Launch of the POLYCLAY-UV Research Project: Innovative Skin Protection against UV Radiation

On 9 December, a project filming day took place at LBTU, during which the initial stages of project implementation, the research environment, applied methods, and key laboratory processes were documented. The collected material will be used to produce an informational video presenting the project launch, its objectives, and its relevance to society.

Scientific Background and Research Approach

The POLYCLAY-UV project focuses on the development of multifunctional clay–polyphenol composite materials based on naturally derived raw materials. Particular attention is given to the extraction of polyphenols from by-products of the food and beverage industry, including used tea leaves and coffee grounds. This approach supports resource reuse and the implementation of circular economy principles.

The research will investigate the stabilization of polyphenols within the structure of clay minerals, assess the UV-protective effectiveness of the developed composite materials, and analyse their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the safety of the materials will be tested using skin cell models, and the first cosmetic prototypes will be developed to demonstrate their practical application in sun protection products.

Impact of UV Radiation on Skin Health and the Need for New Protective Solutions

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in modern society, with approximately 90% of cases closely linked to UV-induced cellular damage. Dermatologists emphasize the use of SPF products as one of the most effective ways to reduce UV-related harm and the risk of skin cancer. As a result, sun protection is no longer relevant only during the summer season – UV filters are increasingly becoming a routine component of daily skincare.

The sun care cosmetics market is experiencing rapid growth, driven by changing consumer habits and increasing awareness of the effects of UV radiation on skin health and premature ageing. Today, UV filters are used not only in traditional sunscreens but also in facial and body cosmetics, decorative cosmetics, serums, lip balms, and even hair care products, making this segment one of the fastest-growing areas in the beauty industry.

At the same time, approximately 80% of sun care products contain synthetic UV filters. While effective, these filters may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and in some cases enter the bloodstream, potentially affecting the endocrine system. Moreover, synthetic UV filters pose a significant environmental burden: when released into aquatic ecosystems, they harm marine organisms, contribute to coral bleaching, and accumulate in the environment. Mineral filters are considered more environmentally friendly, but they are often perceived by users as less pleasant to apply. Therefore, there is a clear need for new solutions that provide natural, multifunctional, effective, and user-friendly UV protection.

About the POLYCLAY-UV Research Project

The video materials recorded during the project filming day will be available in January 2026 on the BioPhoT project website: https://www.biophot.lv

Updates on project progress, achieved results, and upcoming activities will also be shared on LinkedIn under POLYCLAY-UV.

The project is implemented within the framework of the Long-Term National Research Programme "Innovation Fund – Long-Term Research Programme", platform application No. IVPP-EM-Inovācija-2024/1-0002, as part of the project "Biomedical and Photonics Research Platform for Innovative Products (BioPhoT)".

Platform project number: PIP_BioPhoT-2025/1-0065