UV Absorbers

It is widely known that ultraviolet (UV) rays are linked with skin cancer and the aging of the skin. Cosmetics and personal care products with UV filters, including sunscreen, are widely used to protect the skin, while helping to maintain people’s health.

UV filters used in these products are divided into two groups: UV absorbers and UV scattering agents. UV absorbers absorb UV and convert it into heat or other forms of energy to prevent UV from penetrating into skin. UV scattering agents scatter and reflect UV on the surface of the agents, preventing UV from reaching skin cells.

There are concerns that certain UV absorbers may cause bleaching and other problems of corals in the ocean, and regulations banning sunscreens containing these UV absorbers have been adopted in the state of Hawaii, and some other areas. On the other hand, it is thought that the main causes of coral growth inhibition and bleaching are ocean warming and acidification caused by climate change. Research and discussions on the impact on coral reefs are still ongoing.

Kao complies with the laws and regulations of all countries and regions in which we operate. Additionally, we conduct rigorous safety assessments and perform a wide range of product-use tests based on the Kao Safety Standards^* , so that you can use our products safely. We continuously explore new scientific findings relevant to the ingredients we use and review the safety of our in-market products. We are committed to continuing to develop our products for a better customer experience and increased product safety.

We offer UV absorber-free products for those who prefer them.