New Mineral Sunscreen Formula Reduces White Cast

Topic: Health

UCLA scientists created a new mineral sunscreen formula that reduces the white cast on skin. The new formula uses zinc oxide particles in a different shape to provide strong protection against UV radiation.

Scientists at UCLA have developed a new mineral sunscreen formula that doesn't leave a pale, chalky residue on the skin. This is important because many people don't use sun protection regularly due to the white cast left by traditional mineral sunscreens.

The researchers changed the shape of zinc oxide particles already used in many mineral sunscreens. They engineered these particles into microscopic four-armed structures called tetrapods. These particles provided strong protection against damaging ultraviolet radiation while producing less white cast than conventional zinc oxide formulas.

The results were published in ACS Materials Letters and could support skin cancer prevention by making mineral sunscreen more appealing and encouraging regular use among people with a wider variety of skin tones.

Why It Matters

This new formula matters because it can encourage people, especially those with darker skin tones, to use sun protection regularly. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and early detection is key to treatment.

Key Facts

• UCLA scientists created a new mineral sunscreen formula that reduces the white cast on skin.
• The new formula uses zinc oxide particles in a different shape to provide strong protection against UV radiation.
• The researchers changed the shape of zinc oxide particles into microscopic four-armed structures called tetrapods.
• These particles provided strong protection against damaging ultraviolet radiation while producing less white cast than conventional zinc oxide formulas.
• The results were published in ACS Materials Letters and could support skin cancer prevention.

Key Terms

Ultraviolet radiation

Harmful rays from the sun that can cause sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer

Tetrapods

Microscopic four-armed structures made of zinc oxide particles

Implications

This new formula matters because it can encourage people, especially those with darker skin tones, to use sun protection regularly. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and early detection is key to treatment.