Biodegradable Hyperbranched Polyesters as Scaffolds for Next-Generation Sunscreens

Melanoma skin cancer is the 5th most prevalent carcinoma in the UK. Sun protection is a growing world market with more and more consumers utilising sun protection products both while sunbathing or as part of their daily routine against harmful UV radiation. Apply-once protection agents rely upon organic UV absorbers which are under legislative pressure due to their permeation within the skin and their environmental impact. Hawaii has outlawed the most damaging protection agents from formulations with many other territories reviewing their use. By attaching these UV absorbers to pre-formed, bio-sourced and bio-derived polymers the negative impact of these effective agents can be mitigated. This offering will allow the high value speciality polymer additive industry to build-back better with a unique offering to the world marketplace.