Sun and Sunscreen

The sun is a powerful star at the center of our universe and an essential part of our existence. It provides light, warmth, energy, and makes us happy (even when the skies are gray).

The sun has a significant influence on our skin, some positive, but also negative.

Positive effects of the sun:

Vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin) is synthesized when UVB rays from the sun meet 7-dehydrocholestrerol which then converts to pre-vitamin D3 that then isomerizes into Vitamin D3 which plays an important role in metabolic functions and skeletal health. Vitamin D deficiencies provide opportunities for many malefic physiological disorders. In summary, we need it to be able to live our best lives!

Negative effects of the sun:

The sun emits electromagnetic wavelengths of solar radiation (including UVA and UVB) that can inflict considerable stress on our largest organ, the skin. Depending on exposure, these rays can be cytotoxic (toxic to living cells), mutagenic (capable of mutating) and cause biological damage leading to a variety of skin pathologies, including but not limited to skin cancers. (Skin cancers, including melanoma and basal and squamous cell carcinomas, are the most common of all cancer types.)

The smart design of our human bodies responds to the damaging rays of the sun with a protective response of melanogenesis. Melanin, eumelanin specifically, absorbs harmful UVA, UVB, and UVC rays and protects against reactive oxygen species (ROS) by acting as an antioxidant. With age and over-exposure, the protective intention of melanin slows and often fails, leaving the skin vulnerable to free-radical assault, collagen and elastin degradation, and advanced aging. The sun does not discriminate against genetics or seasons and this is why sunscreen is an essential part of a modern healthy lifestyle.

The evolution of Sunscreen:

The idea of sun protection products is not synonymous with modern science. In fact, the first record of sun protection began with the ancient Egyptians who did not necessarily understand the harmful effects of the sun as we do now but did understand the concept of “tanning.” Their concoctions of rice bran (rich in antioxidants and recently discovered to absorb UV light), jasmine (anti-inflammatory), and lupine (skin brightener) were solely intended to be used for cosmetic purposes. Other cultures adapted recipes that included botanicals to soothe the aftereffects of sun exposure but not until recent history have we been able to understand the importance of sun and environmental protection – solar shielding.

• In the 1920s (less than 100 years ago), scientists first revealed a connection between sun exposure and skin cancers. Shortly thereafter, and under initially unrelated circumstances, the first modern sun protection products were developed.
• In 1938, Franz Greiter, a Swiss chemistry student, suffered a sunburn after hiking and set out to create a sun protection concoction.
• In 1944, during World War II, Benjamin Green, an airman, and a pharmacist shared a greasy, gooey, smelly substance called “red vet pet” (red veterinary petroleum) to protect himself and fellow soldiers from UV rays. Though unpleasant, it was an effective physical barrier between the sun and the skin. After the war, Mr. Green improved the formulation by mixing red vet pet, cocoa butter, and coconut oil. This was the beginning of Coppertone suntan cream.
• In 1946, after eight years of perfecting his formulation, Greiter’s product, called Gletscher Crème (Glacier Cream) made its market debut. It was the first to include a Sun Protection Factor. (Glacier Cream was SPF 2)
• The 1950s and 1960s continued a trend that tan skin was healthy skin and though SPF was idealized as a way to safely tan, but not to fully block sun rays. At the same time, more scientific studies linked sun exposure to skin cancer.
• In the 1970 SPiz Buin (a company started by Franz Greiter) introduces sunscreens with ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B filters and SPF advanced to 15; though most consumers weren’t sure of exactly what it meant, assuming it meant they could stay in the sun longer without re-applying. By the late 1970s, Coppertone founded the Solar Research Center and became the first company to label its products with an SPF ranking. This time period saw the beginning of advancements in formulations and application methods. Later in the decade, Zinc Oxide became the most popular ingredient in sunscreen formulations because it was so effective.
• In 1978, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration intended to regulate sunscreens, recommending standards for safety and effectiveness. These guidelines intended to mostly deal with establishing SPF testing and labeling (following Coppertone’s example).
• In 1988, The F.D.A. approves a sunscreen product containing avobenzone (chemical sunscreen), a UVA-only filter. The other approved filters until then were UVB ones that had incidental UVA protection.
• In 1997The FDA allows sunscreen makers to market the fact that their products contain avobenzone for UVA protection.
• The 2000s brought a greater understanding of the link between sun exposure and skin cancer as well as the sun’s role in advanced skin aging. We now know that 90 percent of skin cancer is contributed to by sun exposure, so a good solar shield product is vital.
• In 2017, Hawaii bans the sale of chemical ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate because of their effect on the ability of coral to reproduce and in an effort to protect its coral reefs.
• In 2019, the U.S. FDA announced that it would be re-evaluating the safety of every sunscreen ingredient moving forward.
• In 2021, several drug stores and big-box retailers began to pull certain sunscreen products from their shelves because samples indicated they contained levels of benzene, a known carcinogen.
• Physical Block sunscreen continues to be the preferred option for effective and safe sun protection

The sun is an important and essential part of life. Sun safety in modern times means being aware of sun exposure; limiting overexposure opportunities, but not eliminating outdoor activities by shuttering indoors forever. With advanced sophistication in formulation, Lira Clinical offers three Solar Shield products that consider active lifestyles while providing ultimate sun protection and hydration. By including ingredients that boast antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and heat wicking properties, the skin is not only shielded from harmful UV rays but also strengthened to combat the additional side effects of any environment. Brightening ingredients are also blended with effective botanicals to encourage healthy functioning, hydrated skin. Sun protection is not a seasonal option. Though we are heading into the longer days of summer, Solar Shield should be a daily practice all year long. Which Lira Clinical SPF Solar Shield is your favorite?