What did people use before sunscreen? The invention of sunscreen as we know it today is a relatively recent development, but throughout history, humans have always sought ways to protect their skin from the harmful rays of the sun. Before the advent of commercial sunscreens, people relied on a variety of natural and homemade remedies to shield themselves from the sun’s damaging effects.
One of the earliest methods used to protect skin from the sun was the application of natural oils. Olive oil, for instance, was a popular choice due to its moisturizing properties and natural SPF. Ancient Egyptians even used a mixture of olive oil and beeswax to create a protective barrier against the sun’s rays. Similarly, the ancient Greeks and Romans would apply olive oil, sesame oil, or almond oil to their skin to prevent sunburn.
Another common practice was the use of natural minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These minerals have natural SPF properties and were ground into a fine powder to be applied to the skin. The Maori people of New Zealand, for example, would use a mixture of zinc oxide and kiwi fruit to create a sunscreen. In addition, the indigenous people of the Amazon rainforest would apply a paste made from the leaves of the acai berry to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Historical texts also mention the use of plants and herbs to create natural sunscreens. For instance, the ancient Greeks would use a mixture of lavender, mint, and rosemary to create a sunscreen. Similarly, the indigenous people of Central and South America would use a paste made from the leaves of the cacao tree to protect their skin from the sun.
While these natural remedies provided some level of protection, they were not as effective as modern sunscreens. As a result, people often suffered from sunburns, skin damage, and even skin cancer. It wasn’t until the 20th century that scientists began to develop synthetic sunscreens, which offered a higher level of protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Today, we have a wide range of sunscreens available on the market, offering various SPF levels and ingredients to suit different skin types and needs. However, it’s important to remember that the use of natural remedies to protect the skin from the sun dates back thousands of years, highlighting the ingenuity and resourcefulness of our ancestors.
