Scientists at UCLA have made a new mineral sunscreen that does not leave a thick white film on the skin.
Doctors tell us to use sunscreen every day because the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause skin cancer, the most common cancer in the United States. However, many people skip sunscreen because the traditional mineral version looks chalky, especially on darker skin.
Changing Zinc Oxide to Stop the White Cast
Instead of inventing a brand‑new chemical, the UCLA team changed the shape of the zinc oxide particles already used in many sunscreens. They turned the tiny particles into four‑armed structures called tetrapods.
These tetrapod particles still block UV rays well, but they scatter less visible light, so the sunscreen looks more natural on the skin.
Why Appearance Matters
People with darker skin often use sunscreen less often and are more likely to be diagnosed with skin cancer at a later stage. A sunscreen that blends in can encourage more regular use.
How the New Particles Work
Regular zinc oxide particles are round and tend to clump together. The clumps reflect light and create the white or gray layer that people notice.
The new tetrapod particles are larger and have a shape that prevents clumping. They form a porous network that stays evenly spread in the lotion.
Performance and Stability
When tested at the same concentration as normal zinc oxide, the tetrapod sunscreen achieved an SPF of about 30 – the same protection level as typical mineral sunscreens.
It also stayed stable longer, showing less separation or thickening over time.
In lab tests and on skin, the tetrapod formula gave a warmer tone that matched natural skin colors, without the strong white cast of conventional products. No extra pigments or coatings were needed.
Next Steps
The formula still needs more testing before it can be sold. The researchers are working with UCLA’s dermatology department and its Skin of Color Clinic to study how the particles interact with the skin’s microbiome.
“The best sunscreen is the one people actually use,” said the lead researcher. “If zinc oxide looks better on more skin tones without losing protection, more people will protect themselves from harmful sun rays.”
Key Takeaways
- Traditional mineral sunscreens can leave a visible white or chalky layer.
- UCLA scientists reshaped zinc oxide into four‑armed tetrapods, reducing that white cast.
- Lab tests show the new formula provides SPF 30 protection and looks closer to natural skin tones.