The need to protect ourselves from the sun and the irreparable damage it causes to our skin is a common topic in the media and skin care articles. According to researchers, Spain is one of the European countries that will suffer the most from the consequences of climate change in the coming years.

Studies indicate that future summers will be hotter and longer, and that winters will be warmer . Good news for the development and sales of sunscreen products that are about to go on the market. Historically, sales of these products are associated with the summer months, but these predictions are expected to alter consumer trends, making sales less seasonal.

The social implications of sunlight

Sunlight has always played a fundamental role in human evolution as the synthesis of vitamin D, essential to bone development, needs sunlight. Although the human body has melanin that acts as a physical and chemical barrier to the harmful effects of UV rays, it does not provide enough protection. Every day more is known about the harmful effects (both visible and invisible), caused by sunlight on the skin yet many people are still ignorant of the dangers of daily exposure to radiation without protection.

Throughout history, having paler skin was a symbol of distinction, separating the upper class from working class, who were tanned from working outdoors under the sun without any protection.

In the early twentieth century, scientific advances revealed the therapeutic benefits of sunlight and many experts began to recommend sunbathing for numerous diseases. Almost overnight, European high society decided that having pale skin was no longer attractive, creating an industry of fashionable cosmetics.

New services

AITEX has incorporated and developed cutting-edge equipment to measure the sun protection factor of solar products both “in vivo” and “in vitro”.

The equipment allows us to carry out multiple high performance SPF (Sun Protection Factor) tests and dermatological studies quickly. The simulators meet the latest spectral irradiation standards: ISO – International Organization for Standardization, FDA – Food and Drug Administration, JCIA – Japan Cosmetic Industry Association and COLIPA – The European Cosmetic and Perfumery Association.

In addition, the systems are fully integrated for a fast, efficient and accurate analysis of the UV transmittance of sunscreens, liquids, lotions, creams, textiles, spray, gels, powders, emulsions, etc.