The Future of Sunscreen: FDA Innovations, SPF Tech & Global Trends

Posted by Invity team on 4th May 2025

The Future of Sun Protection: Innovations in Sunscreen Technology

Sunscreen has come a long way from where it began. What was once a thick, greasy lotion designed solely to block the sun’s rays has evolved into a sophisticated skincare product that not only protects but also nourishes and improves the skin.

With growing awareness of the importance of sun protection, the sunscreen industry is booming, and innovations are emerging at a rapid pace. From ingestible sun care to microbiome-focused formulas, let’s go over some of the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of sunscreen.

What’s Driving Sunscreen Innovation?

The global sunscreen market is currently valued at €20 billion1, but its potential is estimated at a staggering €177 billion. This growth is fuelled by rising consumer demand for products that do more than just protect against UV rays. People want sunscreens that are lightweight, hydrating and suitable for their specific skin type, such as skin that’s sensitive, acne-prone or deep-toned.

In regions like Asia, where skincare is a lifestyle, sunscreens also offer additional benefits like brightening, anti-ageing and pollution protection. Meanwhile, in the U.S. and Europe, consumers are gravitating toward moisturising SPF products that feel like a natural part of their skincare routine.

What exactly does the sun do to the skin? Read all about the sun and the skin!

What Was Used Before Sunscreen?

Before modern sunscreen, people used a variety of natural methods and substances to protect their skin from the sun, whether it be pastes or forms of clothing and accessories. For example:

Clothing and Hats: Wearing long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats and other protective clothing was, and still is, one of the simplest ways to shield the skin from the sun.
Shade: Staying in the shade, whether under trees, umbrellas or other coverings, was a common practice to avoid direct sunlight.
Natural Oils and Extracts: Various cultures used natural oils and plant extracts to protect their skin. For example2:

Olive Oil: Used in ancient Greece.
Rice Bran Oil: Used in Asia.
Jojoba Oil: Used by Native Americans.
Shea Butter: Used in Africa.

Mud and Clay: Some people applied mud or clay to their skin, which created a physical barrier against the sun.
Tents and Shelters: Nomadic and outdoor-living cultures often used tents and other portable shelters to protect themselves from the sun.

These methods were not as effective as modern sunscreens but provided some level of protection against the harmful effects of the sun.

What Does SPF Really Mean?

Ever wondered, ‘SPF rating meaning?’

SPF, or Sun Protection Factor, measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn, however, it doesn’t account for UVA rays, which penetrate deeper into the skin and cause premature ageing and DNA damage.

SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
SPF 50: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
Broad-Spectrum Protection: Look for this label to ensure protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

What are the Innovations in Sunscreen?

Mineral and Hybrid Sunscreens

Traditional chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays and convert them into heat but concerns about their potential environmental and hormonal impacts have led to a surge in mineral-based alternatives. Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, use ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to reflect and scatter UV rays.

Why It’s Popular: Mineral sunscreens are considered safer for sensitive skin and more environmentally friendly.
The Challenge: Historically, these formulas left a white cast, making them less appealing for deeper skin tones.
The Solution: Brands are now developing lightweight, hybrid formulas that combine mineral and chemical filters to prevent the white cast while still maintaining high SPF protection.

The Youth Activating Invisible Mineral Sunscreen is 100% mineral sunscreen but still lightweight, hydrating and full of ingredients that improve your skin.

2. Ingestible Sun Care

Sunscreen you can eat! Ingestible sun care supplements are designed to boost the skin’s natural defences against UV radiation from within.

How It Works: These supplements contain antioxidants like lycopene, beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, which help protect skin cells from oxidative stress caused by sun exposure.
Examples:
- Lumina 365 by Tosla Nutricosmetics: A blend of Calaguala rhizome extract and blood orange fruit extract that increased participants’ UVB tolerance by 23.8% in clinical trials3.
- Heliocare by Cantabria Labs: Features Fernblock, a patented ingredient derived from a tropical fern, to protect skin cells and DNA from sun damage.

3. Microbiome-Focused Sunscreens

The skin’s microbiome, or the community of microorganisms living on its surface, plays a crucial role in maintaining skin health. Brands are now developing sunscreens that protect the skin while preserving its microbiome balance.

Example: Beiersdorf has partnered with biotech firm Macro Biologics to create antimicrobial peptides that target harmful bacteria without disrupting beneficial microbes.

