When most brands think about sun protection, they picture beach holidays, tropical getaways, and hot summer days. And while this remains an important sales window, it’s also a crowded one, dominated by a predictable mix of high-SPF lotions and family-sized bottles.

The truth is consumers need sun protection far more often than they think. UVA rays, which contribute to premature skin ageing, penetrate clouds and glass, and are present at almost the same strength year-round. Even UVB rays, traditionally associated with summer burning, can be a risk in colder months, particularly at high altitudes or on reflective surfaces like snow and water.

For brands willing to think beyond seasonal launches, there is a clear opportunity to build product portfolios that meet daily, practical, and overlooked SPF needs which opens new revenue streams and deepening consumer loyalty.

Sports & Performance SPF: Meeting the Needs of the Active Consumer

Outdoor sport is a year-round activity. From marathon training in April drizzle to weekend cycling in frosty January air, UV exposure is a constant.

According to Global Marketing Insights, the sports sun care market was valued at USD 2.37 billion in 2023  and is projected to grow to USD 3.9 billion by 2033 (CAGR 5.1%).

Athletes whether they are professional or see it as a hobby, need:

• Sweat-resistant formulas that hold up during high exertion
• Non-slip textures that don’t affect grip on handlebars, rackets, or equipment
• Quick-apply formats like sticks or sprays for reapplication mid-activity
• Portable packaging that fits in a cycle jersey pocket or running belt

We approach product innovation in many ways, including functional design that matches the realities of sport. There’s also scope to integrate secondary benefits, such as anti-chafing or cooling effects.

Scalp Protection: Addressing the Market Blind Spot

The scalp is one of the most sun-exposed areas of the body, yet it’s often neglected in SPF routines. For those with thinning hair or bald spots, the risk of sunburn, and the discomfort and skin damage that comes with it, is high. 

Even consumers with full hair coverage have vulnerable areas along the parting or hairline.

Despite this, scalp-specific SPF remains rare. That’s surprising given the data:

• The hair and scalp sunscreen spray market was valued at USD 1.42 billion in 2024 and is expected to double by 2033 (CAGR ~8.7%).

Mineral-based powders and mists are gaining traction because they’re non-greasy, hairstyle-friendly, and easy to apply without mess. 

Here at THG LABS, our cosmetic scientists are developing scalp-compatible textures,, clear sprays that don’t leave residue, applicators that deliver precise coverage along partings or hairlines and mattifying SPF mists to reduce shine for bald heads.

This is a prime area for brand differentiation, especially for lines targeting men’s grooming, hair loss prevention, or outdoor lifestyle consumers.

 Urban SPF: Everyday Protection for Commuters

Urban living presents its own UV challenges. Short walks between transport links, lunch breaks outside, and even exposure through office windows all contribute to cumulative skin damage. Add the interaction between UV and urban pollution, and the argument for daily SPF becomes even stronger.

Consumers in this category want:

• Invisible, weightless formulas that absorb quickly as part of their morning routine and work under makeup or over skincare for top-ups during the day.
• Hybrid benefits that blend anti-pollution, hydrating, or priming effects alongside SPF
• Pocket-friendly sizes for on-the-go top-ups

This is also a high-potential market for male grooming brands that want to normalise SPF as part of a daily routine without framing it as a “beauty” product. 

Cold-Weather SPF: The Alpine and Winter Sport Opportunity

Lower temperatures don’t mean lower UV exposure. In fact, snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays, and UV levels increase by roughly 10% for every 1,000 metres above sea level. Skiers, snowboarders, hikers, and outdoor workers are at significant risk of both burns and long-term damage.

The winter SPF market is still underdeveloped, but consumer awareness is rising thanks to outdoor sports culture and social media. This is an opportunity for:

• Compact SPF sticks for jacket pockets
• Lip balms with SPF to protect against chapping and burning
• All-weather formulas that resist wind, cold, and sweat

Brands can also cross-sell cold-weather SPF outside the traditional summer peak.

Why This Matters for Brands

Shifting SPF from a summer-only to a year-round product strategy creates multiple benefits:

• Extended sales windows that smooth seasonal peaks and troughs
• Portfolio diversification addressing more consumer segments and use cases
• Building brand connection with products that fit into everyday life create consistent touchpoints, strengthening long-term engagement and loyalty.
• Innovation leadership by shaping the category and setting the pace with forward-thinking innovation that inspires the market.

THG Labs’ full-service beauty manufacturing capabilities, from R&D and packaging to compliance and production, brands can move quickly from concept to shelf, supported by regulatory expertise, artwork and testing facilities.

THG Labs Approach to SPF for All Seasons

Our teams specialise in SPF formats that meet the needs of every season and scenario, including:

• Sweat-proof sports formulations in practical sticks and sprays
• Scalp-focused products in mists, and non-greasy liquids
• Urban daily SPFs with hybrid skincare benefits
• Cold-weather solutions designed for high-altitude and reflective environments

We work with brands to develop bespoke formulations, choose sustainable packaging solutions, and ensure claims are both compelling and compliant.

If your SPF range only lives in summer, you’re missing the bigger picture.

Let’s create products that protect skin and grow your market share… 365 days a year.

Contact our team to explore year-round SPF opportunities.