New compounds offer better sun protection than common sunscreen ingredient

Scientists tested new sun-blocking chemicals inspired by a popular sunscreen ingredient. They created versions that stay stable in sunlight and protect skin better. Two of these new chemicals stood out. One absorbs mostly UVA rays, the strongest aging rays from the sun. The other blocks both UVA and UVB rays, the burning rays. Both worked better than the old ingredient at staying strong in sunlight. They also helped prevent sun damage to skin cells. Most of the new chemicals stayed on the skin surface where they were applied. Very little went deeper into the skin. When tested on eggshell membranes, they didn’t cause irritation. After applying them to skin, they didn’t change skin thickness or elasticity.The best-performing chemical nearly blocked all UVA damage to skin cells. It kept 95% of cells safe from sun damage. The other one was slightly less effective but still blocked 90% of damage. Both chemicals stayed mostly on the top layer of skin, where they’re needed most. They didn’t soak into deeper layers or enter the bloodstream. This makes them safer than some older sun filters that can be absorbed into the body. Their stability in sunlight also means they won’t break down and lose effectiveness after a few hours in the sun.