The future of sunscreens lies in the film

#Photoprotection #Sunscreen #Nanomaterials #Polymers #SPF


Photoprotection is a fundamental pillar in the prevention of skin disorders caused by ultraviolet (UV) exposure. As the incidence of melanoma and carcinoma continues to rise, the actual efficacy of sunscreens is becoming a public health issue. While current organic and mineral UV filters offer theoretically effective protection, their performance largely depends on the quality of the film formed on the skin’s surface. In real-world conditions, factors like uneven distribution, filter crystallization, solvent evaporation, and mechanical friction disrupt film cohesion and compromise the labeled SPF value. Increasing the concentration of UV filters to compensate for these losses faces several obstacles: irritation risks, poor cosmetic tolerance, and environmental impact.