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UV-protective molecules
What Is a Modern Sunscreen Made Of?
Since ancient times, people in different parts of the world have attempted to protect their skin from the harmful effects of the sun by applying mixtures of natural substances.
Since the middle of the twentieth century, however, topical sunscreens have been developed specifically to provide effective protection against solar radiation.
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The vehicle
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Other ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties
1. UV-Protective Molecules
These are divided into inorganic and organic UV-protective agents.
Inorganic agents
Inorganic agents consist of mineral particles, mainly zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which form a protective layer on the skin capable of shielding it from the entire solar spectrum. This mechanism is commonly referred to as the shield effect.
Organic agents
Organic agents are chemical molecules that selectively interact with specific wavelengths of solar radiation, particularly within the UVB and UVA ranges. They absorb this energy and convert it into longer-wavelength light that is considerably less harmful to the skin. This mechanism is known as the filter effect.
Depending on the desired formulation, a sunscreen may contain:
The objective is to obtain the broadest possible protection against ultraviolet radiation and, when required, against visible light as well.
2. The Vehicle
The vehicle is the formulation in which the active ingredients are incorporated.
Cream
Lotion
Oil
Spray
Gel
Stick
Each vehicle has specific characteristics that make it suitable for different conditions of use. For people who practice water sports, selecting the most appropriate vehicle is particularly important.
3. Other Ingredients
Modern sunscreens often contain additional ingredients designed to counteract or limit the biological effects of the small amount of ultraviolet radiation that may still reach the skin despite the protection provided by the UV-protective molecules.
These ingredients are generally natural substances with antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce oxidative stress and skin inflammation induced by UV exposure.