Scientists have developed a novel sunscreen from the pollen of tea plants, aiming to minimize environmental harm and provide strong skin protection. This unique approach comes as concerns mount over traditional chemical sunscreens, like those made with oxybenzone and octinoxate, which may damage marine life and coral reefs.
Recent research indicates that a sunscreen gel derived from camellia flowers (Camellia sinensis) can block ultraviolet rays as effectively as commercial sunblock products.
Unlike conventional formulas, the pollen gel did not trigger coral bleaching in laboratory tests, raising hopes for safer beach experiences and improved ocean health.
Why did scientists turn to pollen for sunscreen?
Pollen naturally resists ultraviolet damage to protect plant reproductive cells from harsh sunlight. Scientists at Nanyang Technological University Singapore, led by materials scientist Cho Nam-Joon, exploited these properties using pollen from camellia, a self-pollinating and usually non-allergenic tea flower.
The goal: to create a safe, sustainable, and affordable sunscreen for humans that also protects ocean ecosystems. The camellia’s pollen shell offers natural UV resistance by forming a robust barrier against sunlight.
Its non-allergenic properties make it ideal for use in cosmetic products, reducing concerns about skin irritation or allergic reactions that can occur with some plant material extracts.
Did you know?
Researchers estimate 4,000 to 14,000 tons of UV-filtering compounds from chemical sunscreens reach the ocean each year, mostly near coral reefs.
How does pollen-derived sunscreen compare to chemical options?
Tests revealed that the camellia pollen gel absorbed both UVA and UVB rays, with exceptionally strong absorption for UVB, the rays responsible for sunburn and skin cancer.
Its sun protection factor (SPF) reached about 30, matching many popular chemical sunscreens, while sunflower pollen-based gels performed less well, with SPF around 5.
When applied to skin, the camellia gel kept a test subject’s forearm 5°C (9°F) cooler in sunlight than chemical formulas.
Mice protected with the pollen gel retained stronger, thicker skin compared to those deprived of sunscreen, showing its effectiveness in real-world UV defense.
What impact does sunscreen have on coral reefs?
Chemical sunscreen compounds, notably oxybenzone and octinoxate, are linked to coral bleaching, a process that leaves coral more vulnerable to stress and environmental threats.
Annually, 4,000 to 14,000 tons of these UV filters enter oceans near tourist beaches, accumulating and degrading aquatic habitats.
In controlled saltwater experiments, corals exposed to regular sunscreen bleached rapidly, but those treated with pollen-based gels remained unbleached for two months.
This difference signals the potential for eco-friendly sunscreens to support reef conservation without compromising human sun safety.
ALSO READ | How the ozone layer became an environmental success story
How does the new gel work for skin protection?
Camellia pollen-based gel is water-based and forms a protective layer on skin. It absorbs and scatters harmful UV rays before they can penetrate, and its natural composition limits allergic reactions for most users.
Applied to experimental animals and human volunteers, the gel showed marked defense against short- and long-wave UV exposure while keeping skin cool.
The innovative sunscreen lays the foundation for further breakthroughs in sustainable sun protection. Researchers highlight its suitability for broad use, especially in ecologically fragile regions.
What’s next for plant-based sun protection?
While current results are promising, further research is needed on toxicity for other wildlife and long-term human safety.
Subject to successful trials, eco-friendly pollen sunscreens could become commercially available in five to eight years.
Scientists envision a future with diverse, reef-safe products derived from nature, offering new choices for mindful beachgoers and conservationists alike.
Plant-based, eco-friendly sunscreens like this highlight how scientific discovery can address environmental and health needs together.
With the sunscreen’s successful coral safety trials and competitive UV protection, it may pave the way for the next generation of sustainable sun care products.
Comments (0)
Please sign in to leave a comment