran, jasmine and lupine into a protective paste. Apart from shielding their skin from UV damage, this mixture also offered moisturising benefits.
On the other hand, Greek civilisations relied on olive oil to reflect sunlight and enhance skin hydration. Although the effectiveness of this is questionable, it does show their ingenuity in finding accessible solutions. Zinc oxide, prized for its protective and healing properties, was already in use as early as 500 B.C.E. by Greeks, Indians and Romans.
The Birth Of Modern Sunscreen In The 20th Century
The 1930s marked a breakthrough in sun protection with the introduction of ‘Gletscher Crème’.
Developed by Austrian chemist Franz Greiter, this product emerged after he suffered severe sunburn while hiking in the Alps. Although its SPF level of 2 is too low by today’s standards, it was a big pioneering step in addressing UV exposure scientifically. What began as a simple solution to a personal problem evolved into an essential global health advancement.
How World War II advanced sunscreen development
The challenges of protecting soldiers from intense sun exposure during World War II also spurred advancements in sunscreen.
During the war, a product called ‘red vet pet’ – short for red veterinary petrolatum – was developed to shield troops from the sun’s rays in areas with high exposure. While effective, this sticky formulation wasn’t user-friendly and was unsuitable for commercial markets. However, it did bring to light the importance of creating sun protection that balances durability with comfort.
How SPF-rated sunscreens revolutionised skin protection in the 1960s
The introduction of SPF ratings in the 1960s transformed sunscreen from a rudimentary solution into a science-backed necessity.
SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, allowed consumers to compare protection levels across products for the first time. This transparency encouraged manufacturers to develop more effective formulations that provided both UVA and UVB protection.
The primary benefit of this advancement was, of course, improved safety standards. But beyond that, it also greatly raised public awareness about the risks of prolonged sun exposure, fostering a more informed approach to skincare.
To this day, the SPF rating system remains a cornerstone of modern sunscreen education and innovation.
The rise of chemical sunscreens
Chemical sunscreens gained popularity for their convenience and effectiveness
Chemical sunscreens became widely popular due to their lightweight texture and ease of application.
Unlike traditional physical sunscreens that created a thick, visible barrier on the skin, chemical formulations absorbed UV radiation, making them nearly invisible after application.
This appealing feature, combined with their ability to offer broad-spectrum protection, significantly boosted consumer demand. Additionally, their quick absorption and compatibility with modern skincare routines made them a go-to choice for people seeking practical solutions for sun protection without compromising on comfort.
Health and environmental concerns about oxybenzone and octinoxate
The rise in chemical sunscreen use brought attention to potential health and environmental risks associated with certain ingredients.
Oxybenzone and octinoxate, two common components in these formulations, were linked to hormone disruptions and allergic reactions in some users. Beyond personal health, studies revealed their potential impact on marine life, with these chemicals contributing to coral bleaching and harming aquatic ecosystems.
These findings sparked public concern and regulatory action in many regions, highlighting the need for safer, more sustainable sun protection options. This even led to bans on certain ingredients in environmentally sensitive areas.
The demand for reef-safe and non-toxic alternatives
Awareness of these risks spurred a shift towards eco-friendly and non-toxic sunscreen formulations.
Consumers began seeking reef-safe sunscreens that avoided harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, ensuring their products were safe for both human health and marine ecosystems. Non-toxic alternatives, particularly mineral-based sunscreens, became a preferred choice for individuals and families prioritising safety and sustainability.
The move towards mineral-based, eco-friendly formulations
Mineral sunscreens featuring zinc oxide emerge as a safer alternative
Mineral sunscreens, like zinc sunscreen products, are now recognised as safer and more effective options for sun protection compared to their synthetic chemical counterparts.
Formulated with ingredients like zinc oxide, these sunscreens create a physical barrier that reflects harmful UV rays instead of absorbing them. This protective layer makes them gentler on sensitive skin, reducing irritation while still providing broad-spectrum coverage.
Unlike chemical alternatives, mineral sunscreens do not penetrate the skin, making them ideal for individuals prone to acne, redness or allergies. Additionally, they provide effective sun protection without leaving harmful residue in aquatic environments, making them an eco-conscious choice.
Ultimately, their ability to protect both skin and nature positions them as a versatile and responsible option for families everywhere.
Non-nano formulations gain traction among families and eco-advocates
Non-nano mineral sunscreens have become increasingly popular for their balanced safety profile.
Unlike nano-sized particles, which can penetrate the skin and pose risks to marine life, non-nano formulations remain on the skin’s surface, ensuring safety for both users and the environment. These reef safe sunscreen Australia citizens love are especially appealing to families who value products that are safe for children, as well as eco-conscious individuals.
Key Points to Remember
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Origins of sun protection: Early civilisations like the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used natural remedies such as rice bran, olive oil and zinc oxide to shield their skin from the sun.
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Modern sunscreen originated in the 1930s: The first commercially available sunscreen, “Gletscher Crème”, was developed by Franz Greiter, paving the way for SPF-rated formulations.
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World War II innovations: The need to protect soldiers from sun exposure led to advancements like ‘red vet pet’, highlighting the importance of durability and comfort in sunscreen development.
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SPF ratings revolutionised protection: Introduced in the 1960s, SPF ratings provided clarity for consumers, encouraging the development of products offering comprehensive UVA and UVB protection.
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Health and environmental concerns: Chemical sunscreens gained popularity for their convenience but raised concerns due to ingredients like oxybenzone, which can harm human health and marine ecosystems.
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Rise of mineral-based formulations: Safer, eco-friendly alternatives like non-nano zinc oxide-based sunscreens have emerged, offering effective protection while being gentle on skin and the environment.
Little Urchin creates safe, toxin-free, eco-friendly skincare products inspired by nature, providing effective sun protection for families and the planet.
Disclaimer: Our ingredients are sourced from nature and we apply a process to transform them into our final product.
