Sun care in a heating world
Did you know that 2023 saw the hottest year since records began? With that statistic, we wonder how best to protect ourselves from the sun. Fortunately, suncare has become increasingly sophisticated in 2024, with amazing formulas and packaging innovations that easily fit into busy lives. Per research firm Mintel, consumer usage of sunscreens to prevent cancer grew 20% in 2023. With many questions surrounding this category, read on to make this your best-protected summer season to date!
Physical and chemical sunscreens
Have you ever considered sunscreen ingredients? Business of Fashion reported on surfer Kelly Slater launching Freaks of Nature, with SPF-30 sunscreen as one of the hero products. Interestingly, Slater was known as notorious for avoiding sunscreen. Some of his objections included the potential effects of sunscreen ingredients on coral reefs and findings that the body might absorb them. A mineral-based sunscreen became the natural solution to his aversion.
Mineral sunscreen (physical or non-absorbed) contains minerals, specifically zinc, and titanium dioxide, known for leaving a dreaded white cast on the skin. Newer formulations offer clear or glowing technologies. Chemical sunscreen, or absorbed sunscreen, works by absorbing UV rays, converting them to heat, and releasing them from the body. Refinery29 focused on common myths, one of which says that mineral sunscreen has proven safer and more effective. According to New York-based dermatologist Dr. Doris Day, if you put on mineral or chemical sunscreen with the same SPF level, they will protect in equal measure. Day asserts that chemical sunscreens work better than no sunscreen. According to research firm SPATE, #chemicalsunscreen has been trending on TikTok, with over 514 K searches!
The celebrity influence
Since the brand’s launch, Rihanna’s Fenty line has always promoted inclusion and choices. Fenty Skin’s TikTok video showcasing their chemical and mineral sunscreen has become the highest-viewed video of all time for chemical sunscreen. Lady Gaga recently hosted a party for Clinuvel, an Australian sun protection pharmaceutical company. The pop star, whose boyfriend, Michael Polansky, has ties to the company, intends to change the brand’s trajectory. Witness Cyacelle Polychromatic Solar Protector, currently available in the UK. Sol Del Janeiro, best known for Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, launched a new sunscreen category with Sophia Ritchie Grainge. Highlighting the sunscreen hybrid boom, the Rio Radiance SPF 50 Sunscreen Collection offers three formats and finishes – a lotion, spray, and body oil. In addition to a skin-perfecting glow, the range features their Cheirosa 87 scent, with notes of coconut milk, tuberose, ylang-ylang, vanilla, and amber!
New formulas and innovative packaging – best uses
In addition to new hybrid formulas, your head may be spinning as to what new formats would work best for specific uses. Shiseido recently launched Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion SPF 60+, with a “Sun on the Run” campaign, recruiting six “Ultimate Sun Pros” athletes. Best for outdoor sports, the innovative new technology activates while you heat up! Similarly, Té, disrupting the Korean suncare market, offers PPALGANG Athleisure SPF 50 for outdoor sports.
In need of a vacation? Take a look at Vacation’s Classic Whip SPF 30. Best for the beach, the whipped mousse sunscreen formula comes in a nostalgic can, complete with a decorator’s tip! Kopari’s Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist SPF 42, offers the best option for reapplying. The glazed look and beautiful pink packaging are perfect for special events and “shelfie” beauty. Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 from EltaMD reigns for everyday face use. Tinted, the formula protects skin prone to acne and rosacea with niacinamide and a transparent zinc oxide finish. Cabana Clear Water Gel SPF 50 by Naked Sundays, best under makeup, offers a lightweight moisturizing gel. Lastly, Olay Glow & Protect Stick SPF 50 may serve as your choice for convenient on-the-go applications. Easy application for the nose and ears means the formula can offer an excellent option for children. Regarding delicate areas, 13% of skin cancers occur on the scalp (especially tough for bald heads), so Folicule offers an SPF 40 Scalp Sunscreen.
Year-round sunscreen
If you are feeling curious, you should include sunscreen as the last skincare step before applying makeup. Cosmetics Business recently revealed that one of the top five trends in skincare will feature “year-round sunscreen,” emphasizing the daily use of sunscreen come rain or shine, indoors and outdoors. Symrise wholly supports this trend, recently participating in an industry-wide webinar that is available on demand. Weigh in on your favorite sunscreens below, and let us know how you plan to protect in the warmer months ahead!
