Claimed to command over 70% of the Korean sunscreen market, the firm established the industry’s first “UV Tech Innovation Lab” in 2022 and has obtained more than 70 patents related to UV protection to date.
Kolmar Korea announced on March 25 that it has developed the world’s first hybrid composite sunscreen stabilisation technology, which encapsulates inorganic sunscreen particles with organic sunscreen components.
This innovation, called UV-DUO PLUS, addresses the shortcomings of traditional hybrid sunscreens, where particle aggregation often led to gaps in the UV protection film.
Sunscreens are categorised into organic and inorganic types based on their UV protection mechanisms — organic sunscreens absorb and convert UV rays into heat energy, offering smooth application and reduced white cast; inorganic sunscreens reflect UV rays from the skin, providing strong UV protection but often leaving a white cast.
Hybrid sunscreens combine these mechanisms to maximise benefits, although technical challenges, such as ingredient aggregation, have hindered optimal performance.
The UV-DUO PLUS technology overcomes these issues by introducing a new composite raw material. By coating inorganic sunscreen particles with organic components, this technology ensures even dispersion within formulations.
Furthermore, the technology not only blocks UV rays efficiently but also targets long-wavelength ultraviolet (UVA), which accelerates photoageing.
Clinical tests on human skin demonstrated that sun care products incorporating UV-DUO PLUS technology improved UVA-blocking efficiency by 24.8% in the 400 nanometres range, compared to conventional sunscreens.
“While hybrid sunscreens that mix two ingredients are already available, no product has achieved a perfect integration of organic and inorganic components. With UV-DUO PLUS technology, we aim to lead K-beauty sun care innovation and expand our reach in both domestic and international markets,” the company said.
A boost for expansion
According to Kolmar Korea, it has secured a patent for the UV-DUO PLUS technology, catapulting itself to the front of the emerging hybrid composite sunscreen market.
“Sunscreens developed using this technology achieve SPF 50+ PA++++ protection and have been recognised as functional UV-blocking cosmetics by South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS).
“Additionally, Kolmar Korea is pursuing international patent applications (PCT) to expand its presence in global markets.”
In the US, where sunscreens face stringent regulatory requirements, the company said that it has solidified its position as a pioneer in the category.
In 2013, it became the first company in the industry to obtain over-the-counter (OTC) certification from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Notably, its second US plant, located in Pennsylvania and slated to begin operations in the first half of 2025, will increase Kolmar’s annual production capacity in North America from 180m to 300m units.