4. AI-Driven Personalised Skincare

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising skincare by offering personalised product recommendations.

How It Works: Devices like L’Oréal’s Cell BioPrint analyse skin proteins to assess ageing and predict how your skin will respond to different ingredients.
The Result: Tailored sunscreen recommendations that address your unique skin concerns.

5. Improved Textures and Formats

Gone are the days of thick, greasy sunscreens. Today’s facial sunscreen formulas are lightweight, fast-absorbing and even luxurious.

Popular Formats:

Powder Sunscreens: Perfect for touch-ups and oily skin types.
Water-Oil Bi-Phase Formulas: Offer a refreshing, hydrating feel.
Balm-to-Powder Textures: Provide a matte finish without drying out the skin.

To help improve the texture of your skin, you can also try out Invity’s Youth Activating Essence, as it protects your skin barrier, evens out skin tone and reduces the appearance of fine lines.

Learn more about your skin, such as how to prevent and treat hyperpigmentation.

What is the FDA Innovation Act for Sunscreen?

In the U.S., sunscreen is classified as a drug, and for FDA sunscreen approval, this means it must undergo rigorous testing and approval by the FDA. The thing is, the last new sunscreen ingredient approved by the FDA was in 1999. This has led to a lag in innovation compared to regions like Europe and Asia, where newer, more advanced UV filters are readily available.

The FDA Innovation Act aims to streamline the approval process for new sunscreen ingredients, paving the way for more effective and innovative products in the U.S. market.

Many governing bodies have similar government organisations that regulate goods, such as the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia. In Australia, sunscreens must comply with the Australian Sunscreen Standard to be registered, after which they can be supplied to the public.

The Rise of Korean and Japanese Sunscreens

Korean and Japanese sunscreens have set a new standard for sun protection, combining advanced technology with skincare benefits.

Why They’re Different:

Advanced UV Filters: Ingredients like Tinosorb S and Uvinul A Plus offer broad-spectrum protection without the white cast.
Skincare Benefits: Many formulas include hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, soothing agents like cica, and brightening compounds like niacinamide.
Lightweight Textures: These sunscreens are designed to feel like a serum or moisturiser, making them great to use daily under makeup.

Popular Ingredients:

Centella Asiatica (Cica): Soothes and repairs the skin barrier.
Adenosine: Helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Ceramides: Strengthen the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

For more hydration in your skincare routine, try Invity’s Youth Activating Cream Concentrate, which also improves your skin’s firmness and elasticity, and helps with skin regeneration.

What’s Could Be Next for Sunscreen?

The future of sunscreen is bright, with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity and personalisation. Expect to see more innovations like:

Biotechnology-Derived Ingredients: Sustainable, high-performance actives that address ageing and skin health.
Smart Sunscreens: Formulas that adapt to your skin’s needs in real time.
Even Lighter Textures: Sunscreens that feel like nothing on the skin but offer maximum protection.

Unlock the secrets for each decade to make sure you have ageless skin as you get older.

What is the Trend in the Sunscreen Industry?

The future of sunscreen is something to look forward to but, as for now, here are some sunscreen market trends:

Trend	Description
Multifunctional SPF	Sunscreens that hydrate, brighten and protect.
Eco-Friendly Formulas	Reef-safe ingredients and sustainable packaging.
Inclusive Shades	Tinted sunscreens for a wide range of skin tones.
Powder and Spray SPF	Convenient formats for on-the-go application, even on top of makeup.
Global Growth	Increasing demand in markets like India, Indonesia and the Philippines.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen for You

With so many options available, finding the perfect sunscreen can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide:

Skin Type	Recommended Sunscreen
Oily/Acne-Prone	Lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas with a matte finish (e.g., powder or gel sunscreens).
Dry Skin	Hydrating formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid and ceramides.
Sensitive Skin	Mineral-based sunscreens with soothing ingredients like cica and aloe vera.
Deeper Skin Tones	Hybrid or chemical sunscreens with no white cast or tinted formulas.
Active Lifestyles	Water-resistant, sweat-proof formulas with high SPF.

It’s Time to Add Sunscreen to Your Daily Skincare Routine

Sunscreen is no longer just a summer essential — it’s a year-round skincare staple.

With advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on skin health, the next generation of sunscreens will be more effective, better to use and more inclusive than ever before. Whether you’re looking for a mineral formula, a hybrid SPF or a Korean sunscreen with added skincare benefits, there’s something out there for everyone.

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