UV filter market is anticipated to grow at a significant CAGR of 6.2% during the forecast period (2024-2031). The market growth is attributed to the growing awareness of the damaging effects of UV radiation on human health such as skin cancer, early aging, and other skin-related issues. UV filters are materials that shield the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet light. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the US. It is estimated that approximately 9,500 people in the US are diagnosed with skin cancer every day. It is estimated that 200,340 new cases of melanoma, 99,700 noninvasive (in situ) and 100,640 invasive, will be diagnosed in the US in 2024. The majority of melanoma cases are attributable to UV exposure.

Market Dynamics

Growing UV Filter Use in Electronic Devices to Protect Screens from UV Damage

In recent years, ultraviolet filters have been found in a growing number of electronic devices, including laptops and smartphones. These filters are intended to shield screens from UV radiation's damaging effects. Radiation, which is found in sunshine and other light sources, can harm a screen over time, leading to problems such as color distortion and decreased visibility. UV filters function by letting visible light through while preventing dangerous UV rays. This prolongs the device's life and lowers the possibility of screen damage. While some electronic devices have UV filters built right in, others require users to buy additional filters to stick on the screen.

Encapsulating Techniques Integration in Sunscreens to Improve Efficacy and Safety

The encapsulating techniques already employed in numerous commercially available formulations, including methacrylate polymers (PMMA), the encapsulation techniques offer innovative, safe, and environmentally friendly sunscreens. By utilizing organic and inorganic filters, one can guard against the impacts of infrared radiation, as well as UV and visible light. Skin photoaging has long been linked to near-infrared light, or NIR. The researcher measured the UVA protection factor in vitro according to ISO guidelines, and the results demonstrated the high level of efficacy of tinted sunscreens against UV and visible radiation. The average transmittance of radiation in the 760–1300 nm region is reduced by 40–50% due to their absorption spectra, which reach wavelengths up to 1300 nm.

Market Segmentation

• Based on the filter type, the market is segmented into organic, and inorganic.

• Based on the end-users, the market is segmented into skincare, hair care, and others (medical, sunscreens, photography).

Organic is Projected to Exhibit Significant Growth

Organic UV filter substances function as UV absorbers and are found in sunscreens and other personal care products. Originating from chemical molecules, their mechanism of action involves absorbing UV light before it reaches the skin. As they do not cause a white cast on the skin and are more effective at absorbing a wider range of UV radiation, organic filters are recommended over inorganic ones. Additionally, they are less prone to break down and are more stable when exposed to UV light. Numerous items, such as lotions, creams, sprays, and cosmetics, include organic UV minerals. For instance, in September 2023, BASF introduced a new sunscreen ingredient TinomaxTM CC. The TinomaxTM CC meets a growing demand for multifunctional solutions with improved SPF and UVA protection. The Recommended for formulations containing organic soluble UV filters and those containing particles dispersed in the oil phase, Tinomax CC contributes to a significant improvement in sensorial performance, especially at higher SPFs.

Skin Care Segment to Hold a Considerable Market Share

UV filters offer several skincare benefits while preventing sunburn. The combination of these advantages presents an exciting opportunity for the facial care sector by adding UV filters to products that customers use regularly. For instance, in March 2023, Royal DSM, a purpose-led science-based company, introduced PARSOL® DHHB an efficient UVA filter that also contributes to SPF protection. It is compatible with all UVB filters on the market and is compatible with zinc oxide and iron oxides, which makes it fit for purpose in hybrid formulations.  

Regional Outlook

The global UV filter market is further segmented based on geography including North America (the US, and Canada), Europe (the UK, Italy, Spain, Germany, France, and the Rest of Europe), Asia-Pacific (India, China, Japan, South Korea, and Rest of Asia-Pacific), and the Rest of the World (the Middle East & Africa, and Latin America). 

Growing Demand for UV Filters in North America

• The regional growth is attributed to the growing demand for UV filters is expected to rise owing to growing concerns about skin cancer and other skin-related diseases. Marketing campaigns, advertisements, and an increase in the demand for cosmetics drive the growth of UV filters in the region. According to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD), in November 2022, currently, there are 17 US UV filters. Almost all US filters possessed sensitization data (94.0%, 16/17) with the majority (76.0%, 13/17) showing minimal skin sensitization.

Global UV Filter Market Growth by Region 2024-2031

Europe Holds Major Market Share

Europe holds a significant share owing to the presence of UV filter market players such as BASF SE, Croda International Plc, Koninklijke DSM N.V., L’Oréal S.A and Symrise AG in the region. The increasing awareness about the harmful effects of UV rays on the skin and the rising incidence of skin cancer has been the key driver of the market growth in the region. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), The European Union (EU) regulates sunscreens as cosmetics, which allows more flexibility in which active ingredients sunscreen manufacturers can use to protect against UVA rays. The EU has 34 UV filters approved for use in sunscreens, compared to 16 in the US. The sun filters have insufficiently protected skin against ultra-long UVA rays. These long UVA rays penetrate the epidermis the most and are among the main causes of skin aging. For instance, in May 2022, L'Oréal introduced UVMune 400 its sun filtering technology that effectively protects the skin against insidious ultra-long UVA rays. L'Oréal helps prevent sun-induced deep skin damage, which is a major public health issue. UVMune 400 is available in the La Roche-Posay Anthelios franchise, the first brand of the Group to use this powerful technology.

Market Players Outlook

*Note: Major Players Sorted in No Particular Order.

The major companies serving the UV filter market include BASF SE, Evonik Industries AG, L’Oréal S.A, The Dow Chemical Co., and Unilever PLC among others. The market players are increasingly focusing on business expansion and product development by applying strategies such as collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions to stay competitive in the market. 

Recent Development

• In March 2023, Symrise introduced SymEffect UV and expanded its functional portfolio. The synergistic mixture of renewable ingredients enhances the effectiveness of organic and mineral UV filters. With this product launch, Symrise is responding to the trend towards sustainable sun care.

The Report Covers

• Market value data analysis of 2023 and forecast to 2031.
• Annualized market revenues ($ million) for each market segment.
• Country-wise analysis of major geographical regions.
• Key companies operating in the UV filter market. Based on the availability of data, information related to new products, and relevant news is also available in the report.
• Analysis of business strategies by identifying the key market segments positioned for strong growth in the future.
• Analysis of market-entry and market expansion strategies.
• Competitive strategies by identifying ‘who-stands-where’ in the market.