Every year, scientists put their knowledge to work in their laboratories to point out the strengths and weaknesses of the solar radiation resistance of different products, whether it’s a cosmetic, a sunscreen or even a sun-resistant shirt. Solar Light was founded in 1967, and since then, we’ve developed and refined the most effective instruments for testing sun protection products. That’s our obligation as a research and development company, offering honest, practical solutions.
Through consultation with industry professionals, we’re able to see trends and quickly react to changes, to ensure that the test procedures help create the most superior sun protection products possible. With the vast assortment of sun protection products on retailers’ shelves, we genuinely want our visitors and clients to create competitive products. And, with over 15,000 customers globally, we have a pretty good idea of what the industry is looking for. As they work to develop new products, the following considerations are paramount:
Use High Quality Bases – The days of using basic lotions to make sunscreens are over. With all of the knowledge spreading on good skin care and cancer awareness, people are more cautious than ever about their sunscreens—the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) even released a report on all of the toxic chemicals that have been used in sunscreens of the past. It’s more and more commonplace in the modern age to see sun protection products backed by coconut oil, carrot seed oil and shea butter.
Use Pleasing Yet Non-Allergenic Scents – It’s good to have a nice scent to the product, though it’s not a pre-requisite. Sometimes, using high-quality products like coconut oil or shea butter, the product will have a naturally nice smell.
Create Products Easy on the Eyes – It’s one thing to make products for adults—but more often than not, sunscreen is being used on at-risk individuals who may not understand the dangers of solar radiation exposure. This includes the very old and very young. Other people may not have a choice but to wear sun protection all the time. Individuals with pigment deficiencies or other illnesses, or those on medications that make them vulnerable to solar radiation will be in the market for a sunscreen to wear 24/7.
Be Open in Your Advertising – Use Substances People Know – As we said earlier, skin health and cancer awareness are at all-time highs right now. Avoid the chemicals with bad reputations, even if they seem cost-efficient, and find alternatives!
Make a Product that is Water/Sweat Resistant – Think about when people are using sunscreen. It’s not as hard as one might think to make a product with high SPF and then boast its sun protection properties, only to find out that it comes off with a light sweat or a little rain. Make the product more relevant all of the time and more people will be interested in it.
Make Sure the Product is Skin Allergy Friendly – These days, young children and elderly individuals are using sunscreen to help with their vulnerabilities more and more. Nobody wants to don sun protection only to find it’s making them break out into hives or rashes. Use non-allergenic products. If the product contains something that’s potentially allergenic, that should be crystal clear on the packaging and product description.
Remember that there are two types of solar radiation, UVA and UVB. It’s important to deliver a product that is both useful and cost effective. Make sure the product delivers exactly what it says it will, and doesn’t use any environmentally unsafe or carcinogenic chemicals. The most important thing when creating a sun protection product is careful, comprehensive research before releasing anything on to the market. That’s where The Solar Light Company comes into play. Contact us today by phone at 215.517.8700 or by e-mail at [email protected].
