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Rare colorless carotenoids emerge as multifunctional ingredients for beauty and health

Researchers successfully isolated highly pure geometric isomers of phytoene and phytofluene, revealing distinct ultraviolet absorption characteristics and different responses to light- and heat-induced isomerization. The study demonstrated strong UV-A-shielding capacity and antioxidant activity for these colorless carotenoids.

SourceMeijo University·JournalFood Research International·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2026

A marine-inspired sunscreen ingredient made by E. coli

Researchers engineered E. coli microbes to produce the UV-protective compound gadusol, increasing yield by nearly 93 times and showing promise in antioxidant tests. The compound may become an attractive ingredient for sunscreens and skin-care products, offering a greener alternative to traditional ingredients.

SourceCell Press·JournalTrends in Biotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2026
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Spent hop derived from beer production is incorporated into sunscreen

Researchers at the University of São Paulo discovered that spent hops can be used as an active ingredient in sunscreens. The study found that the reused substance is more effective than traditional substances, due to the elimination of volatile compounds involved in beer production.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalPhotochem·DateApr 29, 2026

UCLA researchers develop mineral sunscreen that reduces white cast

Researchers at UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center developed a new zinc oxide formulation that significantly reduces the white, chalky cast associated with traditional mineral sunscreens. The tetrapod-shaped particles provide strong protection against UV radiation while staying evenly distributed in the sunscreen.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalACS Materials Letters·DateFeb 3, 2026
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Two-dimensional TiO2 ultraviolet filters for sunscreens

Researchers unveil ultra-thin TiO2 flakes that outperform traditional nanoparticles on transparency, penetration, phototoxicity and spectrum. The new sunscreen platform achieves unparalleled NAF, negligible skin permeation and reduced DNA-damage risk.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Assessing the potential of genotoxicity and phototoxicity of triazine UV filters

Researchers found no significant genotoxic effects of triazine UV filters in bacterial reverse mutation, chromosomal aberration, and micronucleus assays. Phototoxicity assessments also confirmed safety using 3T3 neutral red uptake and guinea pig models. The results support the use of these filters in topical applications.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2025

TikTok teen skin-care routines are harmful

A study found that teenage girls using multiple products on their faces increase the risk of skin irritation and allergy. The average cost of a daily skin care regimen is $168, with some costing over $500.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPEDIATRICS·DateJun 9, 2025

Blind to the burn: Misconceptions about skin cancer risk in the US

Researchers investigated skin cancer risk perceptions and sun-protective behaviors in US adults, finding associations between sociodemographic factors and sunburn risks. Higher education levels, Hispanic origin, and income groups were linked to lower sunburn risks, while married or partnered individuals had higher risks.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalAmerican Journal of Lifestyle Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateMar 12, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Sunscreen's potential impact on marine life needs urgent investigation

New study highlights significant gaps in understanding how sunscreens affect marine ecosystems, with chemicals entering the environment through various pathways. Researchers emphasize the need for comprehensive studies to understand the effects of UV filters on marine life and potential risks to human health.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 18, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Turning back the clock on photoaging skin

Researchers found that injecting cross-linked hyaluronic acid dermal filler into photoaged skin stimulates collagen production within weeks, leading to short-term and long-term clinical improvements. The filler promotes the accumulation of new collagen over time, reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalExperimental Dermatology·DateFeb 14, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Traces of sunscreen agents in the snow at the North Pole

Researchers discovered traces of sunscreen agents in Arctic snow, with highest concentrations found in winter. The study suggests these contaminants are transported from lower latitudes via atmospheric circulation.

