The leaves are changing color and the days are getting shorter, but as any skincare expert or outdoor enthusiast will tell you, sunscreen is important for protection from ultraviolet (UV) radiation year-round. Unfortunately, some sunscreen ingredients can have negative effects on human and environmental health. Recent research shows that lignin, a component of wood with UV-absorbing properties, is a promising non-toxic alternative to these chemicals. Blending lignin with commercial sunscreens could reduce the amount of synthetic chemicals needed while enhancing UV protection for our skin.
This information is courtesy of the Forest Products Laboratory of the US Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Click here to read more. The photo is courtesy of Joe Shlabotnik via CC BY 2.0