Knowledge, doubts and hypotheses about UV filters

The sun – our daily energy booster or the silent culprit of wrinkles? Cosmetics with UV filters spark heated debate: some see them as a shield, others suspect chemical conspiracies. There's also an intriguing theory I picked up somewhere: do sunglasses, by blocking UV rays in the eyes, send "conflicting signals" to the brain, thus affecting the skin's response?

Sun and skin: vitality or photoaging?

Sunlight is a natural source of vitamin D – it supports immunity, improves mood, and strengthens bones. Just 15 minutes of exposure to exposed skin is enough to provide the body with a healthy dose. Some SM profiles, such as "Blue Zone," often emphasize that moderate sun exposure is not only "vital energy" but also a natural way to achieve radiant skin. There's also a growing consensus that avoiding the sun can weaken us physically and mentally, and that a tan remains a symbol of health and vitality.

On the other hand, UVA and UVB rays accelerate photoaging—causing wrinkles, discoloration, and loss of firmness. UVA penetrates deeply, destroying collagen, while UVB can cause sunburn. Dermatologists recommend protection, but social media increasingly suggests that sun exposure—if kept sensible and brief—can be beneficial. So... where does the truth lie?

Sunglasses: Protection or Trouble for Your Skin?

A theory I found in discussions inspired by "Blue Zone" suggests that sunglasses can disrupt the skin's natural response to the sun. The idea is that by blocking UV rays from the eyes, we cut off information about exposure levels from the brain—which supposedly can weaken protective mechanisms, such as melanin production.

According to this hypothesis, skin deprived of consistent signals becomes more susceptible to damage or tans unevenly. Some posts even suggest that the eyes act like a "UV sensor"—without UV rays reaching the retina, the body can become "disoriented." It sounds futuristic, but really... who knows? (I haven't found any research on this, though—though I didn't expect any either 😉 ).

UV Filters: Necessity or Chemical Evil?

Sunscreen cosmetics are divided into chemical (e.g., oxybenzone, octinoxate) and mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide). Chemical filters are controversial, with claims that they are toxic, may disrupt hormonal balance, or harm the environment. However, the SCCS (Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety) offers reassurance: filters approved in the EU are safe and effectively protect against UV radiation.

Mineral filters are considered gentler, especially for sensitive skin. Modern formulas with nanoparticles minimize the whitening effect, but concerns also arise: can nanoparticles penetrate the skin? And does it harm water, fish, and reefs? SCCS assures: concentrations up to 25% are safe—as long as the filters are not inhaled in the spray.

Hypotheses and controversies

The internet doesn't disappoint: there's no shortage of theories that filters are a corporate conspiracy, and that some ingredients—like oxybenzone—are toxic. Scientists deny this, but it's worth remembering that some research is sponsored by the pharmaceutical industry.

The other side of the argument, however, argues that excessive sun protection weakens our natural immunity and deprives us of vitamin D and—warning—"vital energy." Proponents of this philosophy say: fewer cosmetics, more nature, and the skin will learn to defend itself. Perhaps the key is simply... balance?

Skin Aging: Sun vs. Filters

We know that UVA rays accelerate aging. SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays, but UVA protection is a separate topic – look for PPD labels or the UVA symbol in a circle.

Daily sunscreen use is a cornerstone of the "pro-aging" philosophy—that is, healthy aging. But alternatives are popping up on social media: an antioxidant diet + moderate sun exposure = radiant skin without tons of cosmetics. Does it work? It's hard to say—but it sounds tempting.

Some interesting facts for dessert:

1. Lycopene from tomatoes may act as an "internal UV filter." Studies show that diets rich in lycopene (e.g., tomato sauce, watermelon) increase skin's resistance to sunburn by up to 25-30%.
2. Coffee and UV protection? Yes! Caffeine in the diet can reduce UV-induced DNA damage – it acts as an internal antioxidant. Apparently, it's worth drinking your morning coffee... in the sun.
3. The time of day matters – rays before 10:00 AM contain more infrared light, which supports skin regeneration. UV becomes more intense in the afternoon. Morning sun as a ritual? Sounds like a plan.

What do you think?

Is a daily dose of sunshine enough to maintain healthy skin? Do you never leave the house without sunscreen? Or maybe sunglasses aren't as innocent as they seem? Share your thoughts – a comment or an experience from your own skincare journey.

At Tuulia, we're still debating whether to even consider sunscreen. If so, it should be done with full respect for nature and our bodies. For now, we're opting for sun-soothing products like Marigold Glow , our beloved moisturizing and soothing cream.

See you in the light!

Justyna