Scientists develop cooling sunscreen

Researchers claim that a new sunscreen produced using pollen from camellia flowers will not only block the sun's harmful UV rays but also keep users cool and reduce the ecological impact of traditional protective sunscreens.

Materials scientists from Nanyang Technological University (NTU) in Singapore have shown in experiments that pollen-based sunscreens absorb and block UV rays as effectively as commercial sunscreens using minerals such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.

According to details reported by Independent Turkish, the research team said their tests revealed that camellia pollen-based sunscreens have the "ability to reduce skin surface temperature and thereby keep the skin cool under simulated sunlight."

This effect means the skin temperature remains approximately 5 degrees Celsius cooler for 20 minutes compared to other commercially available sunscreens.

The team attributed the cooling effect to pollen's natural properties, which absorb less energy in the visible and near-infrared spectrum (the wavelengths largely responsible for heat generation). The team assessed the environmental impact of sunscreens by examining their effects on corals compared to standard sunscreens.

They found that commercial sunscreens caused coral bleaching in just two days and death by day 6. Pollen-based sunscreens, in contrast, had no effect on the corals, and the corals remained healthy for up to 60 days.

Researchers noted that an estimated 6,000 to 14,000 tons of commercial sunscreen enters the ocean each year through human runoff or wastewater.

The study's lead author, Professor Cho Nam-Joon, Head of the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at NTU Singapore, said pollen is widely available and frequently consumed for its health benefits.

"We know that pollen is naturally resistant to UV radiation because its shell needs to protect its internal components from harsh environmental conditions, including sunlight. Our research aimed to develop a way to transform pollen grains into a gel-like form so they can be easily applied to human skin," explained Prof. Cho, who is also NTU's Director of Pioneer Programs and Director of the Cross-Economy Centre at NTU.

We wanted to develop a natural sunscreen that was non-allergenic, environmentally friendly, affordable, and effective for humans. NTU leveraged its deep expertise in this area. Materials science and engineering are being used to develop sustainable, real-world solutions that have an impact on both humanity and the planet.

For those worried about pollen triggering hay fever, the team allayed these concerns by noting that not all types of pollen cause allergies, and camellia pollen is generally non-allergenic because it is a self-pollinating flower.

So when can we get our hands on this magical sun elixir and why haven't we been cooling ourselves off this summer of record-breaking temperatures?

The sunscreen isn't ready yet, but the team said they are considering developing the technology with the university and also hope to work with industry partners to commercialize the product.