UV filters

Due to their high energy, UV rays have various harmful physiological effects on the skin. UV exposure can cause sunburn, the appearance of lines and deep wrinkles, and premature skin aging. In some cases, periodic intensive UV radiation raises the risk of skin cancer.

UV filters protect the skin against the harmful effects of UV exposure. They are widely used in sunscreens and other sun care applications.

Manufacturers also include UV filters in daily care products, including day creams, decorative cosmetics, and after-exfoliation preparations. UV filters with low skin penetration are preferable.

Skin-protecting UV filters and pigments are subject to legislation in many countries to avoid intoxication and other adverse effects. So, concentrations and combinations of those compounds are firmly controlled.

The concentrations of UV filters in sun care applications depend on the expected degree of protection, measured with a sun protection factor (SPF) coefficient or units. Usually, sunscreens are complex formulas with a broad UV spectrum of protection, combining organic and inorganic UV filters and other photostable ingredients to provide a high degree of SPF.

Modern sun care applications also contain powerful antioxidants such as vitamin C and E stable derivatives, which provide additional passive sun protection and speed up skin recovery.