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Testing UV Shields: A Quantitive Study of Skin Protection

CSEF · 2026 Materials Science (Junior Division)

Pihul Kanungo

Overview

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a significant contribute to photoaging and increases the risk of skin cancer. Effective photoprotection strategies are therefore essential. My study evaluated the UV blocking performance of different sunscreens and fabrics, and examined how SPF level, fabric color, and fabric type influence UV attenuation. I compared mineral and chemical sunscreens at SPF 30 and SPF 50, and I also tested cotton and polyester fabrics in black and white. UV intensity was quantified using a UV meter by placing sunscreen samples and fabric samples between the UV source and detector under natural sunlight and a UV lamp. Results indicated that Higher SPF sunscreens consistently provided stronger protection, with mineral sunscreen showing slightly superior UV attenuation compared to chemical sunscreen. Dark-colored fabrics exhibited substantially greater UV-blocking capability than light-colored fabrics, and polyester outperformed cotton in reducing UV transmission. Overall, the findings demonstrate that both textile characteristics and sunscreen formulation significantly affect UV protection and can inform evidence based choices to minimize harmful UV exposure.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2026 Materials Science (Junior Division) · Entry J-13-04

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