Sunscreen is a year-round essential, and researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have developed a new formula made from camellia flower pollen. The innovative gel blocks harmful ultraviolet rays while cooling the skin and reducing the environmental footprint of conventional sunscreens.

Cooling Properties Proven in Tests

In laboratory tests, the pollen-based sunscreen absorbed and blocked UV rays as effectively as commercial products that typically rely on titanium dioxide or zinc oxide. Unlike standard sunscreens, however, it reduced skin surface temperature by around 5°C for 20 minutes, offering a cooling effect.

Researchers attribute this to the natural properties of pollen, which absorbs less energy in the visible and near-infrared spectrum—wavelengths responsible for heat generation.

Coral Reef Safety and Environmental Impact

The team also assessed its environmental impact. Commercial sunscreens caused coral bleaching within two days and coral death within six days in experiments. In contrast, the pollen sunscreen left corals unaffected for at least 60 days.

Every year, an estimated 6,000 to 14,000 tons of conventional sunscreen end up in the sea, either washed off swimmers’ skin or through wastewater. The new product could help ease this burden.

Allergy Concerns Addressed

Study lead Professor Cho Nam-Joon explained that pollen is naturally UV-resistant and widely consumed for health benefits. The research team processed camellia pollen into a gel form suitable for skin application.

For those concerned about allergies, the scientists stressed that not all types of pollen trigger reactions. Camellia pollen is considered non-allergenic because the plant self-pollinates.