"Sun protection has transformed from ancient beauty rituals using rice bran to a multifunctional skincare and broad-spectrum UV defense."   Have you ever wondered where it all began? A article in JAMA Dermatology gives us a fascinating look at the evolution of sun protection — from ancient rituals to modern science. - Ancient Wisdom: Before We Knew What UV Was Long before ultraviolet radiation was discovered, ancient cultures were already protecting their skin from the sun: Egyptians used rice bran, jasmine, and lupine — ingredients now known to have UV-absorbing or skin-repairing properties Greeks applied olive oil — not UV-protective, but hydrating Native American tribes used Tsuga canadensis (pine needles) to soothe sunburns Interestingly, their motivations were mostly cosmetic — lighter skin was often associated with beauty and class. - The Turning Point: The Discovery of UV 1801: Johann Wilhelm Ritter discovered UV radiation 1878: Otto Veiel identified tannins as potential sun-blocking agents 1920s: Scientists determined which UV wavelengths cause sunburn 1935: Eugène Schueller (founder of L’Oréal) created Ambre Solaire, the first modern sunscreen, using benzyl salicylate By 1978, the U.S. FDA  officially recognized sunscreens as scientifically regulated skincare essentials. - And Now? Today’s sunscreens are far more than UV shields — they’re multifunctional skincare. They hydrate, brighten, soothe, and protect from pollution, all while defending against UV damage. - UVELLA’s Tribute to History At UVELLA, we’re proud to continue the legacy of sun protection — bridging ancient botanicals and modern science. We draw inspiration from both tradition and innovation to bring you: Broad-spectrum SPF that feels invisible on skin Antioxidant-rich formulas that support long-term skin health A philosophy that treats sun care as self-care — not a chore Scientific Reference Aldahan A.S., Shah V.V., Mlacker S., & Nouri K. (2015). The History of Sunscreen. JAMA Dermatology, 151(12), 1316. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamadermatol.2015.3011 Reviewed by:Jungyoon Ohn, MD, PhDBoard-Certified Dermatologist

"UVA rays still pass through side glass, they cause cumulative damage and a higher rate of skin cancer on the exposed driver's side."   Most of us wear sunscreen when we're out and about. But what about when we’re just driving? A study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that only 27% of people wear sunscreen while in a car — even though more than half wear it regularly on other days. Why? Because many believe car windows block UV rays. Unfortunately, that’s not entirely true. - UV Rays.... UVA rays, which cause aging and DNA damage, can penetrate glass. While your windshield blocks most UVB (burning) rays, side windows don’t stop UVA effectively. This means your driver-side face, arm, and hand are consistently exposed to UV damage. The study even found a higher rate of skin cancers on the left side (driver’s side) of the body. - Common Misconceptions “I don’t need sunscreen when I’m in the car.”→ False. UVA still gets through the glass. “The windows are closed, so I’m protected.”→ Glass stops wind — not UV rays. “I’m only driving for a few minutes.”→ Sun damage is cumulative. Even 10–15 minutes a day adds up. - What You Can Do Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ every morning — even on commute days. Focus on driver-side areas (face, neck, hands, arms). Reapply if you’re in the car for extended periods. - UVELLA’s Take At UVELLA, we believe sun protection should be daily, effortless, and complete. That’s why our sunscreens are crafted to feel like skincare — lightweight, invisible, and easy to apply, even on busy mornings when you’re just headed out for errands or a short drive. Scientific Reference Kim D.P., Levy R.M., & Draelos Z.D. (2013). Sunscreen use while driving. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 68(6), 952–956.  Reviewed by:Jungyoon Ohn, MD, PhDBoard-Certified Dermatologist

"Even brief UV exposure causes cellular damage and stress in unprotected skin" "Harmful changes occur even when there is no visible sunburn or redness." We know sunscreen protects our skin from burns. But what about the invisible damage — at the cellular level? A study in JAMA Dermatology explored that question by examining what happens to moles when only half of them are covered in sunscreen and then exposed to UV radiation. Each mole was half protected and then exposed to simulated sunlight. - The Study Design Researchers selected 26 patients with benign moles. On each mole: One half was covered with sunscreen The other half was left unprotected Both halves were then exposed to solar-simulated UV light The moles were analyzed on microscopic examination. - What They Found The unprotected halves had: More visible redness and pigment More atypical melanocytes  Stronger cellular stress Even brief sun exposure without sunscreen can lead to microscopic cellular damage. - Why This Matters We often judge sun protection by whether we get a sunburn — but this study shows that cellular changes can occur even without visible redness. Skin remembers UV damage, even when you don’t feel it. - UVELLA’s Science-Driven Approach At UVELLA, we believe in preventing the damage you can’t see. That’s why we design sunscreens with: Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB) High SPF for deep defense Antioxidants to neutralize cellular stress Scientific Reference Massone C., Wolf P., Gringschl S., et al. (2013). Effects of a chemical sunscreen on UV-induced changes of different histological features in melanocytic nevi. JAMA Dermatology, 149(7), 874–875.  Reviewed by:Jungyoon Ohn, MD, PhDBoard-Certified Dermatologist

"A well-formulated SPF can both protect against UV rays and serve as a daily moisturizer."   We all know sunscreen protects skin from UV rays — but what if it could also help keep your skin hydrated? Modern SPF formulas now do more than protect; they also moisturize. - Sunscreen That Hydrates? Yes, It’s Real. A 2013 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology explored whether sunscreen could double as a moisturizer. Researchers compared: SPF 30 and SPF 50 lotions containing humectants vs. SPF 30 spray without humectants - What They Found Lotions with humectants showed significantly greater hydration at 4 and 8 hours. - Conclusion A well-formulated sunscreen can act as both sun protection and a daily moisturizer. - Why This Matters Many people skip sunscreen because they think it’s drying or chalky. But with the right ingredients — like humectants — sunscreen can: Hydrate dry or sun-damaged skin Improve skin texture and suppleness over time Replace a separate morning moisturizer in your routine - UVELLA’s Perspective At UVELLA, we believe sunscreen should feel like skincare — never a chore. Our daily SPF formulas are designed to protect, nourish, and restore with ingredients such as: Humectants for deep, lasting hydration Niacinamide to support the skin barrier Antioxidants to defend against everyday environmental stressors Scientific Reference Pinca R., Bansback N., & Kalia S. (2013). Enhancing skin hydration with topical sunscreen formulations. J Am Acad Dermatol. 68(4 Suppl):AB184. Reviewed by:Jungyoon Ohn, MD, PhDBoard-Certified Dermatologist