Chemical SPFs and Rising Public Awareness

1969

Swimwear with “tan-through” fabric was invented: Its fabric was perforated with tiny holes that allowed UV rays to penetrate, thereby avoiding tan lines.

1960s-1970s

Franz Greiter—the Austrian chemistry student, now a professor—introduced the concept of SPF, as well as formulas for broad-spectrum sunscreens that absorb both UVA and UVB rays.

1970s

Malibu Barbie hit stores with a tan and sunglasses. In a recent reproduction of the original Malibu Barbie, she has a little bottle of SPF30.

In-home tanning beds came on the market, and tanning salons grew in popularity. They have now been outlawed for commercial use in countries including Brazil and Australia.

1977

The first water-resistant sunscreens were introduced.

1978

The F.D.A. introduced regulations regarding the safety and effectiveness of sun protection products. Their guidance recognized that “sun-tanning is not good for the skin.”

1979

The Skin Cancer Foundation was founded, and it started marketing the importance of SPF, with SPF15 as a minimum. It soon convened a World Congress on Cancers of the Skin, which continues to be held around the world.