Held every two years in London, the Sun Protection Conference has long stood as a meeting of minds for those at the forefront of innovation, regulation, and education in UV protection. In its 34th year, 2025 brought together scientists, dermatologists, public health leaders and industry experts for two days of rigorous discussion and reflection. Our Account Head of R&D, Roger Rowson, was in attendance to hear first-hand the pressing concerns and opportunities shaping the future of sun care. 

Beyond the science, the packed schedule created space to give a voice to those directly affected. Delegates listened to moving accounts from individuals living with advanced melanoma, reframing the conversation to include quality of life rather than solely focussing on survival rates. There was also powerful insight into the work of initiatives like Beyond Suncare in Tanzania, which supports people with albinism whose lives depend on daily sun protection.

The science itself continues to evolve. A key focus this year was the introduction of two new ISO standards offering alternative SPF test methods. This represents major progress that we hope will help bring greater consistency and consumer confidence in how sunscreens are labelled and trusted globally. These advances were discussed alongside some of the major obstacles facing the category today: from increasing regulatory restrictions on UV filters, to the resulting formulation challenges we face as cosmetic scientists and the limits it places on innovation.

Environmental concerns were also a hot topic, with experts exploring the complexity of assessing the ecological impact of sunscreen ingredients. In one panel discussion, experts were asked to identify the biggest challenge facing the category in the years ahead and the consensus clear: social media and the spread of misinformation pose the most significant threat to public understanding and trust in sun protection .And, in a thought-provoking shift from the usual narrative, discussions looked at both the risks and benefits of sun exposure, encouraging nuanced debate and underlining the need for balance in public health messaging. 

Further highlights included a dissection of Australia’s Slip, Slop, Slap and SunSmart initiative - one of the longest running and most successful skin cancer prevention programs in the world. These awareness campaigns that have been dedicated in engaging and educating communities, have helped transform national behaviours. The SunSmart program is estimated to have prevented more than 43,000 skin cancers between 1988 and 2011. Led by Professor Craig Sinclair, the impact of these campaigns over the past four decades is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when science, education and policy converge.

Thanks to Professor Paul Matts, the organisers of this conference and the speakers for making this such a thought-provoking few days.

You can read up on the trends we’re seeing in the Suncare category with our Suncare Report, which has been compiled by our Product Innovation team. You might also want to check our Sunless Tanning report, too which is also packed with insights, data and areas for growth.