UV FILTERS: WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY WORK IN COSMETICS
UV FILTERS: WHAT THEY ARE AND HOW THEY ARE REGULATED
UV filters in sun creams, lotions, fluids and sprays are substances that filter – that is, block the passage of UVA and UVB rays – through one of the following mechanisms:
MINERAL FILTERS
Physical filters act like a mirror, reflecting UV rays away from the skin’s surface.
NON-MINERAL FILTERS
Organic filters work by absorption: their molecules intercept the energy of UV radiation, absorb it and convert it into a harmless form of energy, mainly heat.
- absorption, characteristic of organic filters, whereby molecules absorb the energy of the radiation, much like tiny springs;
- reflection/scattering, typical of mineral filters (e.g. titanium dioxide), in which the particles act as tiny mirrors.
MINERAL FILTERS
Physical filters act like a mirror, reflecting UV rays away from the skin’s surface.
NON-MINERAL FILTERS
Organic filters work by absorption: their molecules intercept the energy of UV radiation, absorb it and convert it into a harmless form of energy, mainly heat.
UV FILTERS AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
In the new DEFENCE SUN range, it was essential to focus on several key areas: in terms of formulation, through the selection and optimal combination of UVA and UVB filters and the choice of the latest ingredients to ensure water resistance; and in terms of packaging, by supporting social responsibility projects linked to the marine environment.
The compatibility of these formulations with the marine ecosystem and their biodegradability in seawater have been demonstrated for all DEFENCE SUN sun protection formulas using international methods:
The compatibility of these formulations with the marine ecosystem and their biodegradability in seawater have been demonstrated for all DEFENCE SUN sun protection formulas using international methods:
- Environmental compatibility with the marine environment (EPA/600/R-95/136 Section 15, ISO 11348-3:2007, ISO 14669:99, ISO 10253:2016)
- Biodegradability in seawater (OECD 306).
SUN PROTECTION IN 4 DIMENSIONS: DEFENCE SUN
In the new DEFENCE SUN formulas, a significant advance in sun protection has become a reality thanks to PRO-REPAIR 4D technology: a cutting-edge technology that combines an extended filter system – to ensure broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection – with the NBCS complex – a patent filed by BioNike research - which helps to preserve the integrity of keratinocyte DNA and support the skin’s natural defences against stress caused by sun exposure.
This combination works synergistically to provide four-dimensional sun protection, defending the skin against both short- and long-term damage.
This combination works synergistically to provide four-dimensional sun protection, defending the skin against both short- and long-term damage.
EXTENSIVE AND COMPLEX NBCS FILTRATION SYSTEM
The first dimension: 1D – UVA and UVB filters
Filters selected for their photostability and environmental compatibility from the list of filters authorised under current legislation [Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – Annex VI]
The 2D+3D+4D dimensions for integrated protection of skin cells: the NBCS complex, which ensures protection of cellular homeostasis (energetic and osmotic), protection against free radicals caused by UV and IR radiation, and protection and repair of keratinocyte DNA.
Why NBCS?
Filters selected for their photostability and environmental compatibility from the list of filters authorised under current legislation [Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 – Annex VI]
The 2D+3D+4D dimensions for integrated protection of skin cells: the NBCS complex, which ensures protection of cellular homeostasis (energetic and osmotic), protection against free radicals caused by UV and IR radiation, and protection and repair of keratinocyte DNA.
Why NBCS?
- Niacinamide, the active form of Vitamin B3, exerts a powerful antioxidant and protective effect on cells and their DNA
- Glycine betaine, a biomolecule obtained through upcycling processes, plays a fundamental role in protecting cells from osmotic stress
- Carnosine, a physiological dipeptide, provides targeted protection against free radicals
- Sechium edule, an upcycled plant-based active ingredient, offers a dual protective action, combating free radicals and preserving the integrity of cellular DNA.
CHOICE AND SUITABLE TEXTURE FOR FACE AND BODY PROTECTION
Choosing the right texture is important because it helps make sun protection more pleasant to use.
For the body, fluid formulations – such as lotions, spray lotions, oils or liquid emulsions in aerosol cans – are particularly practical. These textures spread easily even over large areas and, in the case of 360° dispensers, allow the product to be applied comfortably even to hard-to-reach areas, as the can can be used in any position, even upside down.
For the face, it is generally best to choose specific, lightweight and comfortable textures that suit your skin type. Cream formulations are ideal for normal to dry skin, whilst fluids and cream-gels are particularly suitable for combination or oily skin thanks to their lightweight feel. For those seeking a skin-evening effect, tinted sunscreens are a good alternative: as well as protecting the skin, they help minimise the appearance of blemishes and uneven skin tone, giving a more even complexion.
FIND OUT MOREFor the body, fluid formulations – such as lotions, spray lotions, oils or liquid emulsions in aerosol cans – are particularly practical. These textures spread easily even over large areas and, in the case of 360° dispensers, allow the product to be applied comfortably even to hard-to-reach areas, as the can can be used in any position, even upside down.
For the face, it is generally best to choose specific, lightweight and comfortable textures that suit your skin type. Cream formulations are ideal for normal to dry skin, whilst fluids and cream-gels are particularly suitable for combination or oily skin thanks to their lightweight feel. For those seeking a skin-evening effect, tinted sunscreens are a good alternative: as well as protecting the skin, they help minimise the appearance of blemishes and uneven skin tone, giving a more even complexion.
LINEA DEFENCE SUN
The DEFENCE SUN range offers a comprehensive selection of products designed to meet the varying sun protection needs of adults and children, combining high efficacy, pleasant application and maximum tolerability, even for sensitive skin.
The range includes:
FIND OUT MOREThe range includes:
- Face sun protection, available in a variety of textures to suit different skin types.
- Body sun protection, in the form of lotions, sprays, fluids, oils and liquid emulsions, which are easy to apply and water-resistant.
- Sun protection specifically for children, formulated for the delicate skin of little ones.
- After-sun care, with soothing and moisturising properties, to help restore skin comfort after sun exposure.
- SUN dietary supplement, formulated with antioxidants and selected nutrients to prepare the skin for sun exposure and help protect it from oxidative stress from within.