SourceUniversità Ca' Foscari Venezia·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 20, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

UMass Amherst researcher shines light on effectiveness of school sunscreen legislation

New research by UMass Amherst economist Brandyn Churchill links state-level 'SUNucate' laws to increased interest in sun protection, with a notable increase in sunscreen use among high school students. The legislation is associated with higher Google search volumes and awareness among historically low-users.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalHealth Behavior and Policy Review·TypeObservational study·DateSep 5, 2023

Hole in one, not hole from sun

A new study from the University of South Australia reveals that golfers have a higher lifetime prevalence of skin cancer compared to the general population. The research highlights the importance of sun protection strategies for golfers, who spend extended periods in the sun.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalBMJ Open Sport & Exercise Medicine·TypeSurvey·DateJul 31, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Coral-friendly sunscreen provides better UV protection than existing options

Researchers developed a coral-reef-friendly sunscreen by using polymerization to create large molecules that block UV radiation without penetrating skin or coral. The new filter was found to be more effective at preventing sunburn in mice than existing sunscreens, while also being safe for coral and algae.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Gene cluster reshuffling drives natural sunscreen evolution in lichens

Lichen-forming fungi have evolved unique gene clusters to produce orange 'sunscreen' pigments, allowing them to thrive in sunny environments. The discovery of a critical ABC transporter gene within the pigment gene cluster provides a potential hypothesis for toxicity avoidance in these organisms.

SourceSMBE Journals (Molecular Biology and Evolution and Genome Biology and Evolution)·JournalGenome Biology and Evolution·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

Take the burn out of sunscreen testing: Experts

Researchers propose a roadmap for developing reproducible human-free sunscreen testing, reducing ethical concerns and increasing innovation in sunscreen development. The Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency and Cancer Council Victoria support the shift, emphasizing the importance of sun protection and prevention.

SourceRMIT University·JournalTrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry·TypeSystematic review·DateJul 14, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

White iron rust material provides safe UV protection

Researchers developed an iron oxide-based ultraviolet-absorbing powder material, which can neutralize UV radiation and is safer than titanium dioxide. The material was found to have comparable performance and stability to TiO2 materials currently used in sunscreens.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalMaterials Today Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2022

How stressed-out plants produce their own aspirin

Researchers discovered that stressed plants produce salicylic acid, a protective hormone, to counteract stress caused by climate change. This discovery could help plants survive increasing stress and ultimately protect the food supply.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Understanding how sunscreens damage coral

A new Stanford University study reveals that sunscreens containing oxybenzone can damage coral reefs, hastening their demise. The researchers found that oxybenzone forms damaging radicals when exposed to sunlight and can also disrupt coral defense mechanisms.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateMay 5, 2022

Sunscreen doesn’t protect as well as it could: Here is what is missing

A new study at the University of Bath found that a key ingredient is missing from all sunscreens, leaving skin vulnerable to damage. The researchers identified iron-trapping extracts that can improve protection against UV rays and oxidative stress, reducing the risk of aging and cancer.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAntioxidants·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 12, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Sun protection knowledge, behaviors of US youth

A survey study of US youth aged 14-24 found that they understand the short-term risks of sun damage, yet experience high numbers of self-reported burns. Despite using sunscreen, nearly all participants reported skin injuries.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateNov 15, 2021

Some sunscreen mixtures lose effectiveness and become harmful during sun exposure

Researchers discovered that zinc oxide degrades other UV absorbers, reducing UVA protection by up to 91.8% after two hours of sunlight exposure. This could lead to increased formula toxicity and decreased sunscreen effectiveness, prompting calls for innovative new ingredients.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021

OSU study: After two hours, sunscreen that includes zinc oxide loses effectiveness, becomes toxic

A new OSU study reveals that sunscreen containing zinc oxide loses its effectiveness and becomes toxic after just two hours of exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The research used zebrafish to test the toxicity of photodegradation products, finding significant increases in defects in the fish.

SourceOregon State University·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Mixing mineral and chemical sunscreens may limit protection against UVA

Researchers found that combining zinc oxide with small-molecule UV filter ingredients reduced UVA protection by 84.3-91.8% compared to non-mineral sunscreens. The study also showed toxic effects on zebra fish embryos when exposed to sunscreen mixtures containing zinc oxide.

