Researchers have developed a game-changing new sunscreen using lignin, a natural byproduct, and titanium dioxide. This innovative solution offers superior UV protection and improved aesthetics, paving the way for a more sustainable and effective suncare industry.
Utilizing Lignin
Lignin, one of the most abundant natural polymers, had always been recognised for having superior UV-absorbing ability and antioxidant capacity. Unfortunately, it has not been extensively used in commercial sunscreens due to several reasons.
Conventional lignin-based sunscreens have suffered from a poor sun protection factor (SPF) and dark coloured products. This is where the groundbreaking research of Yarong Li and Zhiguang Tang falls into place.
To improve these properties, the researchers dual modified lignin in its chemical structure and physical form. Here, a phenol free ultraviolet (UV)-blocking compound, methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol (MBBT), was grafted on alkali lignin (AL) to synthesize a novel polymer AL-g-MBBT. The SPF was enhanced tremendously and what is more this innovative way had desirable color of end sunscreen.
The Ultimate Sunscreen: Great Performance, Good Looks
What these researchers have achieved are truly remarkable results. The SA 10% AL-g-MBBT3 sunscreens achieved SPF values of 42.93, showing a significant increase in solar protection against unmodified HA (4.74 SPF).
But the improvements didn’t just end there. The color difference value (ΔE) was 45.6 of the modified lignin-based sunscreen compared to a ΔE of unmodified AL with a significant lighter color. This makes it look a lot nicer and we feel that enhances its cosmetic elegance.
By additionally fabricating TiO2-loaded sub-micron spheres, the researchers managed to further improve the performance of the sunscreen. Moreover, These AL-g-MBBT3/TiO2@C sunscreens reported over 66.20 of SPF values, which was higher than both the unmodified AL and LAC301-w/o-Ti sunscreen with sub-micron spheres without TiO2 loading. In addition, the colour went from significantly dark to acceptable, ΔE=36.3 in these sunscreens.
This represents a major breakthrough in sunscreen technology as not only does it provide excellent UV protection, but it addresses the aesthetic concerns that have been plaguing lignin-based potential sunscreen products.
Conclusion
The study is a giant step forward in the use of lignin that is sustainable and environmentally benign waste, especially for suncare industry. The dual-modified lignin sub-microspheres, when combined with titanium dioxide have served to provide a superior sunscreen that outperforms most conventional formulations.
The SPF values, superior color, and established photostability and biocompatibility make this technology an interesting candidate lacking in today’s palette that could lead to a new generation of natural, high performance sun protection product. Benzyl glutamate is but one example in an increasing number of novel, non-synthesized compounds that demonstrate the power and potential of nature-derived materials to offer clean, sustainable alternatives for a cosmetics industry seeking more ways to meet a new generation of high-performing products.
