Sunscreen: it’s a modern must-have. But have you ever wondered when it was first invented?
We slather on SPF before heading to the beach, keep it in our bags for daily use, and rely on it to protect our skin, but did you know that sunscreen hasn’t always been around?
Humans have been finding ways to shield themselves from the sun for centuries. Let’s take a trip through history and see how sunscreen has evolved from ancient times to today’s mineral formulas, like Blue Lizard.
Ancient Sun Protection
Long before commercial sunscreen existed, ancient civilizations developed their own methods to shield themselves from the sun’s harsh rays. And obviously hiding in the shade wasn’t always an option!
• The ancient Egyptians used rice bran, jasmine, and lupine extracts, which contained natural UV-absorbing properties.
• The Greeks of antiquity lathered their skin with olive oil, though it provided little actual protection. However, the loose fitting, draping fabric of their traditional clothing is said to have helped keep them cool and shielded from the sun.
• Because the Romans of old crafted so much brass, there was abundant zinc oxide around. They created zinc oxide sunscreen by adding the ingredient to a paste. So much of modern life is inspired by the Romans, because they were brilliant inventors. In fact, even today, zinc oxide is a main ingredient in our Blue Lizard formulas!
These civilizations laid the groundwork for what we now recognize as sun protection.
Who Invented Modern Sunscreen?
The first sunscreen as we know it today was developed in the 1930s and 1940s.
• In 1938, a Swiss chemist named Franz Greiter developed one of the first sun protection creams after getting a severe sunburn while climbing Mount Piz Buin. He later introduced SPF ratings, shaping how we measure sun protection today.
• In 1944, during World War II, pharmacist Benjamin Green created a red, greasy sunscreen for U.S. soldiers. This formula later evolved into the brand Coppertone.
These early innovations paved the way for modern sunscreens with better coverage and more advanced formulations.
How Does Sunscreen Work?
Sunscreen works by absorbing, reflecting, or scattering the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can help protect skin from sun damage.
Mineral sunscreens, like our formulas, use Zinc Oxide and/or Titanium Dioxide which sit on top of your skin, reflecting and scattering UV rays. These sunscreens are designed to help protect your skin by reflecting the sun's harmful rays.
Chemical sunscreens are the most common sunscreens on the market. They work by absorbing into the deeper layers of your skin and converting UV rays into heat, which is released into the skin.
The key to effective sun protection is applying enough sunscreen and reapplying regularly, especially when spending time outdoors.
Why Choose Blue Lizard?
We're all about helping you step out of the shade and live fearlessly in the sun! Our dermatologist and pediatrician trusted mineral sunscreens help deliver safe physical sun protection to you and your family. They’re even a good choice for those with sensitive skin.
Wrapping It Up
From ancient remedies to today’s dermatologist-approved mineral sunscreens, sun protection has come a long way. So, the next time you apply sunscreen, remember, you’re carrying on a centuries-old tradition of sun protection!
TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read)
• Ancient civilizations used natural ingredients like zinc and plant oils for sun protection.
• The first modern sunscreens were developed in the 1930s and 1940s.
• Sunscreen works by absorbing or reflecting harmful UV rays, which can damage skin.
• Mineral sunscreens, like Blue Lizard, use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for safe, effective sun protection.