SourceSpringer·JournalPhotochemical & Photobiological Sciences·DateOct 13, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Corals' natural 'sunscreen' may help them weather climate change

Researchers studied blue rice corals, which produce a natural sunscreen pigment that may help them recover from bleaching and thrive in warmer oceans. This discovery sheds light on how some coral species can better withstand climate change and ocean warming.

SourceSmithsonian National Zoological Park·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 9, 2021

Everything you want to know about sunscreen

Sunscreen reduces skin cancer risk by blocking solar radiation; use of sunscreen is crucial beyond just sun protection, also for premature aging prevention.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateDec 14, 2020

No nanoparticle risks to humans found in field tests of spray sunscreens

A Penn State research team conducted field tests on three commonly used mineral-based aerosol sunscreens, finding trace nanoparticles but at safe levels. The study suggests that the canister design and active ingredients are unlikely to produce vastly different amounts of nanoparticles.

SourcePenn State·JournalAerosol Science and Technology·DateDec 2, 2020

Study reveals new findings on nature's UV sunscreens

A new study by Swansea University scientists has found that mycosporine-like amino acids, nature's UV sunscreens, are increased when exposed to far-red light. This discovery challenges current understanding of their role in temperature regulation and environmental balance.

SourceSwansea University·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Common sunscreen ingredients prove dangerous for freshwater ecosystems

Research by University of Alberta biologists reveals that common sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone, are detrimental to freshwater-dwelling crustaceans like the water flea Daphnia magna. Long-term exposure can be lethal, even at short distances from popular beach areas.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateSep 2, 2020

Study shows biocell collagen ingestion reduced signs of UVB-induced photoaging

A new study published in Journal of Functional Foods finds that daily BioCell Collagen ingestion reduces wrinkles, increases skin elasticity, and maintains hyaluronic acid content in humans. The supplement's unique matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II peptides, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid helps combat UVB-induced photoaging.

SourceMWWPR·JournalJournal of Functional Foods·DateMay 4, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

'Flamenco dancing' molecule could lead to better-protecting sunscreen

Researchers have discovered a molecule that absorbs ultraviolet light and then disperses it in a 'flamenco-style' dance, making it ideal for use as a UV filter in sunscreens. The molecule is eco-friendly, easy to synthesize, and lasts longer than industry-standard sunscreens.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 18, 2019

Green chemists find a way to turn cashew nut shells into sunscreen

A team of green chemists from the University of the Witwatersrand has developed a sustainable method to produce potential sunscreens using cashew nut shells. The new aromatic compounds show good UVA and UVB absorbance, protecting humans, livestock, and polymers from harmful sun rays.

SourceUniversity of the Witwatersrand·JournalEuropean Journal of Organic Chemistry·DateAug 15, 2019

Sunscreens release metals and nutrients into seawater

Sunscreens release aluminum, silica, and phosphorous into seawater after UV treatment, potentially harming marine ecosystems. On a typical summer day at the beach, beachgoers could increase coastal waters' aluminum levels by 4% and titanium by almost 20%

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 14, 2019
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

#BeatEngland, beat sunburn

A new type of UV detection sticker has been shown to effectively remind people to reapply sunscreen during outdoor events. The study found that 80% of participants with the stickers reapplied sunscreen within a day, compared to 68% in the control group. The stickers were well-received by fans and may help reduce sunburn cases in Queens...

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalPreventive Medicine·DateJul 12, 2019

Pinterest homemade sunscreens: A recipe for sunburn

A study found that nearly all Pinterest pins for homemade sunscreens positively portrayed their effectiveness but offered insufficient UV radiation protection. The researchers emphasized the importance of using commercially sold and regulated sunscreen products to protect against skin cancer.

SourceNationwide Children's Hospital·JournalHealth Communication·DateMay 20, 2019

Does sunscreen compromise vitamin D levels?

Researchers found that using high UVA protection factor sunscreen allows for better vitamin D synthesis due to increased UVB transmission. Despite concerns, optimal sunscreen use does not harm vitamin D production, according to a new study published in the British Journal of Dermatology.

SourceWiley·JournalBritish Journal of Dermatology·DateMay 9, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.