Thermal power: Shiseido plans to release new sun care products which strengthen with heat

According to the Japanese cosmetic maker, sunscreen formulas are most effective when they are molecularly uniform. This led it to research methods of creating an even layer of protection from ultraviolet (UV) rays on the skin.

In order to achieve uniformity, the company’s research and development team successfully developed a UV protection technology which evens out when exposed to the sun’s heat.

According to the company’s research, the surface temperature of the skin can hit 40°C in a matter of minutes. To utilise this “heat energy”, ​it developed a thermal energy sensor which starts to work when the skin surface temperature pushes 37°C.

“When the thermal energy sensor senses heat, it spreads uniformly in the coating film along with UV protection components and maintains a clean state. This way, the UV protection component can fully demonstrate its ability and the UV protection effect is improved,” ​the company explained.

The firm said it has applied its new breakthrough technology into its sun protection products and expects these new and more effective products to hit the shelves next spring.

It added that the new technology can also be applied to other categories such as make-up.

Sun care innovator

Shiseido has been engaged in R&D of UV protection to meet the needs of consumers who are exposed to the harmful effects of UV rays. It has developed various new technologies and products that protect the skin from UV rays more effectively.

In 2014, it announced the development of WetForce technology, which interacts with water or perspiration to create a more uniform UV shield on the skin and boost UV protection by about 120%.

The firm is the manufacturer of several popular sun protection products from brands such as Anessa and Shiseido that utilise WetForce technology.

By combining WetForce with the new technology, Shiseido could potential develop sun care products that stay effective through heat, sweat and water.

The company said its research into UV protection has become increasingly important as beauty consumers are now living more active lifestyles.

Moving forward, the company plans to continue its research into UV protection. “We will continue to support active and free lifestyles by protecting the skin from ultraviolet rays more effectively.”​